Repurposing office space, densifying cities: This is how Switzerland wants to grow

A representative population survey, commissioned by the Migros Pioneer Fund and conducted by the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute (GDI), reveals how the Swiss population feels about construction, housing, and densification. It also shows under what conditions they would accept change.

What we have learned about housing in Switzerland

Three out of four people are satisfied with their housing situation. The main factors contributing to this satisfaction are having enough space at home, living in a good neighbourhood, and being able to stay long term. At the same time, many recognise that the way we live together must change in light of population growth. Around 40 per cent believe that our living and coexistence habits must change due to population growth. Another 40 percent agree with this to some extent.

Where change is possible

Densification is accepted when it takes place in cities, green spaces are preserved, and quality of life is visibly improved. Around 80 percent of the population consider densification to be a good measure against housing shortages, or at least partially good. Location is key: there is agreement that cities should absorb most of the population growth, followed by conurbations. Rural areas should be spared as much as possible. Concrete measures also find support:  around half of those surveyed are in favour of adding storeys or constructing taller apartment buildings. One third can even imagine their own building being extended, or a taller building being constructed nearby. People in cities are particularly willing to accept densification in their own neighbourhood.

Where are the boundaries?

People want to protect their private space. While proximity is welcome, it must not come at any price. Physical proximity is accepted, but shared use is not. Only around 15 percent would be willing to reduce their living space for shared use. The boundary of acceptance lies in private living space rather than building density.
“Densification is accepted above all where it is already part of the cityscape and is perceived as an improvement in quality,” says Dr Jakub Samochowiec, a senior researcher at the GDI.

Three tension fields

• Satisfaction vs change: People are content, yet they recognise that population growth requires new solutions.
• Density vs quality of life: Densification is accepted if it is environmentally friendly, high-quality and well integrated. It is rejected if it is perceived as a loss.
• Public vs private: Proximity is possible in public spaces. In private spaces, boundaries are quickly reached.