This thesis examines the potential of small, low-carbon, (near) zero-energy dwellings as a solution that would both address sustainability challenges and answer to the growing housing shortage in North-West Europe. It adopts a multidimensional outlook that encompasses institutional, social and technical aspects surrounding the dwellings. The institutional aspect is addressed through an investigation of financial, legislative, technical and cultural barriers to the implementation and uptake of...

This PhD thesis explores the evolving field of heritage planning, focusing on the cultural significance of heritage properties. It advocates for a value-based approach that recognizes the diverse perspectives of stakeholders, including experts, policymakers, and users. While participatory heritage aims to foster consensus-building, tensions may arise due to varying cultural significance conveyed by different stakeholder groups. Conventional research methods are time-consuming and costly, limi...

A housing shortage has been building up in the Netherlands in the last 30 years. Decreasing the housing shortage takes time, while people need a place to live now. Temporarily transforming vacant buildings into housing could reduce this need by providing the housing market with time to catch up. Can different user perspectives be included in housing design so all residents can easily make their home? A review of literature from housing studies, indoor environmental quality, architectural desi...