WieNeu+ a in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area Integrated urban renewal in Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt 2023–2025 City of Vienna wien.gv.at

2

Contents Introduction..................................................................................................................................... 7 About the report"Three years of WieNeu+ in Grätzl 20+2"................................................................... 7 Introductory remarks by Kathrin Gaál......................................................................................................... 9 Introductory remarks by Alexander Nikolai............................................................................................ 11 Introductory remarks by Christine Dubravac-Widholm....................................................................... 13 Foreword: Otto Eckl and Stephan Hartmann......................................................................................... 15 All about WieNeu+......................................................................................................................... 17 WieNeu+ in brief.......................................................................................................................................... 17 Claim& mission statement......................................................................................................................... 18 Core goals and messages........................................................................................................................... 19 Building upon the future.......................................................................................................................... 19 Shaping communities............................................................................................................................... 19 Fostering innovation................................................................................................ 19 Data, Facts& Figures 2023–2025............................................................................................................ 20 How does WieNeu+ work?............................................................................................................ 23 Management of existing building stock................................................................................................... 23 Coordination/network-building within the neighbourhood............................................................... 24 Consultations& events............................................................................................................................... 26 Participatory processes............................................................................................................................... 27 International networking and exchange...............................................................................................29 WieNeu+ funding channels........................................................................................................................ 31 "Grätzlförderung" funding makes buildings fit for the future! ..........................................................31 "Grätzlmarie", the WieNeu+ ideas fund.................................................................................................31 "Grätzlinitiative 20+2"..............................................................................................................................32 National and European funding .............................................................................................................32 The four pillars of the WieNeu+ programme................................................................................. 33 Buildings& energy....................................................................................................................................... 33 Community-building.................................................................................................................................... 34

Neighbourhood development................................................................................................................... 34 Knowledge and innovation management............................................................................................... 35 Monitoring.................................................................................................................................................. 36 Projects from the Buildings pillar................................................................................................... 37 Two WieNeu block renewal zones in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area........................................... 37 Key projects................................................................................................................................................38 Example project: Lessinggasse 19, 1020 Vienna .................................................................................38 Alliiertenviertel+........................................................................................................................................38 Evaluation: WieNeu Alliiertenviertel+ neighbourhood, January 2022 to September 2025 .......39 Alt-BrigitteNeu ..........................................................................................................................................39 Evaluation: WieNeu Alt-BrigitteNeu neighbourhood, January 2022 to September 2025 ........ 40 Project partners........................................................................................................................................ 40 Wiener Wohnen(municipal housing agency)......................................................................................... 41 The Wiener Wohnen WieNeu+ Coordination Point........................................................................... 41 Takeaways& challenges.......................................................................................................................... 41 Measures implemented by the City of Vienna – Wiener Wohnen ................................................... 41 20th district, Klosterneuburger Straße 99-105: Forecourt upgrade – unsealing& greening measures........................................................................................................................................................ 42 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................43 Draft design for"Klima*wandel*insel" – modular seating islands for the outdoor spaces of Vienna's municipal housing complexes.................................................................................................... 43 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................43 Decarbonisation of municipal housing in the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood" 44 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................44 " Retrofit Gemeindebau " – Wiener Wohnen in cooperation with TU Wien......................................... 45 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................46 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................46 Study: Taxonomie Konkret (Practical application of the EU Taxonomy criteria)............................... 47 EU context ..................................................................................................................................................47 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................48 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................48 Circular refurbishment: Hartlgasse 22(Sozialbau AG).......................................................................... 49

Core objectives of the study:..................................................................................................................49 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................50 Project partners..........................................................................................................................................51 Greening project: Am Tabor Lutheran Parish......................................................................................... 52 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................53 Nordwestbahnstraße 27, Schöberl& Pöll............................................................................................... 54 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................55 Communal greening project: rear courtyard, Gaußplatz 5.................................................................. 56 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................57 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................57 Projects from the Energy pillar...................................................................................................... 58 The Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood"........................................................................ 58 Building on change: working together for a sustainable future.......................................................62 Vienna's "climate pioneer neighbourhoods" and"Phasing Out Gas"..............................................63 Expansion of the district heating grid in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood ..............................64 "Climate-neutral Alliiertenviertel"study................................................................................................65 Pioneers of the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood.................................................................................66 Miesbachgasse anergy network(Sozialbau)........................................................................................... 67 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................69 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................70 Modernisation of building utilities: Ybbsstraße 6.................................................................................. 71 Takeaways & challenges...........................................................................................................................71 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................72 Anergy network start-up cells – ÖGUT.................................................................................................... 73 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................74 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................75 Alternative energy feasibility study: Castellezgasse 35-37, 1020 Vienna(commonhold association).................................................................................................................................................... 76 Takeaways & challenges..........................................................................................................................76 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................77 Projects from the Community-building pillar................................................................................ 78 Tenant empowerment................................................................................................................................. 78

Takeaways& challenges..........................................................................................................................79 Project partners.........................................................................................................................................79 Brigittenau Regional Waste Prevention Concept.................................................................................. 80 Takeaways & challenges......................................................................................................................... 80 The"Grätzlmarie" funding scheme........................................................................................................... 81 The "Grätzlmarie" scheme: data, facts& figures.................................................................................82 "Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on the Environment................................................................................ 84 Lessinggasse school beekeeping project .............................................................................................84 Volkertparadiso urban greening initiative ...........................................................................................85 SAMBA community garden.....................................................................................................................86 Biodiversity hedge‘Am Tabor’................................................................................................................87 StadtNatur Nordwest – educational activities around biodiversity and healthy eating............. 88 "Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on Mobility............................................................................................... 89 Lass dich gehen – initiative for pedestrians in the city .......................................................................89 "Wanderohrwaschln" – pop-up pavement extensions ......................................................................90 FrauenInFahrt women's cycling initiative ............................................................................................. 91 "Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on Awareness-Raising and Sustainability........................................... 92 Human library............................................................................................................................................92 Recipes for success...................................................................................................................................93 Computerg’schichten und Softwaresachen – free drop-in IT support............................................95 Clothing repair workshops ......................................................................................................................96 Gemeinsam klimafit – Community climate action – workshops for repair and design.................97 Grätzl-Blattl community newspaper......................................................................................................98 Carrots in Jars............................................................................................................................................99 Weniger Müll im Grätzl – awareness-raising activities for waste prevention ..............................100 Zukunft im Grätzl(community media project)"Community reporting: Where's the nearest bin?"............................................................................................................................................................ 101 Zukunft im Grätzl – energy conservation& waste prevention workshops .................................. 102 "Hunger to participate" community kitchen ...................................................................................... 103 Very Vacant_The Blank Space Within .................................................................................................104 "Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on Community-building....................................................................... 105 Frei-Tage street parties.......................................................................................................................... 105

Begegnung durch Bewegung – community sport& fitness activities .......................................... 107 VolkertKüche community kitchen........................................................................................................108 Women's plain language book club.....................................................................................................109 Gemeinsam statt einsam im Grätzl – neighbourhood community activities .................................110 Kaps-Gartl – community gardening at the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex .......111 Public open-air theatre performances................................................................................................. 112 "Karl-Petrasch" street party................................................................................................................... 113 "Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on Arts& Culture................................................................................... 114 FUTURE WORKS – creative urban design workshops......................................................................114 exhibition space in the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex............................115 "The Loud Spring" – film screening and discussion at the Knoten Wien community hub..........116 Beautii Klinik.............................................................................................................................................. 117 Birthday street party for Radio ORANGE 94.0...................................................................................118 Arts & culture programme in the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex ......................119 Projects from the Neighbourhood development pillar............................................................... 120 Cool Zones................................................................................................................................................... 120 Key messages from the supervisor feedback surveys ...................................................................... 121 Project upscaling..................................................................................................................................... 122 Takeaways & challenges........................................................................................................................ 122 Project partners....................................................................................................................................... 122 Volkert macht Blau – pilot project for climate adaptation measures................................................ 123 Takeaways & challenges........................................................................................................................ 124 Project partners....................................................................................................................................... 124 Grätzlinitiative 20+2 programme........................................................................................................... 125 Grätzliniative 20+2 – Funding............................................................................................................... 126 Grätzlinitiative 20+2 – Call for Projects............................................................................................... 126 crowd2raum ............................................................................................................................................. 129 Takeaways & challenges........................................................................................................................ 129 Project partners....................................................................................................................................... 130 Stadtkern_PLUS spatial design project.................................................................................................. 131 Project activities.......................................................................................................................................131 Takeaways & challenges........................................................................................................................ 132

Project partners....................................................................................................................................... 133 "Wiener Wäldchen" mini-woodlands project........................................................................................ 134 Takeaways & challenges........................................................................................................................ 135 Project partners....................................................................................................................................... 136 Städte.Gärten.Vielfalt(Cities.Gardens.Diversity)................................................................................. 137 Takeaways & challenges........................................................................................................................ 138 Project partners....................................................................................................................................... 138 The WieNeu+ project environment............................................................................................. 139 Programme partners................................................................................................................................. 139 Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal(MA 25)......................................................... 139 The journey continues................................................................................................................. 140 The new WieNeu+ programme areas, Hernals& Floridsdorf............................................................ 140 Get involved................................................................................................................................................ 142 Appendix...................................................................................................................................... 143 List of abbreviations& glossary.............................................................................................................. 143 Contact......................................................................................................................................... 149 Contact for enquiries about the report.................................................................................................. 149 Publishing details....................................................................................................................................... 149

Introduction About the report"Three years of WieNeu+ in Grätzl 20+2" Figure 1: The Grätzl 20+2 programme area© City of Vienna/MA 25 The report" Three years of WieNeu+ in Grätzl 20+2: Integrated urban renewal in Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau, 2023–2025 " showcases projects and activities implemented as part of the WieNeu+ urban renewal programme in the municipal districts of Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau. The Grätzl 20+2 neighbourhoods are the second to see the roll-out of the 7

WieNeu+ urban renewal programme, following Innerfavoriten in the 10th district(2021 to 2023). WieNeu+ generates important impulses for climate- and future-proof neighbourhoods, which immediately benefit local residents as well as making a long-term contribution to the positive development of the city as a whole. The programme focuses on the following key fields of activity: • Buildings& energy, • Community-building, and • Neighbourhood development. The above are backed up by a cross-cutting knowledge and innovation management segment to embed the resulting lessons and insights within the municipal administration and develop solutions for long-term implementation. WieNeu+ is a roll-out programme involving numerous stakeholders from the municipal administration and its associated enterprises as well as businesses, local initiatives and residents, who all work together to develop, pilot and implement forward-looking ideas for urban renewal. The Grätzl 20+2 programme area comprises the part of the 20th district bordered by the Danube Canal and Stromstraße together with the Volkertviertel and Alliiertenviertel neighbourhoods in the 2nd district, with Nordwestbahnstraße linking the two areas. The Volkertviertel, Alliiertenviertel and Wallensteinviertel neighbourhoods have a combined population of 44,000(as of 2021). The programme area is very densely built up, with a high population density, a characteristic late-19th-century built structure and a large number of municipal housing complexes from different periods. The existing building stock is in great need of refurbishment— particularly with regard to energy efficiency and climate change adaptation— and there are a number of challenges arising from the state of the buildings and their ownership structure. The WieNeu+ programme area Grätzl 20+2(as of 2021) • Area: 1.41 km 2 • Population: 44,000 residents • Population density: 30,496 residents/km 2 8

Introductory remarks by Kathrin Gaál Figure 2: Kathrin Gaál, Deputy Mayor and ECC for Housing, Urban Renewal and Women's Issues© WSW/David Bohmann Dear citizens of Vienna, For more than a century— since the interwar"Red Vienna" era— Vienna's focus has been on people and humanism. Affordable, high-quality housing remains the centrepiece of our vision of a liveable city to this very day. All international comparisons attest to the success of this policy, which has also delivered economic prosperity and climate-friendly development. For over 50 years now the City of Vienna has been committed to"gentle urban renewal", an approach that has earned it an internationally respected reputation. Here too, the focus is on people and local residents. The result is superlative quality of life and attractive living environments in a city that transforms and evolves, yet always remains liveable— and, above all, affordable. Thanks to this policy, dilapidated 19th-century apartment blocks now exude the feel-good factor and entire urban neighbourhoods have been transformed into vibrant places where communities come together. With WieNeu+, we're building on this successful trajectory— with innovative, climate-proof measures for the future. We're bringing people together, promoting new ideas and showcasing exemplary projects so that their reach and impact can extend far beyond the individual neighbourhood. Because climate change doesn't stop at the city boundaries. It has a huge impact on all spheres of life— and all of us can do our bit to make Vienna strong and resilient for generations to come. 9

Every WieNeu+ urban renewal project is a step in this direction: enhancing home comfort, creating greener courtyards and facades, improving the microclimate, and frequently also fostering social interaction— because attractive new shared spaces are places where people enjoy coming together. None of this happens by itself. That's why I'd again like to take this opportunity to say a special thank-you to everyone involved: to the WieNeu+ team, the Urban Renewal Office, the many stakeholders who roll out measures at neighbourhood level, and to the large numbers of local residents participating in"Grätzlmarie" projects to enhance quality of life in their neighbourhood for the benefit of the local community. This report on three years of WieNeu+ in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area in Vienna's municipal districts of Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt vividly illustrates how local dedication and drive bring about exemplary changes— and how they can provide impetus for the city as a whole. I hope you'll all find this report an inspiring read. Yours, Kathrin Gaál Deputy Mayor and Executive City Councillor for Housing, Urban Renewal and Women's Issues 10

Introductory remarks by Alexander Nikolai Figure 3: Alexander Nikolai, Chair of Leopoldstadt Municipal District Council(2nd district)© Astrid Knie Dear residents of Leopoldstadt, Dear residents of the neighbourhoods covered by the WieNeu+ 20+2 urban renewal programme, Since the launch of WieNeu+ in our district we've been placing an even stronger focus on community projects to make our neighbourhood climate-proof, attractive to live in and fit for the future. The programme area, which encompasses parts of both Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau, is a special place— not only on account of its history, but above all thanks to the people who live and work here. It's important to emphasise that urban renewal programmes only succeed if they actively bring local people on board. And that's precisely what WieNeu+ does. The"Grätzlmarie" scheme has already funded the implementation of lots of great ideas direct from the neighbourhood – from small-scale greening projects to community-building initiatives. And every single contribution shows just how much commitment and creativity there is here in our district. I'm especially pleased that the programme isn't just about building and energy-related issues, but also covers shared spaces. Greened inner courtyards, cool zones for hot summer days or new opportunities for local shops – they all make our neighbourhood a more pleasant place to live. Another special focus is the Alliiertenviertel climate pioneer neighbourhood. Another special focus is the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood", where measures are piloted to show how we can actively prepare our urban districts to meet the challenges ahead. The Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood thus serves as a model for climate- and future-proof urban design. 11

The Grätzl 20+2 programme area is an impressive demonstration of what is possible when the municipal administration, experts and— first and foremost— local residents, all act in unison. Together we're making life in our district even pleasanter, which in turn will bring joy for generations to come. With best regards, Alexander Nikolai Chair of Leopoldstadt Municipal District Council(2nd district) 12

Introductory remarks by Christine DubravacWidholm Figure 4: Christine Dubravac-Widholm, Chair of Brigittenau Municipal District Council(20th district) Dear residents of Brigittenau, Dear neighbours in the area covered by the WieNeu+ 20+2 urban renewal programme, Brigittenau is a diverse, lively district— and that's exactly what makes it so special. WieNeu+ gives us the chance to work together to make our neighbourhood even greener, more climateproof and attractive to live in. What's especially important to me is that urban renewal here isn't a top-down exercise, but starts at grassroots level with you, the people living in the district. Lots of great ideas have already been implemented under the"Grätzlmarie" scheme: small-scale greening projects, community-building measures and shared public spaces. Every single initiative shows just how much commitment and creativity there is in our neighbourhood. A particular focal point is the neighbourhood between the Danube Canal and Stromstraße, where we're piloting ways of making our urban districts fit for the future. In the long term, the experience gained there will benefit us all. One practical example are the"Cool Zones" we've created, starting at the Senior Citizens' Club in Greiseneckergasse and successfully continued with another at the Brigittenau Municipal Offices. 13

I'm delighted that here in Brigittenau we're pulling together as a team, working with experts and above all with local residents. In doing so we're creating a neighbourhood where we all feel good today— and one that will likewise be appreciated by generations to come. Warmest regards, Christine Dubravac-Widholm Chair of Brigittenau Municipal District Council(20th district) 14

Foreword: Otto Eckl and Stephan Hartmann Figure 5:(l. to r.) Stephan Hartmann(DH MA 25, WieNeu+ Programme Manager), Otto Eckl(Head of MA 25)© City of Vienna/Markus Wache Urban renewal as a key future endeavour The WieNeu+ urban renewal programme is implemented under the auspices of the Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal(MA 25), which for many years now has been overseeing numerous innovative, exemplary projects that have significantly shaped the ongoing development of Vienna's policy of gentle urban renewal. In the WieNeu+ programme the City of Vienna purposely cooperates with a large number of private stakeholders, including on projects and issues that we can't always roll out alone or have 100% control over. This allows the municipal administration to take a highly proactive approach to many developments in our city, establishing a strong presence in local neighbourhoods and collaborating intensively with large numbers of people. This is one of the reasons behind Vienna's existing high quality of life, the quality of our historic building stock that has evolved over the years, and— last but not least— the community cohesion and interaction in our city. The Grätzl 20+2 programme area in the districts of Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt is another impressive demonstration of how WieNeu+ generates momentum on multiple levels, in housing refurbishment projects focussed on clean energy and climate-proofing as well as in active engagement and involvement of local residents. It's not just about joining in, but about co-shaping developments. To date, feedback from stakeholders has allowed us to identify the following value-added factors derived from the WieNeu+ programme: 15

• Support for municipal and private measures, and paving the way for additional measures that wouldn't have happened otherwise • Additional resources for the local neighbourhood thanks to federal subsidies and municipal funds • Direct contact with local residents and an interface to/between local stakeholders • Opportunity to pilot measures associated with various departments and remits of the City of Vienna(see Phasing Out Gas"pioneer neighbourhoods", Cool Zones, Grätzlinitiative 20+2— Call for Projects) We'd like to express our thanks to everyone involved in this success story, whether their contribution is large or small. This report summarises the past three years of intensive activity by the WieNeu+ team in the"Grätzl 20+2" programme area— we hope you'll find it interesting reading! At the end of the day, WieNeu+ is about something of essential importance to us all: our home and our living environment. Frequently, the key is to find smart ways of combining technical and social aspects: WieNeu+ is an impressive demonstration of how this can be done. Otto Eckl Head of Department City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal(MA 25) Stephan Hartmann Deputy Head of Department Programme Manager WieNeu+ and Special Projects 16

All about WieNeu+ WieNeu+ in brief Launched in 2021, WieNeu+ is a ten-year urban renewal programme of the City of Vienna that is being rolled out in selected urban neighbourhoods("Grätzl"). For more than 50 years now, the City of Vienna has been pursuing an integrated urban renewal strategy aimed at regeneration of the existing urban structure. The objective is to enhance residents' quality of life and increase the attractiveness of local neighbourhoods. WieNeu+ focuses on climate-friendly, future-proof measures that improve climate resilience and help foster positive social and economic development. These include refurbishment of buildings as well as the roll-out of innovative energy solutions and the creation of green oases and outdoor spaces. Special emphasis is also placed on measures to support the local economy and promote community interaction within the neighbourhood. With this in mind, local residents are systematically brought on board and involved in these processes of change. The neighbourhood is considered in its entirety, promoting as well as utilising synergies between the individual fields of activity. The WieNeu+ programme was launched in the Innerfavoriten neighbourhood of Vienna's 10th district(Favoriten) in early 2021. 1 In January 2023 the second WieNeu+ programme area, Grätzl 20+2, was added, this time cutting across the two municipal districts of Brigittenau and 1 WieNeu+ was created as a follow-up to the EU project"Smarter Together – Gemeinsam g’scheiter"(2016–2021), which likewise implemented innovative energy solutions and refurbishment projects in combination with intensive involvement of local residents. The difference is that"Smarter Together" made use of EU funding, whereas WieNeu+ is run and funded by the City of Vienna. Cf. www.smartertogether.at . 17

Leopoldstadt. The preparatory phase for the third programme area in Hernals(17th municipal district) got under way back in mid-2025. Innovative solutions are funded, implemented and scientifically monitored for the long-term use and benefit of the City of Vienna. The key fields of activity are: • Buildings& energy : exemplary use of new technologies with a view to achieving net zero. • Community-building : activating participation promotes needs-based development of future-proof solutions. • Neighbourhood development& public space : continuous improvement of infrastructure enhances the quality of urban life. • The cross-cutting knowledge and innovation management pillar ensures that the accumulated knowledge and the resulting innovations are carried forward by the municipal administration and the respective stakeholders. Claim& mission statement Claim Climate- and future-proof solutions for urban neighbourhoods Mission statement WieNeu+ is an urban renewal programme of the City of Vienna that plays a pivotal role in making urban neighbourhoods climate- and future-proof. It works together with local residents and stakeholders to roll out innovative solutions in selected neighbourhoods, sustainably upgrading existing buildings, improving the living environment and fostering community life. "Working together here in the neighbourhood, we're rolling out innovative projects for a future- and climate-proof tomorrow— with even better quality of life. We want to hear your ideas. Get involved! The City of Vienna is here to support you!"(Kathrin Gaál, Deputy Mayor and Executive City Councillor for Housing, Urban Renewal and Women's Issues) 18

Core goals and messages The programme's goals are aligned towards the overarching goals and objectives of the City of Vienna, particularly those set out in the Smart Climate City Strategy. The City of Vienna aims to achieve net zero. In order to meet the city's climate goals, innovative, forward-looking approaches and solutions are required— especially within the existing built-up area. Building upon the future Looking to the future, we make a significant contribution to developing a sustainable, climateneutral city. • We implement measures to decarbonise the existing building stock. • We realise projects showcasing circular construction and refurbishment methods . • We implement measures to enhance housing comfort and quality of life in the neighbourhood. • We roll out measures in public and semi-public spaces to help improve local quality of life . Shaping communities We shape neighbourhoods in partnership with the people who live there. • We use newly-developed participatory formats to enable goal-oriented public participation involving different target groups. • We create vibrant, attractive ground-floor zones that revitalise the neighbourhood and the public space. • We foster social inclusion and community interaction based on solidarity within the neighbourhood. • We implement measures combining conservation of resources and social justice . Fostering innovation We roll out innovative, replicable beacon projects that make a substantial contribution to achieving the City of Vienna's Smart Climate City goals. • We faciliate networking of key players for the realisation of climate- and future-proof innovations in the built environment. • We organise knowledge transfer and innovation management between the project partners as well as across the municipal departments and associated organisations. An accompanying monitoring framework ensures continuous ongoing evaluation and evolution of the WieNeu+ urban renewal programme. 19

Data, Facts& Figures 2023–2025 Figure6: Three years of WieNeu+ in Grätzl 20+2© City of Vienna/WieNeu+ • Three programme areas • Two funding channels for local activities:"Grätzlförderung"(buildings) and "Grätzlmarie"(community projects) • New subsidy scheme for local entrepreneurs:"Grätzlinitiative 20+2" and "Grätzlinitiative 20+2 – Call for Projects" in partnership with the Vienna Business Agency • Number of projects funded: - 15 approved"Grätzlförderung" projects with a total funding volume of - approx.€1 million - 42 approved"Grätzlmarie" projects with a total funding volume of - approx.€140,000 • Approx. 220 events in the programme area • Approx. 6,000 interested individuals reached within the programme area and beyond • Funding to the tune of€1.6 million tapped for disbursement in Vienna • Focus on"Phasing Out Gas": the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood" is the umbrella for the measures implemented by numerous local partners and residents • Collaborative projects with 40 companies, 6 research facilities and a large number of civil society groups "WieNeu+ is all about improving and upgrading existing buildings and neighbourhoods in Vienna. In doing so, we focus on direct engagement with local people and residents in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Building upon the idea of gentle urban renewal, we work together to develop this approach further." (Stephan Hartmann, WieNeu+ Programme Manager, Deputy Head of Department, City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal) 20

Figure 7: Grätzl 20+2 facts& figures© City of Vienna/WieNeu+ 21

Figure 8: Beacon projects in the Grätzl 20+2 neighbourhood© City of Vienna/WieNeu+ 22

How does WieNeu+ work? Management of existing building stock WieNeu+ focuses on improving and upgrading the existing built fabric of the neighbourhood, using a range of different instruments to initiate roll-out projects. The accumulative processes of transformation in our programme areas call for far-sighted management of the existing building stock based on a strategic combination of refurbishment, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and property owner engagement. The decisive element here is systematic analysis of the built fabric, energy supply and ownership structures, to allow targeted identification and utilisation of potentials for refurbishment and climate-proofing measures. The emphasis is on activating property owners to implement energy retrofitting and climate adaptation projects in their buildings. Numerous research projects also use properties within the programme area as living labs to develop and pilot new and innovative solutions. 23

Figure 9: WieNeu+ – an integrated approach to urban renewal© City of Vienna/WieNeu+ Coordination/network-building within the neighbourhood The quality of urban renewal projects essentially depends on the interplay between a large number of stakeholders. WieNeu+ functions as a local platform, bringing different interests together under a single umbrella, initiating cooperation and flagging up synergies within the neighbourhood. Targeted networking activities build solid partnerships that facilitate and accelerate processes, from the original idea right through to implementation. These networking activities have several different formats, including e.g. regular partners' meetings, neighbourhood workshops and local walks. 24

Figure 10: WieNeu+ launch in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area with(l. to r.) Marianne Bügelmayer-Blaschek (AIT), Otto Eckl(Head of MA 25), Hannes Derfler(former CMDC 20), Kathrin Gaál(Deputy Mayor& ECC), Selma Arapović(MVPP/VCC), Alexander Nikolai(CMDC 2), Stephan Hartmann(WieNeu+), Andrea Mann(GB*), Werner Auer(wohnfonds_wien), March 2023© City of Vienna/Martin Votava "People often tell us that WieNeu+ is a great platform for networking. Networking sparks creative ideas, and on the other hand it also builds trust between the participants and gives them a better understanding of one another's needs. That's really important to the success of our projects, and indeed of urban renewal in general." (Ruth Fartacek, WieNeu+, Stadt Wien – Municipal Dept. for Technical Urban Renewal) 25

Consultations& events Figure 11: Local Urban Renewal Office(GB) stand at the Alliiertenviertel street party© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Public consultations are organised in the neighbourhood, along with outreach events on specific topics— e.g. the"Phasing Out Gas" programme, refurbishment activities or greening projects— to engage property owners and provide them with practice-based information. The Hauskunft advice centre and wohnfonds_wien (Vienna Fund for Housing Construction and Urban Renewal) with their teams of experts also provide support for refurbishment and renovation projects in the neighbourhood. A further focus is on providing assistance with applications for funding and subsidies. "Our monthly WieNeu+ newsletter and the programme website provide local residents, programme partners and the media with a constant supply of useful, up-to-date information. We also hold regular events in the programme areas to give interested individuals a low-threshold opportunity to make personal contact with WieNeu+, ask questions, and provide us with input and feedback on the topic of urban renewal." (Judith Rosenkranz-Lichtner, WieNeu+ Communications Officer) 26

Participatory processes Figure 12: An ideas workshop fosters innovative ideas through networking, as seen here in the Wallensteinviertel neighbourhood.© Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*) Sustainable urban renewal only succeeds if it is done in dialogue with the people who live in the respective neighbourhoods. That's why WieNeu+ uses a wide range of participatory formats to actively engage local residents, showcase their ideas and promote community action. In many cases, these also act as a low-threshold platform for bringing local people on board and keeping them informed about WieNeu+ topics and issues. This approach delivers interesting projects that are not only innovative in terms of the built fabric but also have a social and cultural impact that strengthens people's identification with their living environment. Public participation is also encouraged through ideas workshops, future workshops and other participatory formats. The Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*) is the key communication platform and on-site contact point for local residents. "For us, urban renewal means pitching in and working together to regenerate what is already in place and create vibrant neighbourhoods." (Susanne Lins, Head of the Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*) for the 1st, 2nd and 20th districts) 27

Figure 13: Guided neighbourhood walks are popular events, like this one in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood with speaker Helene Scheller(holding pennant) and Stephan Hartmann in the foreground.© City of Vienna/Markus Wache Figure 14: Children model their ideas for the city— here at the annual Vienna Housing Day event in RudolfBednar-Park.© City of Vienna/Jennifer Puchner 28

International networking and exchange Figure 15: URBIS conference, Brno(CZ), May 2024© URBIS Conference WieNeu+ is also an international flagship programme of the City of Vienna. Numerous innovations developed and implemented in practice under the auspices of WieNeu+ are prime examples of sustainable and socially just urban renewal that enrich the European discourse. Visits by professionals and experts from all over the world offer the opportunity for in-depth face-to-face exchange to showcase the Viennese approach to an international audience. "Our discussions with international groups of experts and students from all over the world frequently confirm that Vienna's efforts to safeguard sustainable development, high quality of life and affordable housing as part of its urban renewal programme are the right approach. By the same token, they also allow us to learn about international best practice and embed it in our own work." (Bojan Schnabl, WieNeu+ – Strategic Projects, Housing Research and International Relations, MA 50/MA 25) 29

Figure 16: Face-to-face meetings with international partners are also crucially important: Helene Scheller with international colleagues at the URBIS Conference in Brno, 2024.© URBIS Conference 30

WieNeu+ funding channels Figure 17: Outreach event informing people in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood about the decarbonisation bonus© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl WieNeu+ provides targeted funding to facilitate the development and roll-out of new and innovative solutions. "Grätzlförderung" funding makes buildings fit for the future! "Grätzlförderung" is an innovation funding scheme for technical projects. The focus here is on topics such as energy consumption, the transition to renewables, reducing consumption of resources(circularity), and greening and climate adaptation measures. Find out more here: https://wieneuplus.wien.gv.at/graetzlfoerderung(German) "Grätzlmarie", the WieNeu+ ideas fund "Grätzlmarie" is an ideas fund for local residents("Marie" is the Viennese slang term for money). It provides funding for a wide range of projects and initiatives that help to make local neighbourhoods climate- and future-proof— from greening projects to recycling workshops and street parties. Find out more here: https://wieneuplus.wien.gv.at/graetzlmarie(German) 31

"Grätzlinitiative 20+2" "Grätzlinitiative 20+2", a cooperation between WieNeu+ and the Vienna Business Agency, was set up especially for the programme area. The initiative provides support for small local businesses wishing to optimise and future-proof their operations in a climate-friendly manner, the aim being to boost the local economy and revitalise the neighbourhood. Find out more here: https://wieneuplus.wien.gv.at/graetzlinitiative-20plus2(German) National and European funding WieNeu+ makes use of these additional funding options to cooperate with external partners in developing new solutions for the city. The primary objective here is to strengthen strategic partnerships and tap into additional financial resources for the City of Vienna and its project partners. With this in mind, WieNeu+ plays a key role in supporting partners who are interested in submitting applications for funding. This extends from identifying suitable funding programmes and support with project development, right through to assisting with submission and handling of the funding application. As a result, the programme is able to access significant amounts of funding that enable projects to be implemented in practice. For this purpose, WieNeu+ regularly evaluates funding calls issued at national and European level— e.g. by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency(FFG), the Austrian Climate and Energy Fund and the European Commission(Horizon Europe, LIFE)— and works in close cooperation with the respective project consortia to prepare project submissions. "As in earlier projects, WieNeu+ provides a framework for applied research. In many cases, these research projects not only allowed us to tap into additional funding for Vienna, but also enabled the development of new partnerships and innovative, scalable solutions that were rolled out for practical application later on.” Helene Scheller, WieNeu+ Deputy Programme Manager, City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal) 32

The four pillars of the WieNeu+ programme Buildings& energy The Buildings& energy pillar develops and implements innovative structural and technical solutions for the local neighbourhood that go beyond the state of the art. In doing so, it always places special emphasis on social sustainability and ensuring a supply of affordable housing. The Buildings& energy pillar focuses on: • Reducing energy consumption • Switching to renewable energy sources • Reducing consumption of resources(circularity) • Greening and climate adaptation measures 33

Community-building The Community-building pillar implements projects designed to foster social inclusion and community interaction within the neighbourhood. It also initiates measures to support sustainable, resource-efficient lifestyles and promote and/or strengthen social justice in the programme area. Involving local residents in the process of climate- and future-proof urban renewal is an essential core concern of WieNeu+. Active resident participation fosters integration on multiple levels and reflects the principles of"gentle urban renewal". "WieNeu+ has brought people together and shown just how much drive and positive energy there is in our neighbourhood. Working together with local grassroots activists, we've helped to cultivate ideas, launch projects and forge new links. This community spirit has an impact that extends far beyond the programme itself, and my team and I at GB* will continue to support and foster it going forward." (Susanne Lins, Head of the Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*) for the 1st, 2nd and 20th districts) Neighbourhood development WieNeu+ takes a holistic view of the neighbourhood and the local living environment, allowing it to identify and leverage connections and synergies between different local issues and fields of activity. Special attention is given to the ongoing development and upgrading of public and semipublic spaces. Revitalisation of ground-floor zones and targeted support for local businesses create vibrant neighbourhoods with a diverse mix of uses. Greening and unsealing measures and amenity areas with free public access create climate-resilient outdoor spaces with high quality of life. WieNeu+ works closely with the respective municipal district administrations and the Vienna Business Agency and utilises the resources of other key partners such as GB* and local businesses and stakeholders. "For me, urban renewal is more than just ensuring that buildings are in a good state of repair. The public realm, outdoor spaces, vibrant ground-floor zones and good social interaction have a direct impact on people's quality of life and therefore need to be factored into everything we do." (Julia Haberfellner, WieNeu+, City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal) 34

Knowledge and innovation management The fourth pillar and a key core competence of the WieNeu+ programme is Knowledge and innovation management . This creates an environment in which new solutions can be promoted, piloted and developed further. The aim here is to foster innovations that not only exert a positive impact in the respective WieNeu+ programme area but can also be transferred to other contexts and programmes, producing a long-term effect well beyond the lifetime of the project. Figure 18: Grätzl 20+2 regular partners' meeting, May 2024© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl "With our knowledge management activities, we create space not only for peer-to-peer exchange, but for true shared learning. Our knowledge-sharing formats generate transdisciplinary expertise that enables all programme partners to bring the experience and know-how gained from WieNeu+ into their own day-to-day work." (Helene Scheller, WieNeu+ WieNeu+ Deputy Programme Manager, City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal) 35

Figure 19: The WieNeu+ project environment within the municipal administration© City of Vienna/MA 25 Monitoring All projects are subject to continuous monitoring and are evaluated on the basis of concrete indicators. The latter were developed in cooperation with UIV(Urban Innovation Vienna https://urbaninnovation.at/) based on those used for Vienna's Smart Climate City Strategy. The monitoring process delivers timely feedback on the effectiveness of the implemented solutions. 36

Projects from the Buildings pillar Two WieNeu block renewal zones in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area wohnfonds_wien, the City of Vienna's Fund for Housing and Urban Renewal, uses the WieNeu block renewal zones to initiate subsidised refurbishment projects and structural improvements across multiple properties, facilitated by networking and cooperation with local property owners and stakeholders within the framework of WieNeu. The WieNeu block renewal zones are an important tool for urban regeneration, helping to make neighbourhoods climate-proof and fit for the future. Two block renewal zones were defined within the Grätzl 20+2 programme area: • Alliiertenviertel+ and • Alt-BrigitteNeu. Find out more here: https://www.wohnfonds.wien.at/wieneu_blocksanierung(German) WieNeu block renewal projects pursue an integrated approach to urban regeneration, incorporating housing refurbishment, mixed use with the emphasis on vibrant ground-floor zones, and climate- and energy-related improvements. A special focus is placed on phasing out fossil fuels in cooperation with Vienna's energy provider, Wien Energie. Other key measures in the two zones include optimising built density, greening and unsealing, upgrade of the public space, and transport links to the neighbouring urban development zones(Nordbahnhof, Nordwestbahnhof). 37

Key projects Individual refurbishment projects within the Alliiertenviertel+ and Alt-BrigitteNeu block renewal zones are strategically or operationally important and thus require special attention and resources. They are often highly complex and strategically relevant. Example project: Lessinggasse 19, 1020 Vienna The"Lessinggasse 19" project involves future-proofing of an existing building with regard to sustainability, energy efficiency and development of the residential space. The project combines climate-friendly measures with a significant upgrade of the housing quality. A rooflevel extension will give the option of creating additional living space. A key element of the project is a retrofit of the energy supply system involving connection of the building to the local district heating network, an important step towards decarbonisation and reduced use of fossil fuels. As part of the refurbishment all existing windows in the building will be replaced with energy-efficient ones, thus reducing heat loss and energy consumption and enhancing home comfort. The plans also include retrofitting of balconies to further improve the quality of the dwelling units. Targeted unsealing of the rear courtyard will restore the natural soil functions and create a surface where rainwater can seep away, a measure that will also improve the courtyard microclimate. The unsealing measures in the courtyard will be complemented by greening of the facade to enhance the microclimate still further. Find out more here: https://www.wohnfonds.wien.at/wieneu_blocksanierung(German) Alliiertenviertel+ The Alliiertenviertel+ block renewal zone comprises a total of 26 city blocks. The Alliiertenviertel+ neighbourhood is situated between the Nordwestbahnhof and Nordbahnhof urban development zones and bordered to the west by the Augarten park and to the south by Lessinggasse and Darwingasse. The blocks between Lampigasse and Nordwestbahnstraße link the neighbourhood to the WieNeu programme area"AltBrigitteNeu" in the 20th district. To promote further take-up of district heating, the buildings along Springergasse were incorporated into the programme area. The programme period began in June 2022 with the preparatory phase and the appointment of the advisory board, with ongoing work on key projects due to continue until April 2028. 38

Figure 20: The WieNeu Alliiertenviertel+ neighbourhood© wohnfonds_wien Evaluation: WieNeu Alliiertenviertel+ neighbourhood, January 2022 to September 2025 • 72 consultations • 12 funding applications • 4 key projects completed • 12 contacts established for key projects Alt-BrigitteNeu The neighbourhood extends northward from the Augarten park with Stromstraße at its northern edge and comprises a total of 27 city blocks. Jägerstraße forms its western border, with Nordwestbahnstraße and the adjacent Nordwestbahnhof urban development zone to the east. The programme period began in June 2022 with the preparatory phase and the appointment of the advisory board, with ongoing work on key projects due to continue until November 2027. Alongside the classic late-19th-century city blocks, this neighbourhood also contains a number of large-scale municipal housing complexes. 39

Figure 21: The WieNeu Alt-BrigitteNeu neighbourhood© wohnfonds_wien Evaluation: WieNeu Alt-BrigitteNeu neighbourhood, January 2022 to September 2025 • 41 consultations • 6 funding applications • 6 key projects completed • 13 contacts established for key projects Project partners • wohnfonds_wien(Vienna Fund for Housing Construction and Urban Renewal) • POINTNER Architektur ZT GmbH 40

Wiener Wohnen(municipal housing agency) Wiener Wohnen is owned by the City of Vienna and manages approx. 220,000 municipal dwelling units housing over 500,000 tenants, plus over 5,100 commercial premises located within municipal housing complexes. Vienna's large stock of municipal housing is kept up to standard by means of a carefully planned multi-year cycle of maintenance and modernisation works. This includes implementation of innovative measures to keep pace with societal changes, global challenges and new technical standards with the aim of preserving and safeguarding Vienna's highquality, affordable municipal housing complexes for generations to come. The Wiener Wohnen WieNeu+ Coordination Point The Wiener Wohnen WieNeu+ Coordination Point was set up in 2023 as a platform for Wiener Wohnen's active participation in the WieNeu+ urban renewal programme. It serves as an information interface for the specialist experts of the Wiener Wohnen Group as well as a contact point for external partners. Takeaways& challenges • Given that the above-mentioned refurbishment cycles call for careful, long-term, tenant-centred preparation, WieNeu+ provides ideas, input and funding to act as an instigator and catalyst for innovative measures. Naturally, these measures cannot usually be completed within the short timeframe of the WieNeu+ programme cycles. However, the ongoing development of the WieNeu+ programme structures in cooperation with MA 25 still enables Wiener Wohnen to play an active role. • The WieNeu+ urban renewal programme with its financial subsidies for planning and implementation of innovative structural, technical and social projects provides important impetus for the future-proof refurbishment of Vienna's municipal housing and thus also for the City of Vienna as a whole – especially with regard to the opportunities it offers for network-building, exchange, and transfer of knowledge on issues of relevance for the future. Measures implemented by the City of Vienna – Wiener Wohnen The following pages present examples of measures and projects implemented by Wiener Wohnen under the auspices of WieNeu+. In addition, Wiener Wohnen was involved as a partner in several other collaborative WieNeu+ projects: • "Cool Zones" pilot project – with MA 25, • "Stadtkern_PLUS" – with MA 25, • "Taxonomie Konkret" workshop – with WH Consulting • "WieNeu+ Anergy Networks" – with the Austrian Society for Environment and Technology(ÖGUT). 41

20th district, Klosterneuburger Straße 99-105: Forecourt upgrade – unsealing& greening measures Figure 22: Forecourt greening in front of the municipal housing complex at Klosterneuburger Straße 99-105© Wiener Wohnen Inspired by an idea submitted under the"Grätzlmarie" scheme, Wiener Wohnen was able to upgrade the design and ecological value of the forecourt of the municipal housing complex at Klosterneuburger Straße 99-105 in the 20th district. An asphalt surface with an area of approx. 170 m² was unsealed, and new greened areas were installed to improve the microclimate, reduce the urban heat island effect and promote biodiversity. The project involved the planting of around 500 shrubs, including the heat-resistant" Seven-son flower "— a first for Wiener Wohnen. The measures were implemented in close consultation with Municipal Departments MA 28 – Road Management and Construction and MA 42 – Parks and Gardens. Launched in March 2025, the project was already completed in May 2025. The creation of this green oasis has significantly enhanced the design of the public space and helped to adapt it to climate change while simultaneously enhancing the amenity value of the neighbourhood for local residents and passers-by. 42

Takeaways& challenges • The project was initiated via the WieNeu+"Grätzlmarie" scheme and was able to be rolled out thanks to the dedicated work of the WieNeu+ Coordination Point team at Wiener Wohnen. • The extensive redevelopment of the forecourt would not have been possible without the financial support from WieNeu+. Draft design for"Klima*wandel*insel" – modular seating islands for the outdoor spaces of Vienna's municipal housing complexes The Klima*wandel*insel project aims to design modular seating islands integrating different target groups for flexible use in the outdoor spaces of Vienna's municipal housing complexes. The objective here is to enhance amenity value, promote cross-generational interaction within the community, enliven the neighbourhood and help adapt to climate change – e.g. by improving the urban microclimate and reducing the urban heat island effect. As a first step, the WieNeu+"Grätzlförderung" scheme provided funding support for a pilot draft design, and a prototype is to be rolled out within the WieNeu+ Grätzl 20+2 programme area. Takeaways& challenges • Due to the size of the Wiener Wohnen portfolio, the design of individual one-off solutions often represents a particular challenge. There are existing framework contracts and standard items of furniture, both of which need to be factored into the planning process. • The initial investment costs of innovative projects are an obstacle, but usually one that can be overcome with the aid of one-off grants and subsidies. Nevertheless, the longer-term costs of repair, maintenance, care, etc. remain. This project was supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. 43

Decarbonisation of municipal housing in the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood" As part of the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood" project, Wiener Wohnen is supporting the residents of five municipal housing complexes that have already been connected to the district heating network in making their flats completely gas-free. As soon as a flat is gas-free, the tenants can apply for a"Phasing Out Gas Bonus" from the City of Vienna (Municipal Dept. MA 50). The Wiener Wohnen team also provide support with submission of the necessary application documents. Three further housing complexes in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood are to be decarbonised over the next few years in cooperation with the City of Vienna's energy provider, Wien Energie. In cooperation with the City of Vienna's energy provider, Wien Energie, three further municipal housing complexes in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood are to be decarbonised over the next few years, alongside the two that have already been made fully emission-free to date. With this project, Wiener Wohnen is playing an essential and decisive role in making the"climate pioneer neighbourhood" into a flagship climate-friendly neighbourhood. Find out more(German). Takeaways& challenges • Effective communication and appropriate support schemes are vitally important in order to interest individual tenants in converting their flats from gas to alternative energy sources. • The WieNeu+ public event format attracted a mixed audience of tenants, flat owners, building owners and other interested individuals – including people from outside the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood. • The participants found the information provided by Wiener Wohnen about switching to renewables helpful and sensible. 44

" Retrofit Gemeindebau " – Wiener Wohnen in cooperation with TU Wien Figure 23: Retrofit workshop© Jennifer Fetz The winter term 2023/24 saw the launch of the third" Retrofit Gemeindebau “("Retrofitting Municipal Housing") project – this year for the first time as a direct cooperation between Wiener Wohnen and the recurring term-long project by students and academic staff at the Research Centre for Urban Planning and Design at TU Wien together with the urban planning consultancies Plansinn and MIA, numerous local stakeholders and the City of Vienna's urban planning institutions. The project's approach centres on the urban planning and design potential of the City of Vienna's municipal housing complexes and outdoor spaces from the 1950s and 1960s and their transformation into future-proof urban living environments. Taking an holistic view of the entire neighbourhood, the project team explore the inherent potential of the existing structures and outdoor spaces, together with the adjacent urban space and its social and ecological infrastructure. The clear focus throughout is on the needs of local residents, tailored to specific target groups. As part of a regular peer-to-peer exchange format with the specialist experts from Wiener Wohnen, nine retrofitting concepts were drafted for six municipal housing complexes and their outdoor areas— some dating from the"Red Vienna" era, some from the post-war period, all in the WieNeu+ Grätzl 20+2 programme area in Brigittenau— to transform them into future-fit urban quarters. Many of the ideas presented contain modular"mix and match" elements that Wiener Wohnen can reuse in similar future structural renovation or refurbishment projects. Find out more(German) 45

The successful cooperation on the" Retrofit Gemeindebau " project was subsequently continued in two further term-long projects outside the WieNeu+ programme areas: • Retrofit Gemeindebau 4.0, Typologies: Retrofit solutions for use in refurbishment projects in any location, designed for different building typologies(row, point access and block typologies, plus a special"Senior Citizens' Wing") • Retrofit Gemeindebau, Quartier 3: Focus on circular construction methods in cooperation with the Executive Group for Construction& Technology:" Urban Living Lab – Circular Construction " with a joint publication" Retrofit Gemeindebau: Regeneration Concepts for a Quarter in Vienna's 3rd District"(German) The WieNeu+ programme areas are also thematised in the ongoing cooperation with TU Wien, e.g. as part of Themed dissertations – Retrofit Gemeindebau, Post-war Modernism(German). To give one example, following on from the Retrofit cooperation in the WieNeu+ programme area Grätzl 20+2, one student wrote her dissertation on the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex(" Future prospects: the Johann-Kaps-Hof as a model for environment-friendly integrative regeneration and densification in Viennese municipal housing complexes of the postwar period" – dissertation by Andrea Falkner, TU Wien, October 2025 ). Takeaways& challenges • The link between theory and practice is crucially important in developing real-life solutions for issues of relevance to the city's future. The selection of specific municipal housing complexes and the provision of plans and information by the experts from Wiener Wohnen creates a constructive learning environment for everyone involved. • The project delivers new, future-proof planning ideas incorporating international input and provides Wiener Wohnen with usable, scalable draft plans that factor in topics of future relevance such as e.g. the circular economy. • Neutral interactive formats – e.g. as part of university teaching modules – facilitate networking, collaboration and exchange among specialist experts within the Wiener Wohnen Group, as well as with other departments and with external experts and stakeholders. Project partners • City of Vienna – Wiener Wohnen(municipal housing agency) • TU Wien https://urbanism-tuwien.at/en • PlanSinn Planung& Kommunikation GmbH(urban planning consultancy) • MIA – Metropolitan Innovation Action(urban planning consultancy) https://metropolitaninnovationaction.com/ Find out more here: https://urbanism-tuwien.at/en/lehre/kurs/entwerfen-retrofit-gemeindebau-4-0 46

Study: Taxonomie Konkret (Practical application of the EU Taxonomy criteria) The EU Taxonomy is a standard classification system used to establish whether an economic activity qualifies as environmentally sustainable. Under the auspices of Wie Neu+, a study was commissioned to provide a detailed analysis of how the Taxonomy criteria can be applied in practice in building refurbishment projects, based on the example of a property in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area. The results were presented and discussed in workshops with stakeholders, then developed in depth and documented in a report. The project thus makes an essential contribution to ensuring that the EU Taxonomy can be applied to the property and construction sector. Practical application of the EU Taxonomy criteria – definitions An economic activity is only deemed to be aligned with the EU Taxonomy if it • makes a substantial contribution to one or more of the environmental objectives • does no significant harm(DNSH principle) with regard to any of the core environmental objectives • meets certain minimum social safeguards(in terms of human and labour rights) • complies with the technical screening criteria(TSC) The criteria for the minimum social safeguards(MSS) have not yet been defined in detail, and the"EU Social Taxonomy" has not yet been published to date. Source:“Taxonomiefähig und Taxonomiekonform”© Walter Hüttler, Taxonomie Konkret project, final report, p. 5 (German). EU context Virtually all companies are affected by the EU Taxonomy in one way or another, whether directly due to legal reporting obligations or indirectly via banks and financing conditions. The EU Taxonomy is thus a key regulatory framework for the property and construction sector. Although the EU Commission has published FAQs, a large number of questions still remain open. The EU Taxonomy criteria are refined and supplemented on an ongoing basis, so companies must continuously adapt their strategies and internal processes accordingly. This requires flexibility, resources, and continuous monitoring of regulatory developments. Various consultancies and established systems such as klimaaktiv(climate protection initiative of the Austrian Federal Government) https://www.klimaaktiv.at/ and ÖGNI(Austrian Sustainable Building Council) https://www.ogni.at/(both in German) have developed additional tools to help companies in the construction& property sector integrate the criteria 47

into their existing certification and planning processes. These tools reduce the additional workload and also facilitate workable solutions. Practical application of the EU Taxonomy criteria – requirements differ depending on the economic activity The climate risk and vulnerability analysis is always aligned to the particular economic activity being assessed and the respective building use. This can mean that the relevant climate risks for a particular property can differ depending on the building's use. Source:“Requirements differ depending on the economic activity”© Walter Hüttler, Taxonomie Konkret project, final report, p. 30(German). Takeaways& challenges • To be able to apply the criteria efficiently, companies need to adapt their internal processes(e.g. for data management, project development or portfolio management purposes). At the same time there is a need for additional staff training, so that the requirements can be factored into the day-to-day work processes. • Initial experience shows that banks are already taking account of the Taxonomy criteria in their lending operations. In many cases, projects that meet the Taxonomy criteria not only benefit from better interest rates, but also from more favourable lending conditions(e.g. longer repayment periods, lower own funds requirements). This can give them a significant competitive advantage. • One considerable challenge lies in reconciling the requirements of the EU Taxonomy with those of national and/or local funding programmes and building rating systems. Differing criteria or documentation formats increase the workload and can sometimes result in processes being duplicated. Harmonisation would create transparency and clarity and reduce the amount of bureaucratic hurdles. • In Vienna, the Building Code, the new eligibility conditions(SanDekVO 2024), programmes like Phasing Out Gas and WieNeu+ and the Smart City Strategy provide numerous points of reference. The topics of climate change mitigation, climate change adaptation and circularity are also closely linked to the EU Taxonomy criteria and will thus be a key factor in future urban development projects. This project was supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. Project partners • Dipl.-Ing. Walter Hüttler, WH consulting engineers 48

Circular refurbishment: Hartlgasse 22(Sozialbau AG) Figure 24: Hartlgasse 22, 1200 Vienna© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl The study by Digital findet Stadt analysed the suitability of social housing in Vienna for refurbishment in line with circular economic principles. The pilot project is based on the residential building owned by Sozialbau AG at Hartlgasse 22(20th district), dating from 1986, which serves as a model for economically feasible, scalable refurbishment measures in the social housing sector. To this end, a targeted comparison was performed with the strategic corporate objectives of Sozialbau AG to identify synergies and priorities. A rough cost estimate was also carried out to arrive at a realistic assessment of economic feasibility. Core objectives of the study: 1. Assessment of circularity: Identification of criteria for assessment of circularity in the social housing sector. 2. Identification of suitable building components and materials: Analysis of which elements of a typical residential building can be reused or recycled in the context of a refurbishment project. 3. Optimisation of the refurbishment strategy: Development of generic measures to maximise circular impact in the context of building refurbishment. 49

Figure 25: Regulatory framework – circularity in the construction sector, Digital findet Stadt(digital platform for innovations in the construction sector) The study made reference to the criteria defined by the EU Taxonomy, OIB Guideline 7 and the Vienna Circularity Factor(ZIFA). It also tested the ability of various digital platforms(BIM, Madaster) to provide efficient verification, tracking and documentation of materials and carbon footprints. Preservation of the load-bearing structure was a key focus, as this largely avoids the high CO₂ emissions associated with demolition and rebuild. Special attention was paid to the outer shell, durable windows, sustainable facade materials and removable, reusable interior finishing components. Takeaways& challenges • Based on the example of Hartlgasse, preserving the load-bearing structures saves 62% of CO₂ emissions over the lifecycle of the building. • The outer shell is key: facades, windows and insulation offer the greatest leverage for reducing the global warming potential(GWP). • The interior finishing has a lesser effect on GWP, but removable, reusable components (such as e.g. ceilings, floors, stair banisters, wall claddings) do have circularity potential. • The typical structure of the property at Hartlgasse 22 means that the developed strategies are transferable and/or scalable to other social housing projects in Vienna. • Sustainable materials can be more costly to start with, though they pay off in the long term thanks to their reduced carbon footprint, longer service life and lower disposal costs. • The EU Taxonomy, OIB Guideline 7 and ZIFA define the basic criteria for circularity in refurbishment projects. Funding schemes – such as SanDekVo 2024 – provide a financial incentive to select sustainable materials and future-proof construction methods. 50

• BIM and digital building passports are useful tools to aid transparent documentation of building materials and sustainable, efficient design of the building lifecycle analysis. This project was supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. Project partners • Sozialbau AG(non-profit housing association) • Digital findet Stadt(digital platform for innovations in the construction sector) 51

Greening project: Am Tabor Lutheran Parish Figure 26: Am Tabor Lutheran Church, an architectural gem built in the period 1913 to 1926.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl The Church of the Transfiguration(Am Tabor Lutheran Church) is situated in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood in Leopoldstadt(20th district) and was built between 1913 and 1926 to plans by Siegfried Theiß and Hans Jaksch. The facade of the church, a listed building, has darkened considerably over the years and this, together with the lack of shade in the street space, helps to create an urban heat hotspot in summer. Back in 2023, local residents already expressed their desire for a visual upgrade of the church facade. Thanks to a financial subsidy from the"Grätzlmarie" scheme, the"Am Tabor biodiversity hedge" project enabled the ecological and visual redesign of the existing hedge alongside the nave of the church in early 2025(see"Grätzlmarie" projects). Building on this, plans are now also underway for greening of the street-facing facade. A system incorporating climbing aids and growth barriers is being evaluated, with due consideration for architectural functions and building conservation requirements. Facade greening will not only help to improve the local microclimate and enhance biodiversity in the neighbourhood, but is likewise intended to improve the aesthetic qualities of the building and significantly add to the amenity value for pedestrians and cyclists along Taborstraße. The project is currently being planned in consultation with the Federal Monuments Authority. This project is being supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. 52

Project partners • Am Tabor Lutheran Parish Find out more here: https://www.amtabor-evang.at/natur-und-kirche(German) 53

Nordwestbahnstraße 27, Schöberl& Pöll Figure 27: The late-19th-century building at Nordwestbahnstraße 27 with its historically valuable structured facade© Schöberl& Pöll GmbH This project comprises the complete future-proof refurbishment of a late-19th-century residential building in an urban conservation area, including an attic conversion. The aim is to preserve the historic built structure while substantially reducing energy consumption and installing renewable energy sources. The plans include retrofitting of an interior thermal insulation system(Multipor), conversion of the heating system to a groundwater heat pump with additional cooling function for the densely built-up urban location, installation of solar panels, unsealing and greening of the rear courtyard, and creation of a ground-floor zone with access from the street to enliven the immediate neighbourhood. The project is a significant example of sustainable, climate-proof urban renewal. It incorporates renewable energy sources, reduces energy consumption and supports densification within the existing fabric of the inner city without adversely affecting the protected historic ensemble. The combination of energy efficiency, climate change adaptation and openness to the community makes this project a trailblazing model for the regeneration of historic buildings. The innovative nature of this project should be emphasised: although the technologies used are already well established on the market, to date they have only rarely been installed in Vienna's densely built-up late-19th-century neighbourhoods. The project is thus a shining example of how ecological and social sustainability can be successfully integrated, even in complex built environments. 54

The project is currently being prepared for implementation. "I'm very familiar with the WieNeu+ programme, and my company is involved in three pilot projects, all of which would make very good models for other neighbourhoods to emulate. WieNeu+ is setting new standards in energyefficient, socially sustainable neighbourhood development." (Helmut Schöberl, managing director of Schöberl& Pöll GmbH) This project is being supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. Project partners • Schöberl& Pöll GmbH(structural engineers) 55

Communal greening project: rear courtyard, Gaußplatz 5 Figure 28: Gaußplatz 5: Sketch showing the community space in the newly greened rear courtyard.© Mair-Paar Architektenbüro(architects) The late-19th-century building at Gaußplatz 5 in Leopoldstadt(2nd district) was divided into individual residential units some time ago and is organised as a commonhold association. Now the northern rear courtyard is to be greened and redesigned as a community space for use by all residents and the architectural practice on the ground floor. Since the dilapidated wall abutting the neighbouring property to the north was recently demolished and replaced with a double-wire panel fence with galvanised steel posts, further measures are now planned to transform the rear courtyard into a community space. Planting and watering Two extra-large galvanised steel trough planters are to be erected alongside the fence and planted with a mix of climbing plants, small shrubs, bushes and ground cover. The choice of plants will reflect the fact that there is little direct sunlight. Planting and plant care are to be carried out jointly by the building's commonhold residents under the supervision of a gardener – and, if necessary, a landscape designer – to ensure sustainable green coverage of the shady areas. The commonhold residents will be responsible for regular watering of the planters. Furniture A workshop was held in which the residents collaborated with an artist to design and build fixed and flexible items of outdoor furniture for the rear courtyard: a fixed low bench will be installed to provide a seating/lounging surface along the side wall of the building, which 56

receives evening sunlight in the summer months. The rest of the courtyard will be furnished with flexible items of furniture that will allow it to be used for community activities(flea market/swap shop, summer party, meetings of the commonhold association, etc.) that strengthen social cohesion among the residents of the building. At the same time, the furniture design should be child-friendly and allow easy everyday use. Floor surface The existing concrete floor surface slopes more steeply in places; the surface is to be levelled to reduce the risk of tripping or stumbling. The cement tiles envisaged for the floor surface were removed during demolition of the entrance to a building in the 2nd district and will only require thorough cleaning before being relaid. The reuse of the tiles is thus a small yet important contribution to circularity. The works will be carried out as a community project led by a team of specialists. The mix of plants proposed for the specific conditions in the rear courtyard can subsequently serve as a pilot project for other courtyard gardens in Vienna. The project is currently being prepared for implementation. Takeaways& challenges • Community projects provide an opportunity for circularity. • Input from professional landscape gardeners helps ensure the successful greening of a shady courtyard. • The consultation process within the commonhold association requires patience and forging of alliances. This project is being supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. Project partners • Gaußplatz 5 commonhold association • Mair-Paar Architektenbüro(architects) 57

Projects from the Energy pillar The Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood" Figure 29: Street party in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood© City of Vienna/Markus Wache WieNeu+ has been intensively involved in the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood" over the past few years and will continue to proactively support the regeneration process going forward. Supported by the Austria-wide Climate-neutral City Mission, the teams from WieNeu+ and its project partners – such as the Local Area Renewal 58

Office – provided local residents and property owners with ongoing information and advice on refurbishment, funding schemes, alternative energy sources and many other topics. Find out more here: https://www.wien.gv.at/video/4693/Gemeinsam-machen-wir-das-Alliiertenviertelzukunftsfit(German) Jennifer Puchner on the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood" "The special thing here is that we're preserving the existing built fabric and making it fit for the future. We're active on the ground in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood, for instance with outreach events about retrofitting of district heating networks, as well as refurbishment, greening and community-building projects. In 15 years' time, the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood will be a thriving example of successful gentle urban renewal." (Jennifer Puchner, WieNeu+, City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal) " Working together for a future-fit Alliiertenviertel! " was the motto as WieNeu+ and the Local Area Renewal Office initiated and organised numerous outreach events and workshops on the "Future-fit Alliiertenviertel" theme during the project's timeline. Figure 30: Logo graphic of the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood"© City of Vienna 59

Events and consultations 9 outreach events in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood 1 street party 200 attendees at outreach events and street party 115 contacts established with property owners(buildings and individual flats), tenants and property management companies 34 consultations provided and contacts established by Hauskunft, Wohnfonds and WieNeu+ on district heating, switching to renewables, refurbishment, greening, etc. 50% of the buildings in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood have been reached to date Neighbourhood facts& figures Total area of neighbourhood approx. 9 ha Built-up area approx. 3.5 ha 67 buildings Approx. 1,800 dwelling units Approx. 2,800 residents 762 property owners Of which 40 sole owners Existing building stock mainly from late 19th century Energy supply 1 building connected to district heating grid 1,200 dwelling units with gas supply, 600 of which with gas cookers Estimated solar potential approx. 800 kWp 1 public e-charging point 60

Figure 31: The Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*) team(l. to r.): Julia Halbauer, Lena Diete and Nino Gamsjäger© City of Vienna/Bubu Dujmic "In the Alliiertenviertel climate pioneer neighbourhood we worked with WieNeu+ to get to know our neighbours even better, organising events, initiatives and shared projects on the ground to provide them with targeted support in their drive to build a climate-resilient, future-fit neighbourhood." (Nino Gamsjäger, member of GB* team, works for WieNeu+ on the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood" project) 61

Building on change: working together for a sustainable future Figure 32: Facade of the renovated building at Eberlgasse 3 in the 2nd district. district.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Thermally insulated buildings are an essential step towards a climate- and future-proof neighbourhood. Insulated buildings consume significantly less energy, which in turn means that they also save costs. A showcase project from the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood is the late-19th-century residential building at Eberlgasse 3, the first in Vienna to be fully refurbished to passive energy standard. Further showcase projects can be found on the website of the" 100 Projects Phasing Out Gas " initiative. Find out more here: https://www.wien.gv.at/umwelt/100-projekte-raus-aus-gas(German) 62

Vienna's"climate pioneer neighbourhoods" and"Phasing Out Gas" Figure 33: Wien Energie local district heating substation© Wien Energie/Max Kropitz One of the City of Vienna's future objectives is to achieve net zero(Vienna Smart Climate City Strategy, Climate Protection). Phasing out fossil fuels, in particular natural gas, plays an essential role in this. At present, over 600,000 households in Vienna still use natural gas for heating, cooking and hot water supply, which is why the City of Vienna launched its"Phasing Out Gas" programme. As part of the programme, four"pioneer neighbourhoods" have been designated for expansion of the district heating grid. These neighbourhoods are to provide initial takeaways and lessons for the future, while local residents and property owners receive special targeted support and funding. The four"pioneer neighbourhoods": • Alliiertenviertel • Gumpendorfer Straße • Huber-Block • Rossau 63

Expansion of the district heating grid in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood Figure 34: On-site information: the Phasing Out Gas container, Am Tabor© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl In a first phase, to equip the residents of the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood for future access to a district heating supply, Wien Energie and Wiener Netze installed a primary district heating main together with a high-capacity underground substation. Since summer 2025, none of this has been visible on the surface. The square on Alliiertenstraße was redesigned, landscaped, and is now an amenity space with free public access. Find out more here: Current timetable of works(Wien Energie)(546 KB PDF)(German) Information about"pioneer neighbourhoods" and potential for connection to a district heating network (German) How to apply for the City of Vienna's decarbonisation bonus(German) 64

"Climate-neutral Alliiertenviertel" study Figure 35: Bird's-eye view of the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood© City of Vienna In 2025, on behalf of WieNeu+(Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal), the FH Technikum Wien university of applied sciences carried out a study entitled" Climate-neutral Alliiertenviertel ". The study explores possible scenarios for the phase-out of fossil fuels in the buildings sector. Takeaways& challenges • Following evaluation of the status quo and the maximum potentials("maximum technical scenarios"),"realistic scenarios" show how many buildings actually have to be retrofitted to achieve the aim of reducing final energy consumption. • The study shows that a shift from gas to district heating combined with thermal insulation of buildings can deliver significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Vienna's climate target of reducing per capita final energy consumption for heating, cooling and hot water by 20% can be achieved with a thermal retrofitting rate of 2.5% – i.e. retrofitting of two buildings – per year. • A complete phase-out of gas for heating would require conversion of the heating and hot water systems in 80% of the buildings, corresponding to an annual boiler replacement rate of approx. 5%. • This means that everyone can make a significant contribution to the transition to clean energy while simultaneously seeing a long-term reduction in their own energy costs. More about the"Climate-neutral Alliiertenviertel" study (German) 65

Project partners • Wien Energie(municipal energy provider) • Wiener Netze(municipal utility infrastructure) • Local Area Renewal Office(GB*Mitte) • wohnfonds_wien(Vienna Fund for Housing Construction and Urban Renewal) • Urban Innovation Vienna(UIV)(climate and innovation agency of the City of Vienna) • City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Energy Planning(MA 20) • FH Technikum Wien(university of applied sciences) Pioneers of the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood Figure 36: Climate pioneers of the Alliiertenviertel,(l. to r.) Corinna Gulder, Jeffrey Waldock, Kevin Waldock, Wolfgang Suchy© City of Vienna/Stephan Grundei How can climate-proofing measures be rolled out in the neighbourhood? What projects can make the neighbourhood an even more pleasant place to live? The climate pioneers of the Alliiertenviertel show how it's done. See for yourself how our climate pioneers and their various projects are helping to make the Alliiertenviertel fit for the future. In 2025 we worked with the Municipal Department for Communication and Media(MA 53) to produce a video clip with voices from the Alliiertenviertel to inspire others to follow their example. https://www.wien.gv.at/video/4692/Die-Klimapionierinnen-des-Alliiertenviertels (German) Voices from the Alliiertenviertel(screenshot)© City of Vienna/MA 53 66

"WieNeu+ talks to property owners to discuss what options are available. They provide a huge amount of information in their outreach activities to get partners on board for shared projects." (Corinna Gulder, manager of a property in the Alliiertenviertel) Figure 37: Change is only possible if you take people along with you. Climate pioneers of the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood with Alexander Nikolai, CMDC 2(6th from left), Deputy Mayor& ECC Kathrin Gaál(5th from right), Head of MA 25 Otto Eckl(4th from right) and Stephan Hartmann© City of Vienna/Stephan Grundei 67

Miesbachgasse anergy network(Sozialbau) Figure 38: Miesbachgasse 10© City of Vienna/Christian Fürthner The" Miesbachgasse anergy network" project by the WOHNBAU housing cooperative(part of the SOZIALBAU housing association group) demonstrates how heating systems in existing buildings can be decarbonised. The heating system in the flats dating from the 1960s was first converted from separate gas boilers to gas central heating, which was then successively replaced with a renewables-based supply. An air-to-water heat pump, solar panels and a buffer tank now supply the residential building with fossil-free energy. However, the project is actually the starting point of a much larger vision: the development of a communal anergy network serving several properties and incorporating renewable energy sources such as groundwater or geothermal probes. This would not only replace fossil fuels, but also allow cooling of the buildings in the summer months. Retrofitting of such a network in an existing built-up area is a technical as well as a legal challenge, though it does have a high level of scalability. Thanks to minimally invasive techniques – e.g. installing piping in disused chimney flues – the measures are cost-effective, socially responsible and accepted by tenants. As a showcase for Vienna's transition to clean energy, the Miesbachgasse project demonstrates how existing buildings in built-up urban areas can be retrofitted for a climate-neutral future. 68

Figure 39: Group tour of the loft installations in WOHNBAU's Miesbachgasse project.© City of Vienna/Markus Wache Takeaways& challenges • Existing buildings can be decarbonised – and it can be done using minimally invasive techniques. • Centralised, system-based solutions allow flexibility: further renewable technologies – e.g. brine/water heat pumps – can be integrated at any time. • Legal and organisational frameworks – esp. questions regarding billing of heating costs, ownership structures and how neighbouring properties are financed – are key obstacles in the development of an anergy network. • The investment and installation costs of anergy networks need to be apportionable to tenants. However, according to an Austrian Supreme Court ruling(2022), the heating provider and the property owner may not be one and the same; a heating price can only be charged in the case of collective systems supplying multiple properties – otherwise only the operating costs. • The project highlights the importance of a professional"heating network management" team with a combination of technical, economic and legal expertise. A successful roll-out requires stamina and skilful negotiation, as well as powerful, convincing arguments. • The extensive preparation, moderation and planning work required must be done by an external coordinator and carried out in a financially viable manner. • Funding schemes and political pressure to deliver are vitally important in order to actually get projects done; even with committed"facilitators" in place, the success rate to date remains low. 69

This project was supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. Project partners • WOHNBAU housing cooperative(part of the SOZIALBAU housing association group) Find out more here: https://www.wien.gv.at/umwelt/vorzeigeprojekt-miesbachgasse(German) 70

Modernisation of building utilities: Ybbsstraße 6 Figure 40: Facade of Ybbsstraße 6© Helmut Schöberl The key task for the coming years is to find solutions for existing buildings and convert existing heating systems to a renewable energy supply. The enormous number of fossil-fuelled heating systems, in combination with a historic built fabric in which the outer shell of buildings and their technical installations are frequently of substandard quality, not to mention the architectural limitations, present a huge cluster of challenges when it comes to phasing out fossil fuels and achieving the climate targets. This project tackles all the above issues. This early-20th-century residential building on Ybbsstraße in Vienna's 2nd district is to become a showcase for innovative energy solutions in older buildings. Built in 1908, the building comprises flats on five storeys and has a typical heating system of individual gas boilers. Wherever appropriate insulation makes it technically feasible to do so, the existing gas heating boilers are to be successively replaced with a groundwater heat pump system. Takeaways& challenges • Analysis has shown that a heat pump solution without accompanying thermal insulation results in a largely electricity-based heating system, which does not fulfil the criteria for a renewables-based system. Furthermore, the electrical capacities required would entail substantial modification of the electrical wiring system. For this reason, an 71

economically and technically practical renewables-based heating and cooling system is only feasible if the heat energy requirement is reduced from 66 to around 30–40 kWh/m²a by the planned thermal insulation. Going forward, the new OIB Guideline introduced in 2025 will allow more reliable evaluations of suitability for lowtemperature systems. • Decision-making processes in commonhold associations usually require a great deal of time and consultation due to the clash of different interests and varying levels of information and awareness. The number of commonhold associations who decide to go ahead with retrofitting concepts is significantly lower than the figure for sole owners. • Complex modernisation or energy retrofitting projects involving commonhold associations require continuous, neutral moderation or mediation, ideally in parallel with the project phases. Property management companies and engineering firms do not usually have the necessary moderation or conflict resolution expertise to successfully facilitate and manage this process. • Investment decisions are often a source of anxiety and uncertainty. Clear, transparent communication is required to set out exactly what is being decided, what consequences result from that, and what the financial implications are. • To ensure planning certainty, funding schemes should not end abruptly but be gradually adjusted over time. The possibility to combine regional government and neighbourhood-level subsidies could create additional incentives and facilitate project delivery. • The subsidy schemes for retrofitting projects provide valuable support and create a solid basis for decision-making. The ideal scenario would be a combination of federal and regional government funding, which together would allow a total funding rate of 100% for retrofitting projects. • WieNeu+ was crucially important to this project: without WieNeu+ it would never have got off the ground. The additional"Grätzlförderung" funding, in particular, was a decisive factor at the start. This project was supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. Project partners • Hausverwaltung Obermeier GmbH(property management company) • Schöberl& Pöll GmbH(structural engineers) 72

Anergy network start-up cells – ÖGUT Figure 41: Outreach event on anergy networks at the Municipal District Office for the 20th District, 2024.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl The Austrian Society for Environment and Technology(ÖGUT) assessed nine blocks of residential buildings with regard to their suitability for the installation of anergy networks. Anergy networks are an innovative alternative which to date have only been road-tested in a few isolated cases in Vienna. They involve multiple buildings sharing heat harvested from ambient environmental sources, i.e. low-temperature thermal energy from the ground, groundwater or the surrounding air. This energy is then warmed or cooled to the required temperature using heat pumps. Where individual solutions are technically difficult to implement due to lack of space, anergy networks serving multiple properties are a good and viable alternative. Their major advantage lies in the use of thermal energy at constant temperatures from the ground, groundwater or the surrounding air. This ensures a particularly efficient energy supply, both in hot summers as well as in very cold winters. To start with, eleven potential start-up cells were identified within the programme area and evaluated in a multi-phase process. Decisive criteria included distance from the existing district heating grid and the structural and legal status quo. After close consultation with property owners and other stakeholders, three blocks of residential buildings were selected on account of their especially high potential: • Kluckygasse, • Gaußplatz South and • Gaußplatz Northeast. 73

Alongside the technical analysis, the focus was on working with the property owners to successfully overcome obstacles such as majority decision-making, commonhold ownership structures and varying states of refurbishment. The project drafted recommendations for successful initiation and management of anergy network start-up cells and documented the findings as a set of guidelines for future projects. Takeaways& challenges • The Vienna Heating Plan clearly designates zones for expansion of the central district heating grid and zones for local, decentralised heating networks("Local collective heating" category). • Anergy projects are also eligible for subsidies, even in zones that can theoretically be connected to the central district heating grid, and this is an important incentive for innovative solutions. • Long-term planning is crucially important: decarbonisation of existing buildings calls for timely conversion concepts aligned with construction cycles and energy demand patterns. • External guidance from experienced consultants is crucially important, to provide property owners with professional advice and support from idea through to conclusion of the contract. • Projects like this require a permanent"facilitator" of some kind, i.e. someone to provide ongoing moderation, network-building and support over a period of several years. • Decision-making processes in commonhold associations are often protracted and subject to conflict. Without neutral external moderation or mediation, they frequently grind to a halt. • The high level of information required at the start and the subsequent realisation of the need to take action often lead to a slump in motivation. • A "first mover advantage" or staggered funding models could be used to reward those who act as start-up cells. • Property management companies are key actors: however, they must be specifically contracted to perform these tasks as they are not part of their usual administrative remit. Educational sessions and outreach events – e.g. by ÖVI(property sector training institute) or Hauskunft(the City of Vienna's renovation advice centre) – are important kick-off activities. • Model solutions, practical guides and/or recommendations – e.g. a practice-based"10 Step Plan" for anergy network projects – could go a long way towards eliminating the initial hurdles. This project was supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. 74

Project partners • Austrian Society for Environment and Technology(ÖGUT) 75

Alternative energy feasibility study: Castellezgasse 35-37, 1020 Vienna(commonhold association) Figure 42: The residential buildings at Castellezgasse 35–37© Schöberl& Pöll GmbH The commonhold association of the residential buildings at Castellezgasse 35 and 37(2nd district) commissioned Schöberl& Pöll GmbH to perform a feasibility study on converting the current gas-powered heating and hot water supply to a sustainable energy solution. The study analysed the use of a water/water heat pump based on thermal energy from groundwater. The two buildings differ in terms of their age and structural details: Castellezgasse 35(built 1884, thermal insulation retrofit 2010) and Castellezgasse 37(newly built 2010) have a combined gross floor area of over 4,300 m². At present they have a decentralised heating and hot water supply via gas boilers in the individual flats. The feasibility study shows that centralisation of the thermal distribution system is absolutely necessary. In future, thermal energy is to be generated and distributed from a new plant room in the basement. The funding eligibility criteria specify a maximum flow temperature of 40°C, so a hot water supply via additional booster heat pumps is envisaged. At the same time, the installation of rooftop photovoltaic panels is being considered to supply some of the electricity required by the heat pump and enhance the buildings' energy self-sufficiency. Takeaways& challenges • The heat supply in the existing buildings can be decarbonised, but requires centralisation of the thermal distribution system. 76

• Use of thermal energy from groundwater is technically feasible, but requires a detailed assessment of the geological situation and water legislation. • The funding criteria(flow temperature max. 40°C) necessitate an adapted system concept incorporating booster heat pumps.( Note: The funding criterion was amended as of 01/2024. The maximum flow temperature has now been increased to 55°C. ) • The use of rooftop solar potential can significantly reduce operating costs and CO₂ emissions. • The ownership structure(commonhold association) is a challenge: decisions require majority approval, but this makes implementation far more complicated. • The question of funding: investment costs and subsidy options are crucially important for project implementation. To date, solar panels have been installed on the flat roof. Further measures are currently being evaluated. This project was supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. Project partners • Castelletzgasse 35 and 37 commonhold association • Schöberl& Pöll GmbH(structural engineers) 77

Projects from the Community-building pillar Tenant empowerment Figure 43: Outreach events jointly organised with the Mieterhilfe tenants' advice centre provide tenants in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area with face-to-face objective information.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Particularly for socially disadvantaged groups, however, access to safe, affordable housing is often associated with a number of challenges and obstacles. WieNeu+ therefore decided to place the spotlight on tenants' rights. The aim was to provide local residents with timely preventive support to learn more about their rights as tenants and how to assert them. For this purpose, outreach events were jointly organised with suitable 78

partners who already have close links to the target groups. Working with the Mieterhilfe advice centre and the Municipal Department for Integration and Diversity(MA 17) ensured the delivery of comprehensive advice and support targeted at vulnerable and socio-economically disadvantaged households. The long-term aim is to ensure a good social mix in residential areas, facilitate participation in city life and foster social cohesion. Takeaways& challenges • Interest in preventive information is limited – in many cases the issue only becomes relevant when tenants are directly affected. • Cooperation with existing organisations that are already involved in activities with the target groups proved to be useful. Project partners • Mieterhilfe(City of Vienna tenants' advice centre) • Local Area Renewal Office(GB*Mitte) • Stadt Wien – Municipal Department for Integration and Diversity(MA 17) 79

Brigittenau Regional Waste Prevention Concept Waste prevention is the most effective way of conserving resources and an essential aspect of climate protection. With this in mind, WieNeu+ has launched a Regional Waste Prevention Concept in Brigittenau, Vienna's 20th district. The following measures are to be implemented over the coming years as part of the Waste Prevention Concept: 1. Shopping bag recycling boxes at Hannover Market 2. Information and awareness-raising activities on waste prevention 3. Swap shops and/or flea markets 4. Monthly litter pick-ups in the area around the market 5. wohnpartner book and household item banks(run by the municipal housing community support teams) 6. wohnpartner mobile planters/community gardens(run by the municipal housing community support teams) 7."Grätzlmarie" focus on waste prevention 8. Courses at adult education centres(VHS) on reuse/recycling, repair and cooking with leftover food In June 2025, the"Grätzlmarie" funding scheme successfully initiated a focus on waste prevention and circularity in the neighbourhood. The aim was to target funding at citizen-led projects working to help conserve resources, and 50% of the submitted projects addressed this issue. These were: • Kaps-Gartl(community gardening initiative) • ZIG – energy and resources • ZIG – community reporting • Weniger Müll im Grätzl – awareness-raising activities for waste prevention • Carrots in Jars Takeaways& challenges • When planning and implementing waste prevention measures in a neighbourhood, coordination and cooperation among policy-makers, waste management operations and other sectors of the economy is essential, and bringing local people on board to support the measures is especially important. • The"Grätzlmarie" ideas fund is a suitable tool for directing civic engagement toward specific urban renewal issues. Link to the press release: https://www.umweltbundesamt.at/news250422-abfallvermeidung-im-wienergraetzl(German) 80

The"Grätzlmarie" funding scheme Figure 44: Presentation of the"Grätzlmarie" projects© City of Vienna – GB* WieNeu+ has a special fund for local residents with ideas on how to make their neighbourhood more climate-resilient or fit for the future."Grätzlmarie"("Marie" is the Viennese slang term for money) provides funding for a host of activities, both large and small, which benefit the community and thus help to make life in the neighbourhood more enjoyable for all. An advisory board consisting of local residents and representatives of local initiatives decides which of the submitted projects will receive funding, and how much. Selected projects generally receive subsidies of between€500 and€8,000. The maximum funding sum per project is€30,000. The key selection criteria are as follows: • The project idea contributes to making the neighbourhood climate-resilient and future-proof. • The project's implementation benefits local residents and fosters community interaction. • The funding is used in an economically efficient, cost-effective manner. "Over 70 projects of many different kinds – from individual initiatives to activities by community associations – have already been implemented thanks to"Grätzlmarie", the WieNeu+ ideas fund. The great thing about it is that local residents on the neighbourhood advisory board decide for themselves which ideas receive funding. The result is initiatives that foster community interaction, kick-start social and ecological improvements and ensure better long-term quality of life in the 2nd and 20th districts." (Simon Büchler, member of the GB* team, works for WieNeu+ on the"Grätzlmarie" project) 81

The"Grätzlmarie" scheme: data, facts& figures Figure 45: Grätzlmarie, the WieNeu+ ideas fund(icon)© City of Vienna/MA 25 In the period from February 2023 to May 2025 there were eight project submission phases for Grätzlmarie – the WieNeu+ ideas fund. A total of 92 project ideas were submitted. Funding decisions were made by the neighbourhood advisory board, which had 16 members and 4 deputies and consisted of equal numbers of representatives from the City of Vienna and the local community. "Grätzlmarie" provided funding for a total of 42 community projects in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area with a total funding budget of €137,281 . 82

Infobox: Facts& Figures • Number of project ideas submitted: 92 • Number of funded projects: 42 • Total amount of funding: €137,281 • Thematic clusters:  Community-building& social(16 projects)  Mobility(5 projects)  Environment(4 projects)  Awareness-raising& sustainability(10 projects)  Arts& culture(7 projects) Find out more here: https://wieneuplus.wien.gv.at/graetzlmarie-projektetab_wmt2-rxak (German) 83

"Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on the Environment Lessinggasse school beekeeping project Figure 46: Experiencing nature with the beekeeping project at Lessinggasse Grammar School© GB*/Andrea Vetter The rooftops of the neighbourhood are abuzz with bees! As part of their optional module"School beekeeping project", pupils from Lessinggasse Grammar School looked after several beehives on the school roof. In doing so they learned all about bees, beeswax and honey, as well as how to market the harvested products. A"Beehive Open Day" was also held for local residents. Funding applicant: Paul Rieder and Gerold Fink Year implemented: 2023 84

Volkertparadiso urban greening initiative Figure 47: Volkertparadiso works with local residents to lay out new green areas in the urban space.© Alberto Franceschini The objective of the community project" Volkertparadiso – from closed road to community green space " was to design, plant and care for the green area between the buildings at Volkertstraße 6 and 8, which was created when a new school was built. Local residents were cordially invited to do some gardening while getting to know their neighbours, a further aim of the project being to create spaces for people to meet, socialise and interact. Funding applicant: Alberto Franceschini& the neighbourhood committee of the Momentum arts & cultural association Years implemented: 2023 to 2025 85

SAMBA community garden Figure 48: The SAMBA community garden is a green oasis where people from the neighbourhood come together. © City of Vienna/Markus Wache Open to all, the SAMBA community garden(Marinelligasse 6, 2nd district) was laid out in 2013 in cooperation with the Municipal Dept. for Parks and Gardens(MA 42) and the Municipal District Office for the 2nd District. The"Grätzlmarie" funding paid for maintenance and upgrade of the mains water connection, which now also serves as a source of drinking water. Figure 49: A garden that fosters social interaction and community spirit in the neighbourhood.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Funding applicant: Verein Garten SAMBA(community garden initiative) Year implemented: 2024 86

Biodiversity hedge at“Am Tabor” Figure 50: A biodiversity hedge for local residents© Am Tabor Lutheran Parish The existing strip of lawn outside Am Tabor Lutheran Church(Am Tabor 5) was planted with a selection of native shrubs. The new shrubs enhance the biodiversity of this unique little outdoor space, while the denser vegetation helps to cool down this section of the street space in the hot summer months. A park bench was also installed, where people can sit and relax under the mulberry tree. Figure 51: Biodiversity hedge outside Am Tabor Lutheran Church© Hanna Dechant Funding applicant: Am Tabor Lutheran Parish Year implemented: 2025 87

StadtNatur Nordwest – educational activities around biodiversity and healthy eating Figure 52: Educational outreach activities on the environment and healthy eating, from kindergarten upwards.© Verein GrätzlGemüse – Biodiversität findet Stadt The" GrätzlGemüse – Biodiversität findet Stadt " initiative organises educational outreach activities on the environment and healthy eating for kindergarten and primary school groups as well as local residents. A number of raised vegetable beds with seating have been installed on a plot of land at Nordwestbahnstraße 16 and are used as an edible learning space for informative workshops and public events. Figure 53: Food tastes better when you grow it yourself.© Verein GrätzlGemüse – Biodiversität findet Stadt Funding applicant: Verein“GrätzlGemüse – Biodiversität findet Stadt”(biodiversity education initiative) Year implemented: 2025 88

"Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on Mobility Lass dich gehen – initiative for pedestrians in the city Figure 54: The"Lass dich gehen" initiative aims to raise awareness for pedestrians in the city© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Various activities were organised with local residents in and along the streets of the neighbourhood around Wallensteinstraße to create greater awareness around barrier-free mobility for pedestrians of all age groups. The programme included a"traffic light race" for pedestrians, an outdoor games afternoon on a traffic-calmed street and walking tours of the neighbourhood led by"mobility scouts". Funding applicant: Geht-doch, the initiative for pedestrians and related campaigns in the public space Year implemented: 2023 89

"Wanderohrwaschln" – pop-up pavement extensions Figure 55: Pop-up pavement extensions: more space for pedestrian safety.© Ulrich Leth Over half of the street intersections in the Volkertviertel and Alliiertenviertel neighbourhoods have no pavement extensions(known as"Ohrwaschln", the slang word for ears in Viennese dialect), which presents a danger for pedestrians crossing at the junction. Traffic cones were placed at these road junctions over a period of several days to demonstrate how effective such extensions would be. Funding applicant: Geht-doch, the initiative for pedestrians and related campaigns in the public space Year implemented: 2023 90

FrauenInFahrt women's cycling initiative Figure 56: Women hitting the road on their bikes© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Over a two-month period, the FrauenInFahrt initiative offered free, low-threshold cycling lessons for women in the Volkertviertel and Alliiertenviertel neighbourhoods. Women with and without a migrant background were taught by certified cycling instructors in a total of eight sessions between 2023 and 2025. Funding applicant: Interessensgemeinschaft Fahrrad – Die Radvokaten(cycling lobby) Years implemented: 2023 to 2025 91

"Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on Awareness-Raising and Sustainability Human library Figure 57: Brightly-coloured children's paintings adorn the"human library"© Michell Formann In autumn 2023, a"human library" was installed on Brigittaplatz as an interactive knowledge exchange for use by people of all ages. Inspired by the prompt" Things you always wanted to ask your grandparents, but didn't dare... ” young people were able to ask questions that were then answered by senior citizens. The answers were then placed in the display case for everyone to read. Funding applicant: Patricia Lierzer Year implemented: 2023 92

Recipes for success Figure 58: Communal cooking forges links across generations and cultures© Verein Back Bone – Mobile Jugendarbeit 20 In autumn 2023 a special cooking event was held at Brigittenau Adult Education Centre, based on the"5 Gs" defined by children's rights expert Otmar Mittermayr –"communal","reasonably priced","healthy","intergenerational" and"fun"(all of which begin with the letter"G" in German). Involving members of the Karl-Meißl-Straße Senior Citizens' Club and young people from the Back Bone initiative, the focus was on shared activities and interaction between the 93

two groups. The communal cooking and eating event helped to strengthen solidarity and community cohesion in the municipal district of Brigittenau. Figure 59: Communal cooking is a fun activity that fosters community spirit.© Verein Back Bone – Mobile Jugendarbeit 20 Funding applicant: Verein Back Bone – Mobile Jugendarbeit 20(community youth work initiative for the 20th district) Year implemented: 2023 94

Computerg’schichten und Softwaresachen – free drop-in IT support Figure 60: Computerg'schichten workshop© City of Vienna/Judith Rosenkranz A free, low-threshold neighbourhood IT support initiative helps people with smaller IT problems they can't solve themselves or with the help of family and friends. Anyone can visit the free public once-a-month drop-in sessions at the"das Wallenstein" cultural centre to seek help with computer glitches, smartphone difficulties, and so on. "To start with we thought that senior citizens would be the target group for our IT support, but actually people of all ages turned up. After all, the questions and problems of everyday digital life affect young and old alike. Thanks to the support from"Grätzelmarie" we were able to hold our IT support drop-in sessions in a barrier-free space directly on Wallensteinplatz." (Cornelia RoiderKubat,"Grätzlmarie" funding recipient) Funding applicant: Cornelia Roider-Kubat Year implemented: 2024 95

Clothing repair workshops Figure 61: Clothing is a valuable commodity. This project highlights the value of repairing it.© Anita SmithPixabay The aim of this project was to allow young people to experience the value of repairing their own clothing. How can I prolong the life of my clothes? What skills and know-how do I need to do so? As well as passing on sewing tips and tricks, the"Grätzlmarie" project also aimed to show what fun communal sewing sessions can be. With this in mind, regular pre-planned group sewing sessions were held at the Verein Backbone youth centre, where young people used sewing machines to repair old, discarded items of clothing they had brought with them. Ideas were discussed within the group and then put into practice. Funding applicants: Cornelia Brunner, Verein Back Bone(community youth work initiative for the 20th district) Year implemented: 2024 96

Gemeinsam klimafit – Community climate action – workshops for repair and design at the queer feminist community hub Figure 62: Repair, upcycling and furniture-making workshops foster community life and help conserve resources. © Der Knoten This"Grätzlmarie" project was designed to foster community life and create awareness for sustainable consumption and conservation of resources with the aim of helping to protect the climate. The focus was on activities such as bike repairs, upcycling of unworn items of clothing and furniture-building using old scrap wood. The hub space— which was equipped with sewing machines and screen-printing equipment as well as woodworking tools— was open to the participants on three Sundays. The hub space also featured a"swap shop" corner where people were able to exchange used but serviceable items for free. Funding applicant: Der Knoten community hub Year implemented: 2024 97

Grätzl-Blattl community newspaper Figure 63: The GrätzlBlattl with local news and info for people in the neighbourhood© Grätzlblattl The" Grätzl-Blattl “ community newspaper acts as an information platform for the residents of the Volkertviertel and Alliiertenviertel neighbourhoods as well as local initiatives and institutions. The objective is to promote multicultural, multigenerational and multilingual dialogue. Funding applicant: GRÄTZL-BLATTL. Association for the promotion of communication, arts and culture in the Volkertviertel and Alliiertenviertel neighbourhoods Years implemented: 2023 to 2025 98

Carrots in Jars Figure 64: Local residents get together at the Carrots in Jars food preservation workshop© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Carrots in Jars organised four low-threshold events— three practice-based workshops plus a public discussion session— dealing with the subject of neighbourhood waste prevention. The events provided information about food preservation, circularity and conservation of resources while helping to foster community cohesion in Brigittenau(20th district). Funding applicant: CAN – Civil Action Network Year implemented: 2025 99

Weniger Müll im Grätzl – awareness-raising activities for waste prevention Figure 65: With a bit of skill and professional help, any bike can be repaired. Makes sense!© amtabor-evang.at A varied programme of events was organised to raise awareness for waste prevention in the local community. Two flea markets provided access to second-hand products, two repair workshops allowed participants to sharpen up their repair skills, and two litter-picking events helped to clean up the neighbourhood. Funding applicant: Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau Lutheran Parish Year implemented: 2025 100

Zukunft im Grätzl(community media project)"Community reporting: Where's the nearest bin?" Figure 66:"Where's the nearest bin?" Media workshop on community reporting© Verein 280 In two reporting workshops the young participants recorded an audio trail of conservations in their local neighbourhood, exploring topics such as cleanliness and community. In a follow-up media workshop, they then learnt the basics of radio production and put together an audio feature based on the recorded interviews. The resulting report was broadcast on Radio Orange 94.0 and also published in podcast format. Funding applicant: Verein 280 Prävention.Bildung.Teilhabe(community youth work initiative) Year implemented: 2025 101

Zukunft im Grätzl – energy conservation& waste prevention workshops Figure 67: Energy conservation workshop for young people, here with the focus on recycling© Envato This project invited young people from the neighbourhood to participate in two practicebased workshops where they learned about sustainable use of energy and resources. Combining theoretical know-how, practical exercises, creative techniques and an interesting tour of the Rautenweg landfill site, the workshops were designed to strengthen their everyday skills in energy conservation and waste prevention. Funding applicant: Verein 280 Prävention.Bildung.Teilhabe(community youth work intiative) Year implemented: 2025 102

"Hunger to participate" community kitchen Figure 68: The community kitchen project brings young people together.© Verein Back Bone The" BOK Gastro " training initiative and the Back Bone youth centre are a perfect match: healthy, nutritious, tasty meals were prepared in the BOK Gastro kitchen and then served up to youngsters at the Back Bone youth centre. The community kitchen prepared food for 35 to 40 regular visitors to the Backbone open sessions on Tuesday afternoons. A total of ten community kitchen sessions were planned and delivered during the project period. Funding applicant: Verein Back Bone – Mobile Jugendarbeit 20(community youth work initiative for the 20th district) Year implemented: 2025 103

Very Vacant_The Blank Space Within Figure 69: The t/abor community arts studio addresses the issue of vacant commercial premises© Das Tabor The Kaeshmaesh cultural initiative focussed on vacant commercial premises. Its t/abor community arts studio put on daily changing shows by different artists in the period from 5 to 11 May 2025, finishing off with a series of discussion sessions and performances. The project vividly highlighted the impact of vacant premises on the surrounding neighbourhood and the resulting ecological consequences. Funding applicant: Kaeshmaesh cultural initiative Year implemented: 2025 104

"Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on Community-building Frei-Tage street parties Figure 70: A Frei-Tag get-together on Darwingasse shows how the public space in front of the school can be used in different ways to bring people together.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl A series of three street parties transformed neighbourhood streets and thoroughfares— in this case Darwingasse, Volkertplatz and Aliiertenstraße— into places for people to linger and interact. The events also featured games like chess and badminton for people of all ages. The project offered an opportunity to engage with the issues of mobility, public space, climate adaptation, and safe recreational and physical activity spaces for children. The get-togethers strengthened community cohesion while opening up alternative spaces for interaction. 105

Figure 71: The Frei-Tage events are informal neighbourhood get-togethers in the public space.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Funding applicant: Eva Braxenthaler Year implemented: 2023 106

Begegnung durch Bewegung – community sport& fitness activities Figure 72: Social interaction at the sport& fitness sessions organised by CAN – Civil Action Network.© CAN – Civil Action Network CAN – Civil Action Network organised 16 free public outdoor sport& fitness workshops per year, eight each in the 2nd and 20th districts. The open-access format encouraged people of all ages and backgrounds to join in, enlivening the public space and fostering sustainable community interaction. Funding applicant: CAN – Civil Action Network Year implemented: 2023 to 2025 107

VolkertKüche community kitchen Figure 73: The VolkertKüche community kitchen project was all about fostering social connections through communal cooking and eating.© Julia Deitermann Talking brings people together – and cooking does too! As part of the"Grätzlmarie"-funded community kitchen project" VolkertKüche – Küche für Alle ", 2025 saw local residents get together for the third time to chat and enjoy free international cuisine on Volkertplatz. As well as fostering social interaction within the neighbourhood, the event also sent out a signal against isolation and in support of solidarity and community. Each of the six Saturday events over the past few years attracted between 60 and 90 participants. Funding applicants: Julia Deitermann, Eva Jahn Year implemented: 2023 to 2025 108

Women's plain language book club Figure 74: Coming together through conversation at the women's book club.© Margareta Klose The book club organised by the Piramidops education initiative brought women learning German at B1 level together for discussion and language practice. At a total of nine Saturday sessions, the book club met to read simple texts by female writers with a connection to Vienna, which were translated into plain language for group discussion. The project combined language practice with education around feminist and literary themes and encouraged discussion and participation in the public space. Funding applicant: Verein Piramidops(women's education initiative) Year implemented: 2025 109

Gemeinsam statt einsam im Grätzl – neighbourhood community activities Figure 75: A varied programme of events was organised to combat social isolation and foster connection.© Am Tabor Lutheran Parish A varied programme of interactive events was organised to combat social isolation and strengthen community spirit in the neighbourhood. Activities included a senior citizens' discussion group, two guided walking tours on"Viennese Stories and Legends" and two theatre workshops, plus a public after-work singalong workshop. Funding applicant: Leopoldstadt and Brigittenau Lutheran Parish Year implemented: 2025 110

Kaps-Gartl – community gardening at the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex Figure 76: The community gardening project brings people together and fosters social cohesion.(l. to r.) Pers. 1: name unknown, Pers. 2: Ivana Cucujkić- Panić(Volkshilfe), Pers. 3: name unknown, Pers. 4: Andrea Husner – municipal housing tenant, Pers. 5+6: municipal housing tenants – names unknown, Pers. 7: Christine DubravacWidholm(CMDC 20), Pers. 8: Silvia Jankovic(WrW), Pers. 9: Alexander Steffek(wohnpartner)© Christian Dusner The" Kaps-Gartl " community garden within this Wiener Wohnen municipal housing complex has become a hub for intercultural encounter. Everyone brings along their own plants and ideas for cultivation in the plastic- and pesticide-free garden. After receiving support from the "Grätzlmarie" scheme, the community garden— which is run in cooperation with Volkshilfe Wien and the Wohnpartner municipal housing community support teams— is now undergoing a significant upgrade. "Thanks to the"Grätzlmarie" funding I've been able to start designing a garden containing more than just vegetable beds; over the next year I hope it will blossom into a community meeting space for local residents." (Andrea Husner, Johann-Kaps-Hof tenant and recipient of"Grätzlmarie" funding) Funding applicants: Volkshilfe Wien(charity organisation), Wohnpartner(municipal housing community support teams) Year implemented: 2025 111

Public open-air theatre performances Figure 77:"Dreamland" for all ages at the theatre in the park.© Theater Frischluft Public open-air theatre performances, for all ages and free of charge. With"Dreamland" and "The Queens of Hearts", the" Frischluft community theatre association " brought two colourful theatre productions to the Grätzl 20+2 programme area in 2025. Funding applicant: Frischluft(community theatre association) Year implemented: 2025 112

"Karl-Petrasch" street party Figure 78: The"Karl-Petrasch" street party brings together local residents from Karl-Meißl-Straße and Petraschgasse© Loreena Schwarz-Zurek The"Karl-Petrasch" street party was held on Karl-Meißl-Straße and Petraschgasse on 16 May 2025, providing local residents with a great opportunity to get to know one another, forge contacts and swap ideas. This laid-back get-together with food and drink and a colourful, varied entertainment programme strengthened social cohesion and community spirit and laid the foundations for further initiatives in the neighbourhood. Funding applicant: Loreena Schwarz-Zurek Year implemented: 2025 113

"Grätzlmarie" projects: Focus on Arts& Culture FUTURE WORKS – creative urban design workshops Figure 79: Creative urban design workshops encourage young people to play a part in shaping the city© Future Works A total of five workshops on" Creative Urban Design " were held at the Augarten Grammar School to give the students an insight into the design of urban environments. The youngsters were encouraged to develop their creative abilities and play a future role in shaping their neighbourhood, equipping them to transform their concerns about the future into hope and a willingness to take action. Funding applicant: Red Carpet Art Award(youth arts initiative) Years implemented: 2023 to 2024 114

1zwei3 exhibition space in the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex Figure 80: Diverse art forms in a diverse housing complex make for exciting exhibitions.© Civil Action Network The" 1zwei3 exhibition space " project in the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex aimed to bring community art experiences to a wide audience and act as a low-threshold platform for integrating the visual arts, design and music into everyday life. Everyone was welcome to come in and look around, from art fans to the simply curious. The artists involved communicated with the local residents via posters on the public noticeboards, a newsletter and the open doors of the exhibition space. The project enabled a total of 14 artists to present their works to the public in 2024 and engage in dialogue with people in the neighbourhood. Funding applicant: 1zwei3(arts& cultural association) Year implemented: 2024 115

"The Loud Spring" – film screening and discussion at the Knoten Wien community hub Figure 81: The documentary"The Loud Spring" showed the consequences of the climate crisis while offering hope for the future.© Gerd Altmann-Pixabay The" Knoten Wien " community hub organised a screening of the film" The Loud Spring ". The documentary shows the negative impacts of the climate crisis but holds out a potential positive outlook for the future following a radical system change. The screening aimed to empower the audience and encourage them to engage in a discussion about what the future might look like. Funding applicant: Der Knoten community hub Year implemented: 2024 116

Beautii Klinik Figure 82: Beautiii Klinik Dr. Barbara Ungroomed, a pop-up art project© freepik " Beautiii Klinik Dr. Barbara Ungroomed " was conceived as a pop-up art project in the JohannKaps-Hof municipal housing complex. Combining free"beauty treatments" with performance art, it took a critical, humorous look at ideals of beauty, the cult of the body and consumer society. Funding applicants: Volkshilfe Wien(charity organisation), Wohnpartner(municipal housing community support teams) Year implemented: 2025 117

Birthday street party for Radio ORANGE 94.0 Figure 83: Neighbourhood street party to celebrate the 27th birthday of Radio ORANGE 94.0© Johann Redl To mark the 27th birthday of the community radio station Radio ORANGE 94.0 on 28 August 2025, O-Sounds organised a talk on media policy and two concerts at the station's community parklet on Gaußplatz. The event was designed to strengthen the local community, promote debate on media policy issues and showcase cultural diversity via music. Funding applicant: O-Sounds(local music initiative) Year implemented: 2025 118

Arts& culture programme in the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex Figure 84: Dance performance around the dead peach tree. 1zwei3© Marlene Mautner The" 1zwei3 arts& cultural association " is based at the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex. Between 30 May and 20 June 2025 the association put on a series of free pop-up exhibitions, performances, film screenings and concerts, as well as a permanent exhibition. A five-part event series explored the special emotional attachment people have to trees and the relationship between local residents and the precious green natural shade providers. Funding applicant: 1zwei3(arts& cultural association) Year implemented: 2025 119

Projects from the Neighbourhood development pillar Cool Zones Figure 85: Cool Zone© City of Vienna/Martin Votava Cool Zones are free, publicly accessible, cool interior spaces where the temperature does not exceed 25°C. The provision of these cool environments in the hot summer months is one of the measures foreseen in the Vienna Heat Action Plan. WieNeu+ set up the city's first two Cool Zones as part of a pilot project in 2023. 120

The pilot project involved opening the Greiseneckergasse Senior Citizens' Club in the 20th district as a Cool Zone for use by people of all ages over the summer months. The Verein Piramidops women's education initiative was also commissioned to provide a further Cool Zone at the Volkert Market, this time for use by women and children. The success of the first pilot year speaks for itself: the Cool Zones were heavily used. A total of over 2,000 visits were recorded, with 94% of the visitors in the evaluation survey saying that they had enjoyed their stay in the Cool Zone. "The Piramidops Cool Zone shows how the social and climate-related measures implemented under WieNeu+ mutually reinforce one another: it's easy to access, fosters social interaction and makes life in the neighbourhood much pleasanter for families. It clearly highlights the need for places where people feel safe, welcome and able to relax." (Mag. Alisa Cela-Goldgruber, project manager, Women's Cool Zone) Figure 86: The Cool Zone is a meeting place for women© Verein Piramidops Key messages from the supervisor feedback surveys With a total of 2,057 guests, the Cool Zones were very well received. Keeping to a maximum temperature of 26°C generally produced and maintained a pleasant, refreshing room climate. Besides providing a cool environment, the focus was also on creating an atmosphere conducive to social interaction. The respective local partner organisations organised language courses, celebrations(e.g. birthday parties) and other group activities, as well as offering a range of snacks(muesli bars, fruit, ice-cream, etc.) and refreshing drinks. 121

Figure 87: Results of the guest feedback surveys.© UIV 2023 Project upscaling The project was scaled up in the subsequent years: twelve Cool Zones were opened in Vienna in 2023, and by 2025 the number had already risen to 22. Responsibility for coordination of the Cool Zones now lies with City of Vienna's Directorate for Climate Matters. Takeaways& challenges • Cool Zones are well received by the public. • Familiar locations with an existing programme of activities and regular guests work better than completely new spaces. The main target group and their demographic characteristics therefore varies from location to location. • Nevertheless, the Cool Zones also attracted new visitors to the locations alongside the existing regular guests. • Regardless of the target group, people's primary focus is on social interaction and the opportunity to cool down. Actively engaged staff members in the respective locations are highly important. • Staff are also instrumental in attracting new guests. Most people surveyed heard about the Cool Zones from friends and acquaintances or through recommendations from other organisations and/or initiatives. Project partners • Urban Innovation Vienna(UIV)(City of Vienna climate and innovation agency) • Greiseneckergasse Senior Citizens' Club • Verein Piramidops(women's education initiative) This project was supported with funding from the"Grätzlförderung" scheme. 122

Volkert macht Blau – pilot project for climate adaptation measures Figure 88: GrünStattGrau'S MUGLI is a public info container that provides details of the various options for greening of roofs and facades. Seen here on Volkertplatz as part of the"Volkert macht Blau" project.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl " Volkert macht blau " was an interdisciplinary research project in the public space that was carried out on Volkertplatz in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area as part of WieNeu+. The objective was to find a solution for an integrated water management system, consider climate change adaptation and climate protection options, and develop various co-creation formats in a real-life setting. A key focus of the project was to develop a concept for installation of a so-called BARTLETT ("blue-green photovoltaic shading module"). The BARTLETT was designed to incorporate a shading element, photovoltaic panels and a"sponge city" water management system in a single unit. It highlights the technical challenges associated with urban heat islands and proposes concrete solutions. 123

Figure 89: Volkertplatz square© City of Vienna/GB* Takeaways& challenges • WieNeu+ proved its worth as a platform for applied research projects. • WieNeu+ provided the framework for development of the BARTLETT concept, which is now being adapted for further use by GrünStattGrau and the architectural practice Tillner& Willinger. • Precipitation falling on the photovoltaic roof structure can be channelled uncontaminated into an absorbent"sponge" element for storage and then used to irrigate nearby trees and plants. • The module cannot be installed in all locations for technical and/or economic reasons. • The municipal district, as the body funding construction of such a module for public spaces, cannot use solar power directly. Find out more here: https://www.twarch.at/index.php?inc=projectSelection&id=166:3636&lang_id=en(German) Project partners • Austrian Institute of Technology(AIT) • Grimm landscape architects • GrünStattGrau(research and innovation lab) • Tillner& Willinger architects • Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*), Neighbourhood Management team for the Nordbahnhof and Nordwestbahnhof development zones 124

Grätzlinitiative 20+2 programme Figure 90: Grätzlinitiative event at Wittmann bookshop,(l. to r.): ECC Peter Hanke, CMDC 20 Christine DubravacWidholm, Andrea Wittmann, DH MA 25 Stephan Hartmann, Deputy Mayor& ECC Kathrin Gaál© City of Vienna/Martin Votava "Grätzlinitiative 20+2" is a special funding programme developed by the Vienna Business Agency in cooperation with WieNeu+. It provides support and advice for small businesses, associations and social initiatives in the WieNeu+ programme area. 125

Grätzliniative 20+2 – Funding Figure 91: Grätzlinitiative 20+2 event,(l. to r.): ECC Peter Hanke, Andrea Wittmann, CMDC 20 Christine Dubravac-Widholm, Deputy Mayor& ECC Kathrin Gaál© City of Vienna/Martin Votava The"Grätzlinitiative 20+2 Funding" programme ran until the end of 2025, providing entrepreneurs and community activists in the WieNeu+ programme area with support for the sustainable development of their business or initiative. This included investments in business premises – e.g. renovation works – or utilisation of services(e.g. marketing). 41 of the 53 submitted projects were approved for support. Grätzlinitiative 20+2 disbursed around€385,000 in funding to the selected projects. https://www.wien.gv.at/video/4261/Graetzlinitiative-20plus2(German) ECC Peter Hanke, Grätzlinitiative 20+2, 1.10.2024© City of Vienna Grätzlinitiative 20+2 – Call for Projects The"Grätzlinitiative 20+2 Call for Projects" in 2024 invited submission of innovative use concepts to revitalise vacant ground-floor premises. 63 projects were submitted, which far exceeded expectations. The ten best submissions were selected and provided with comprehensive support in locating suitable premises. They were also given the opportunity to launch a crowdfunding initiative with assistance from project partner imGrätzl.at and take part in information workshops and 1:1 consultations. 126

The projects that succeeded in renting vacant ground-floor premises in the WieNeu+ programme area within the five-month deadline will receive a subsidy from the Vienna Business Agency to cover 50% of the rental costs for the next three years. Figure 92: The winning applicants of the Grätzlinitiative 20+2 Call for Projects.© City of Vienna/Martin Votava Three projects were successful, each of which are now revitalising ground-floor premises in the WieNeu+ Grätzl 20+2 programme area: • the HoLi Social Health Hub (Taborstraße 61/1/R11, 2nd district), • the "Ouvertura+ GeLa Ochsenherz" community food co-ops (Heinestraße 30, 2nd district) and • the Gebärdenverse initiative (Klosterneuburger Straße 89, 20th district), which provides support and activities for deaf people. 127

More about the winning projects The HOLi Social Health Club will be the first health centre to work with the so-called "weight-neutral" value system, which places the focus on reducing excess body weight through behavioural changes and ending weight stigma. The holistic health centre will incorporate consultation and therapy rooms and a fitness suite. The "Ouvertura& GeLa Ochsenherz" community food co-ops aim to provide a space for fair, sustainably produced food. Their"Solidar:Raum" premises not only supply the neighbourhood with affordable produce from organic, community-supported growers; the space is also used as a hub for meetings, themed public events and courses, with a community kitchen to follow in the near future. The "Deaf Spaces" run by the Gebärdenverse initiative will be a cultural hub for deaf people and the first"third space" for Vienna's Deaf community(apart from home and workplace) where Austrian Sign Language is the standard language. The premises will be open to members of the community free of charge and host a varied programme of courses and events. "At our"Solidar:Raum" premises, our community food co-ops supply local residents and people from all over Vienna with organic produce, regardless of their individual financial situation. Co-op members can also use the space for their own activities and we host a wide-ranging programme of events, soon to include a community kitchen project. The whole initiative is based on the principles of the solidarity economy, which we are translating into everyday grassroots action. We wouldn't have dared to take this step without the unbureaucratic, hands-on support we received from WieNeu+." (Julia Ochsenknecht, Solidarraum Ouvertura) 128

Figure 93: The team from the Solidar:Raum Ouvertura and GeLa Ochsenherz community food co-ops— from utopia to reality.(c) Ouvertura community food co-op crowd2raum The"Grätzlinitiative 20+2 Call for Projects" was implemented as part of the research project "crowd2raum" by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency(FFG), which explored different approaches for activation of vacant premises in Vienna and Graz. A special focus was on piloting the so-called"matchfunding" approach: this combines crowdfunding with an additional financial incentive from specially created funding pools, which in Vienna's case were provided by the Vienna Business Agency. imGrätzl.at acted as project lead, with Stadtlabor Graz and WieNeu+ as the other members of the research consortium. The findings of the oneyear project were published in a report for knowledge transfer purposes. Takeaways& challenges • Demand for affordable ground-floor premises is very high. • There is a discrepancy between apparently vacant premises and those that are actually available. Only a fraction of the vacant premises are actually offered for rent on the market. • Contacting the owners of vacant ground-floor units is difficult and challenging, and attempts to do so usually remain unsuccessful. • Finding premises is especially difficult for associations: many property owners will not rent to associations as the latter are not usually entitled to deduct input VAT. 129

Figure 94: Kathrin Gaál, ECC for Housing& Urban Renewal, officially opens the Grätzlinitiative project"Deaf Spaces" on Klosterneuburger Straße.(l. to r.) Stephan Hartmann(WieNeu+), Franz Steinbrecher(Chairman Gebärdenverse initiative), Kathrin Gáal(Deputy Mayor& ECC), Dominic Weiss(Vienna Business Agency)© City of Vienna/ Martin Votava Project partners • Vienna Business Agency • imGrätzl.at(local community crowdfunding platform) • Stadtlabor Graz(urban development consultancy) • City of Vienna – Wiener Wohnen(municipal housing agency) Links to further information: https://wieneuplus.wien.gv.at/graetzlinitiative-20plus2(German) https://wieneuplus.wien.gv.at/graetzlinitative-20plus2-call(German) https://projekte.ffg.at/projekt/5124532 https://presse.wien.gv.at/presse/2025/11/06/gaal-novak-frische-ideen-gegen-leeregeschaefte-graetzlinitiative-der-stadt-wien-foerdert-erfolgreiche-neugruendungen(German) 130

Stadtkern_PLUS spatial project Figure 95: WieNeu+ team members Julia Haberfellner(l.) and Ruth Fartacek(r.) present the project at the Kreative Räume Wien symposium, April 2025.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl The Stadtkern_PLUS project established spatial commons in existing city neighbourhoods with a view to producing a positive social, inclusive and sustainable impact. Within the context of the project, spatial commons were understood to mean spatial resources that are shared and collectively managed for the benefit of the community. Project activities • Information-gathering, assessment of local needs and establishment of a stakeholder network o Neighbourhood morphology and socio-spatial analysis o Analysis of the legal framework o Survey on space requirements in Vienna • Knowledge- and capacity-building for the set-up of spatial commons o Use of various formats to build networks of local stakeholders on the demand side o Building of capacities for local spatial commons networks o Development of a range of models for spatial commons • Organisation and set-up of initial pilot projects o Grätzlzentrum+: The Grätzlzentrum+ community space is located in a former kindergarten in the Johann-Kaps-Hof municipal housing complex. Since early 131

2025 the premises have been under the management of the charity organisation Volkshilfe Wien, which makes them available free of charge as a low-threshold, flexible-use space for local people and initiatives. o RaumCoop pilot: The non-profit association RaumCoop organises sharedspace projects, activates underused premises in the ground-floor zone for nonresidential use and makes these available for temporary use at affordable rates. RaumCoop road-tested the concept in a pilot phase from autumn 2024 to spring 2025. However, the RaumCoop project could not be continued after the pilot phase for lack of a financial backer. o RaumBooster by imGrätzl.at: Using a combination of crowdfunding and funding from other sources, Raumbooster helps local stakeholders to activate (vacant) premises or keep spaces already in use. Takeaways& challenges • Community-based sharing of spatial resources(spatial commons) is a beacon of hope for sustainable development of existing urban areas. Multiple-use cooperatives in underused spaces not only make environmental sense, but are also desirable from the social perspective. Urban renewal programmes thus have great potential for making affordable space available to local grassroots activists – aside from classical projects to activate vacant properties for interim use. • The implementation of the three initial pilot projects confirmed that spatial commons embedded in the local neighbourhood generate socially robust, continuously renewed practical expertise and build supportive networks. • Sharing of spaces requires extensive knowledge in many different fields(regarding legal, structural, financial and organisational aspects, etc.) and substantial investments of time and resources by the involved stakeholders. To this end, the City of Vienna can create and/or develop support structures to relieve the burden on those sharing the space. The project received funding from the Austrian Climate and Energy Fund and was implemented as part of the programme" Beacon Projects for Resilient Cities 2040 – 2021 call for proposals ". The project ran for 38 months in total(03/2022 – 04/2025). The publication" Sharing: Possible! – Praktiken des Teilens in der städtischen Erdgeschoßzone " (Mara Haas/Christian Peer/Dominik Wagner/Paul Hahnenkamp)("Sharing: Possible! – Sharing Practices in Urban Ground-Floor Zones"), produced as part of the Stadtkern_PLUS project, is free to download. 132

Link Download the publication"Sharing: Possible! – Praktiken des Teilens in der städtischen Erdgeschoßzone"(German) Project partners • future.lab Research Center, TU Wien(project lead) • Law Research Unit, TU Wien • morgenjungs GmbH(digital platforms consultancy) • Volkshilfe Wien(charity organisation) • City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal(MA 25) • RaumCoop e.V(non-profit association) • City of Vienna – Wiener Wohnen(municipal housing agency) 133

"Wiener Wäldchen" mini-woodlands project Figure 96: Tree planting for the first"Wiener Wäldchen" mini-woodland in Brigittenau(20th district) with CMDC Christine Dubravac-Widholm and ECC Jürgen Czernohorsky© City of Vienna/Elia Stefan "Wiener Wäldchen" are very dense, highly biodiverse and fast-growing mini-woodlands covering an area approximately the size of a tennis court. The idea of planting small, fencedoff patches of wilderness("Tiny Forests") in the middle of cities originated in Japan. As well as fostering biodiversity, after several years of growth the mini-woodlands should also have a noticeable cooling effect on their immediate environment. WieNeu+ took up this innovative idea and planted a"Wiener Wäldchen" at Pappenheimgasse 31 in the 20th district. The mini-woodland is thriving and has already become an invaluable patch of wilderness in the heart of the city. The first"Wiener Wäldchen" was created in the Stefan-Weber-Park in the 5th district in 2022. At present there are fourteen of them all over the city. The medium-term objective is to find suitable sites for more of these mini-woodlands in all 23 municipal districts of Vienna. 134

Figure 97: Major planting efforts underway for the Pappenheimgasse"Wiener Wäldchen" in November 2023.© City of Vienna/Elia Stefan Takeaways& challenges • The"Wiener Wäldchen" are growing well on all sites where they have been planted, despite the varying soil qualities and maintenance schedules. • Universities, organisations and local authorities in Austria and abroad, as well as various departments within the Vienna municipal administration, have all shown great interest in the project. • The opportunity to participate in the planting is very popular among(primary) school classes and is an aspect of the project that creates real added value in terms of environmental education. • In the districts inside the Gürtel ringroad it is currently difficult to find suitable sites, as "residual spaces" have usually already been planted with trees and/or infilled with buildings, or do not appear suitable from the traffic safety perspective(e.g. trees obstructing lines of sight or overhanging the road). 135

Figure 98: Now in its second year, the Pappenheimgasse"Wiener Wäldchen" is flourishing.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl Project partners • City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Environmental Protection(MA 22) • City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Parks and Gardens(MA 42) • City of Vienna – Forestry Office and Urban Agriculture(MA 49) • City of Vienna Chief Executive Office – Executive Group for Construction and Technology(coordinator) • Municipal District Office for the 20th District Find out more here: https://www.wien.gv.at/umwelt/wiener-waeldchen(German) 136

Städte.Gärten.Vielfalt(Cities.Gardens.Diversity) Figure 99: A roadside flowerbed for everyone with the"Städte.Gärten.Vielfalt." project.© City of Vienna/Julia Haberfellner " Städte.Gärten.Vielfalt " is an Interreg project in cooperation with Bratislava, with Global 2000 as the project lead. The project will see the two cities implementing urban gardening projects over a three-year period to enhance biodiversity. The pilot area in Vienna is Jägerstraße in the 20th district, between Wallensteinplatz and Gaußplatz. Flowerbeds were installed on the two grass verges and planted with a specially selected biodiverse seed mixture to create a habitat for insects, particularly butterflies and bees. The residents of Jägerstraße now have the opportunity to take on the care of one of the flowerbeds. As part of a community planting workshop in the spring, local residents who had signed a care& maintenance agreement were able to help with the planting of their own personal flowerbed. To date, approx. 50% of the available flowerbeds have been allocated, with a further 25% to follow in autumn 2025 and the final 25% in spring 2026. The development of the plants is regularly monitored by Global 2000. WieNeu+ has commissioned the Local Urban Renewal Office to manage the community participation aspects. 137

Figure 100: First day of planting on Wallensteinstraße.© Global 2000/Eva Gänsorfer Takeaways& challenges • High demand from the local community to take on the care of a flowerbed in the public space. • After the intense interest at the start, the task now is to keep the urban gardeners engaged over the long term. • The increasingly hot summers in Vienna are a major challenge, especially with regard to care and maintenance of green spaces. • Long-term acceptance of the project needs to be fostered within the local neighbourhood to help prevent vandalism and littering as far as possible. Project partners • Global 2000(environmental protection NGO) • Local Area Renewal Office(GB*Mitte) 138

The WieNeu+ project environment Programme partners The WieNeu+ programme has a diverse range of stakeholders. A full list of project partners can be found here: https://wieneuplus.wien.gv.at/projektpartnerinnen(German) Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal(MA 25) Programme and Group Manager: Stephan Hartmann Deputy Programme Manager: Helene Scheller The WieNeu+ team: Katarina Esatovic, Ruth Fartacek, Julia Haberfellner, Arthur Mannsbarth, Jenny Puchner, Judith Rosenkranz-Lichtner, Helene Scheller, Bojan Schnabl, Birgit Schwarzenberger, Elia Stefan, Ulla Weinke. Homepage: https://wieneuplus.wien.gv.at/english Newsletter: https://www.wien.gv.at/newsletter/wieneuplus/ 139

The journey continues... The new WieNeu+ programme areas: Hernals& Floridsdorf WieNeu+ is firmly established as the City of Vienna's core urban renewal programme and was included in the policy programme of Vienna City Council(see below). In 2026, WieNeu+ will launch in the municipal district of Hernals. Given that climate-proof refurbishment and energy retrofitting projects, in particular, require longer lead times, initial contacts with potential project partners, property owners, etc. were already established in mid-2025. This included outreach events for commonhold associations and individuals with an interest in subsidies for rear courtyard greening projects. 140

Figure 101: District Head of Hernals Peter Jagsch, Deputy Mayor& Executive Housing Councilor Kathrin Gaál, Deputy Head of Department MA 25 Stephan Hartmann(l. to r.)© City of Vienna/Martin Votava Extract from the policy programme: "Record sums for refurbishment and climate-proofing of housing … The City of Vienna is investing record sums in refurbishment and projects to phase out gas and retrofit renewables: the funding budget for housing refurbishment has been more than doubled, increasing from€112 million to€260 million. At neighbourhood level, the"WieNeu+" initiative provides funding for projects to make the local living environment climate-resilient and fit for the future." Source: Policy programme 2025, p. 113, https://www.wien.gv.at/regierungsabkommen2020/(German) "A further package of measures for retrofitting and climate-proofing of housing: … The"WieNeu+" urban renewal initiative is being rolled out to new districts: already up and running in Favoriten, Brigittenau, Leopoldstadt and Hernals, the next stop will be Floridsdorf. The objective remains the same: making neighbourhoods fit for the future, with active involvement of local people on the ground. The aim is to create tangible added value for people living in existing buildings, who benefit from refurbishment of their living environment und revitalisation of their local neighbourhood thanks to smart urban renewal." Source: Policy programme 2025, p. 117, https://www.wien.gv.at/regierungsabkommen2020/(German) 141

Get involved The standard WieNeu+ programme components will also be available in Hernals, including the two funding schemes"Grätzlförderung" and"Grätzlmarie". Get involved in shaping your living environment! Make use of the chances and opportunities WieNeu+ offers! As always, the one-stop contact point for all local matters in the Hernals programme area is the Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*). For all the latest information about project funding and events, please visit the WieNeu+ or GB* websites. WieNeu+ programme management: E-mail: wieneuplus@ma25wien.gv.at Web: wieneuplus.wien.gv.at Local Area Renewal Office(GB*) for Hernals: Local Area Renewal Office(GB*) for the 7th, 8th, 9th, 16th, 17th and 18th districts Haberlgasse 76, 1160 Vienna Tel.:+43 1 406 41 54 E-mail: west@gbstern.at Web: www.gbstern.at 142

Appendix List of abbreviations& glossary • approx. – approximately • BIM – Building Information Modelling • CMDC – Chair of Municipal District Council(e.g. CMDC 20 – Chair of the Municipal District Council for the 20th District) • DH – Deputy Head(of municipal dept.) • DNSH – do no significant harm • ECC – Executive City Councillor • e.g. – for example • esp. – especially • FH – University of Applied Sciences(German: Fachhochschule) • GB – Local Urban Renewal Office(German: Gebietsbetreuung Stadterneuerung) • GB* – Local Urban Renewal Office(German: Gebietsbetreuung Stadterneuerung) • GFA – Gross floor area • GWP – Global Warming Potential • HER – Heat Energy Requirement • incl. – including • kWh – kilowatt-hours; kWh/m²a – kilowatt-hours per square metre per year(annum) • kWp – kilowatt-peak • (l. to r.) – from left to right • MA – Municipal Department(German: Magistratsabteilung)(MA 25= Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal) • Madaster – a digital material passport that documents and monitors the reuse potential of materials within buildings to promote circular construction practices • max. – maximum • MIA – Metropolitan Innovation Action(urban planning consultancy) • MVPP/VCC – Member of Vienna Provincial Parliament& Vienna City Council • MWh/a – megawatt-hours/year • OIB – Austrian Institute of Construction Engineering(German: Österreichisches Institut für Bautechnik) • PV – photovoltaic(s) • SanDekVo 2024 – Refurbishment and Decarbonisation Ordinance of the City of Vienna (German: Sanierungs- und Dekarbonisierungsverordnung der Stadt Wien) • Vienna University of Technology& Engineering(German: TU Wien, Technische Universität Wien) • WrW – Wiener Wohnen(municipal housing agency) • WSW – Wohnservice Wien(social housing service hub) • ZIFA – Vienna Circularity Factor 143

List of Figures Figure 1: The Grätzl 20+2 programme area© City of Vienna/MA 25...............................................7 Figure 2: Kathrin Gaál, Deputy Mayor and ECC for Housing, Urban Renewal and Women's Issues© WSW/David Bohmann...............................................................................................................9 Figure 3: Alexander Nikolai, Chair of Leopoldstadt Municipal District Council(2nd district)© Astrid Knie....................................................................................................................................................11 Figure 4: Christine Dubravac-Widholm, Chair of Brigittenau Municipal District Council(20th district)......................................................................................................................................................... 13 Figure 5:(l. to r.) Stephan Hartmann(DH MA 25, WieNeu+ Programme Manager), Otto Eckl (Head of MA 25)© City of Vienna/Markus Wache............................................................................ 15 Figure6: Three years of WieNeu+ in Grätzl 20+2© City of Vienna/WieNeu+............................. 20 Figure 7: Grätzl 20+2 facts& figures© City of Vienna/WieNeu+................................................... 21 Figure 8: Beacon projects in the Grätzl 20+2 neighbourhood© City of Vienna/WieNeu+....... 22 Figure 9: WieNeu+ – an integrated approach to urban renewal© City of Vienna/WieNeu+... 24 Figure 10: WieNeu+ launch in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area with(l. to r.) Marianne Bügelmayer-Blaschek(AIT), Otto Eckl(Head of MA 25), Hannes Derfler(former CMDC 20), Kathrin Gaál(Deputy Mayor& ECC), Selma Arapović(MVPP/VCC), Alexander Nikolai(CMDC 2), Stephan Hartmann(WieNeu+), Andrea Mann(GB*), Werner Auer(wohnfonds_wien), March 2023 © City of Vienna/Martin Votava..................................................................................... 25 Figure 11: Local Urban Renewal Office(GB) stand at the Alliiertenviertel street party© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl............................................................................................................................. 26 Figure 12: An ideas workshop fosters innovative ideas through networking, as seen here in the Wallensteinviertel neighbourhood.© Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*).................................... 27 Figure 13: Guided neighbourhood walks are popular events, like this one in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood with speaker Helene Scheller(holding pennant) and Stephan Hartmann in the foreground.© City of Vienna/Markus Wache................................................................................... 28 Figure 14: Children model their ideas for the city— here at the annual Vienna Housing Day event in Rudolf-Bednar-Park.© City of Vienna/Jennifer Puchner................................................ 28 Figure 15: URBIS conference, Brno(CZ), May 2024© URBIS Conference.................................... 29 Figure 16: Face-to-face meetings with international partners are also crucially important: Helene Scheller with international colleagues at the URBIS Conference in Brno, 2024.© URBIS Conference................................................................................................................................................ 30 Figure 17: Outreach event informing people in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood about the decarbonisation bonus© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl.................................................................. 31 Figure 18: Grätzl 20+2 regular partners' meeting, May 2024© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl 35 Figure 19: The WieNeu+ project environment within the municipal administration© City of Vienna/MA 25........................................................................................................................................... 36 Figure 20: The WieNeu Alliiertenviertel+ neighbourhood© wohnfonds_wien........................... 39 Figure 21: The WieNeu Alt-BrigitteNeu neighbourhood© wohnfonds_wien.............................. 40 Figure 22: Forecourt greening in front of the municipal housing complex at Klosterneuburger Straße 99-105© Wiener Wohnen......................................................................................................... 42 Figure 23: Retrofit workshop© Jennifer Fetz..................................................................................... 45 144

Figure 24: Hartlgasse 22, 1200 Vienna© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl....................................... 49 Figure 25: Regulatory framework – circularity in the construction sector, Digital findet Stadt (digital platform for innovations in the construction sector)........................................................... 50 Figure 26: Am Tabor Lutheran Church, an architectural gem built in the period 1913 to 1926. © City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl........................................................................................................... 52 Figure 27: The late-19th-century building at Nordwestbahnstraße 27 with its historically valuable structured facade© Schöberl& Pöll GmbH........................................................................ 54 Figure 28: Gaußplatz 5: Sketch showing the community space in the newly greened rear courtyard.© Mair-Paar Architektenbüro(architects)....................................................................... 56 Figure 29: Street party in the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood© City of Vienna/Markus Wache ...................................................................................................................................................................... 58 Figure 30: Logo graphic of the Alliiertenviertel"climate pioneer neighbourhood"© City of Vienna......................................................................................................................................................... 59 Figure 31: The Local Urban Renewal Office(GB*) team(l. to r.): Julia Halbauer, Lena Diete and Nino Gamsjäger© City of Vienna/Bubu Dujmic................................................................................. 61 Figure 32: Facade of the renovated building at Eberlgasse 3 in the 2nd district. district.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl........................................................................................................................ 62 Figure 33: Wien Energie local district heating substation© Wien Energie/Max Kropitz........... 63 Figure 34: On-site information: the Phasing Out Gas container, Am Tabor© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl............................................................................................................................. 64 Figure 35: Bird's-eye view of the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood© City of Vienna................... 65 Figure 36: Climate pioneers of the Alliiertenviertel,(l. to r.) Corinna Gulder, Jeffrey Waldock, Kevin Waldock, Wolfgang Suchy© City of Vienna/Stephan Grundei........................................... 66 Figure 37: Change is only possible if you take people along with you. Climate pioneers of the Alliiertenviertel neighbourhood with Alexander Nikolai, CMDC 2(6th from left), Deputy Mayor & ECC Kathrin Gaál(5th from right), Head of MA 25 Otto Eckl(4th from right) and Stephan Hartmann© City of Vienna/Stephan Grundei................................................................................... 67 Figure 38: Miesbachgasse 10© City of Vienna/Christian Fürthner............................................... 68 Figure 39: Group tour of the loft installations in WOHNBAU's Miesbachgasse project. © City of Vienna/Markus Wache.......................................................................................................... 69 Figure 40: Facade of Ybbsstraße 6© Helmut Schöberl..................................................................... 71 Figure 41: Outreach event on anergy networks at the Municipal District Office for the 20th District, 2024.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl.................................................................................. 73 Figure 42: The residential buildings at Castellezgasse 35–37© Schöberl& Pöll GmbH............ 76 Figure 43: Outreach events jointly organised with the Mieterhilfe tenants' advice centre provide tenants in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area with face-to-face objective information. © City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl............................................................................................................78 Figure 44: Presentation of the"Grätzlmarie" projects© City of Vienna – GB*.............................. 81 Figure 45: Grätzlmarie, the WieNeu+ ideas fund(icon)© City of Vienna/MA 25....................... 82 Figure 46: Experiencing nature with the beekeeping project at Lessinggasse Grammar School © GB*/Andrea Vetter.............................................................................................................................. 84 Figure 47: Volkertparadiso works with local residents to lay out new green areas in the urban space.© Alberto Franceschini............................................................................................................... 85 145

Figure 48: The SAMBA community garden is a green oasis where people from the neighbourhood come together.© City of Vienna/Markus Wache................................................ 86 Figure 49: A garden that fosters social interaction and community spirit in the neighbourhood. © City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl............................................................................................................ 86 Figure 50: A biodiversity hedge for local residents© Am Tabor Lutheran Parish....................... 87 Figure 51: Biodiversity hedge outside Am Tabor Lutheran Church© Hanna Dechant............... 87 Figure 52: Educational outreach activities on the environment and healthy eating, from kindergarten upwards.© Verein GrätzlGemüse – Biodiversität findet Stadt............................... 88 Figure 53: Food tastes better when you grow it yourself.© Verein GrätzlGemüse – Biodiversität findet Stadt................................................................................................................................................ 88 Figure 54: The"Lass dich gehen" initiative aims to raise awareness for pedestrians in the city© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl................................................................................................................ 89 Figure 55: Pop-up pavement extensions: more space for pedestrian safety.© Ulrich Leth...... 90 Figure 56: Women hitting the road on their bikes© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl.................... 91 Figure 57: Brightly-coloured children's paintings adorn the"human library"© Michell Formann ...................................................................................................................................................................... 92 Figure 58: Communal cooking forges links across generations and cultures© Verein Back Bone – Mobile Jugendarbeit 20............................................................................................................. 93 Figure 59: Communal cooking is a fun activity that fosters community spirit.© Verein Back Bone – Mobile Jugendarbeit 20............................................................................................................. 94 Figure 60: Computerg'schichten workshop© City of Vienna/Judith Rosenkranz..................... 95 Figure 61: Clothing is a valuable commodity. This project highlights the value of repairing it.© Anita Smith-Pixabay................................................................................................................................. 96 Figure 62: Repair, upcycling and furniture-making workshops foster community life and help conserve resources.© Der Knoten....................................................................................................... 97 Figure 63: The GrätzlBlattl with local news and info for people in the neighbourhood© Grätzlblattl................................................................................................................................................. 98 Figure 64: Local residents get together at the Carrots in Jars food preservation workshop© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl................................................................................................................ 99 Figure 65: With a bit of skill and professional help, any bike can be repaired. Makes sense!© amtabor-evang.at................................................................................................................................... 100 Figure 66:"Where's the nearest bin?" Media workshop on community reporting© Verein 280 ..................................................................................................................................................................... 101 Figure 67: Energy conservation workshop for young people, here with the focus on recycling © Envato....................................................................................................................................................102 Figure 68: The community kitchen project brings young people together.© Verein Back Bone ..................................................................................................................................................................... 103 Figure 69: The t/abor community arts studio addresses the issue of vacant commercial premises© Das Tabor........................................................................................................................... 104 Figure 70: A Frei-Tag get-together on Darwingasse shows how the public space in front of the school can be used in different ways to bring people together.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl ..................................................................................................................................................................... 105 Figure 71: The Frei-Tage events are informal neighbourhood get-togethers in the public space. © City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl.......................................................................................................... 106 146

Figure 72: Social interaction at the sport& fitness sessions organised by CAN – Civil Action Network. © CAN – Civil Action Network.............................................................................................107 Figure 73: The VolkertKüche community kitchen project was all about fostering social connections through communal cooking and eating.© Julia Deitermann................................. 108 Figure 74: Coming together through conversation at the women's book club.© Margareta Klose.......................................................................................................................................................... 109 Figure 75: A varied programme of events was organised to combat social isolation and foster connection.© Am Tabor Lutheran Parish.......................................................................................... 110 Figure 76: The community gardening project brings people together and fosters social cohesion.(l. to r.) Pers. 1: name unknown, Pers. 2: Ivana Cucujkić- Panić(Volkshilfe), Pers. 3: name unknown, Pers. 4: Andrea Husner – municipal housing tenant, Pers. 5+6: municipal housing tenants – names unknown, Pers. 7: Christine Dubravac-Widholm(CMDC 20), Pers. 8: Silvia Jankovic(WrW), Pers. 9: Alexander Steffek(wohnpartner)© Christian Dusner.............. 111 Figure 77:"Dreamland" for all ages at the theatre in the park.© Theater Frischluft................. 112 Figure 78: The"Karl-Petrasch" street party brings together local residents from Karl-MeißlStraße and Petraschgasse© Loreena Schwarz-Zurek..................................................................... 113 Figure 79: Creative urban design workshops encourage young people to play a part in shaping the city© Future Works......................................................................................................................... 114 Figure 80: Diverse art forms in a diverse housing complex make for exciting exhibitions. © Civil Action Network......................................................................................................................... 115 Figure 81: The documentary"The Loud Spring" showed the consequences of the climate crisis while offering hope for the future.© Gerd Altmann-Pixabay........................................................ 116 Figure 82: Beautiii Klinik Dr. Barbara Ungroomed, a pop-up art project© freepik.................... 117 Figure 83: Neighbourhood street party to celebrate the 27th birthday of Radio ORANGE 94.0 © Johann Redl.......................................................................................................................................... 118 Figure 84: Dance performance around the dead peach tree. 1zwei3© Marlene Mautner....... 119 Figure 85: Cool Zone© City of Vienna/Martin Votava....................................................................120 Figure 86: The Cool Zone is a meeting place for women© Verein Piramidops.......................... 121 Figure 87: Results of the guest feedback surveys.© UIV 2023...................................................... 122 Figure 88: GrünStattGrau'S MUGLI is a public info container that provides details of the various options for greening of roofs and facades. Seen here on Volkertplatz as part of the"Volkert macht Blau" project.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl......................................................................123 Figure 89: Volkertplatz square© City of Vienna/GB*......................................................................124 Figure 90: Grätzlinitiative event at Wittmann bookshop,(l. to r.): ECC Peter Hanke, CMDC 20 Christine Dubravac-Widholm, Andrea Wittmann, DH MA 25 Stephan Hartmann, Deputy Mayor& ECC Kathrin Gaál© City of Vienna/Martin Votava..........................................................125 Figure 91: Grätzlinitiative 20+2 event,(l. to r.): ECC Peter Hanke, Andrea Wittmann, CMDC 20 Christine Dubravac-Widholm, Deputy Mayor& ECC Kathrin Gaál© City of Vienna/Martin Votava........................................................................................................................................................ 126 Figure 92: The winning applicants of the Grätzlinitiative 20+2 Call for Projects.© City of Vienna/Martin Votava............................................................................................................................127 Figure 93: The team from the Solidar:Raum Ouvertura and GeLa Ochsenherz community food co-ops— from utopia to reality.(c) Ouvertura community food co-op.......................................129 147

Figure 94: Kathrin Gaál, ECC for Housing& Urban Renewal, officially opens the Grätzlinitiative project "Deaf Spaces" on Klosterneuburger Straße.(l. to r.) Stephan Hartmann(WieNeu+), Franz Steinbrecher(Chairman Gebärdenverse initiative), Kathrin Gáal(Deputy Mayor& ECC), Dominic Weiss(Vienna Business Agency)© City of Vienna/ Martin Votava.............................130 Figure 95: WieNeu+ team members Julia Haberfellner(l.) and Ruth Fartacek(r.) present the project at the Kreative Räume Wien symposium, April 2025.© City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl ..................................................................................................................................................................... 131 Figure 96: Tree planting for the first"Wiener Wäldchen" mini-woodland in Brigittenau(20th district) with CMDC Christine Dubravac-Widholm and ECC Jürgen Czernohorsky© City of Vienna/Elia Stefan...................................................................................................................................134 Figure 97: Major planting efforts underway for the Pappenheimgasse"Wiener Wäldchen" in November 2023.© City of Vienna/Elia Stefan..................................................................................135 Figure 98: Now in its second year, the Pappenheimgasse"Wiener Wäldchen" is flourishing. © City of Vienna/Bojan Schnabl......................................................................................................... 136 Figure 99: A roadside flowerbed for everyone with the"Städte.Gärten.Vielfalt." project. © City of Vienna/Julia Haberfellner................................................................................................... 137 Figure 100: First day of planting on Wallensteinstraße.© Global 2000/Eva Gänsorfer...........138 Figure 101: District Head of Hernals Peter Jagsch, Deputy Mayor& Executive Housing Councilor Kathrin Gaál, Deputy Head of Department MA 25 Stephan Hartmann(l. to r.) © City of Vienna/Martin Votava.......................................................................................................... 141 148

Contact for enquiries about the report City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal(MA 25) WieNeu+ urban renewal programme E-mail: wieneuplus@ma25wien.gv.at Tel.:+43 1 4000 25 108 Sign up for the WieNeu+ newsletter here: https://www.wien.gv.at/newsletter/wieneuplus/ Publishing details WieNeu+ in the Grätzl 20+2 programme area: Integrated urban renewal in Brigittenau and Leopoldstadt, 2023-2025. Published by: City of Vienna – Municipal Department for Technical Urban Renewal(MA 25), Maria-Restituta-Platz 1, 1200 Vienna. English translation: Angela Parker Contact person: Stephan Hartmann, WieNeu+ Programme Manager Editorial team: Helene Scheller, Stephan Hartmann, Bojan Schnabl, Judith RosenkranzLichtner, Ruth Fartacek, Julia Haberfellner, Jennifer Puchner, Birgit Schwarzenberger, Elia Stefan. Printed by: Municipal Department 21B(MA 21B) – Printing Office of the City of Vienna, Friedrich-Schmidt-Platz 1, 1010 Vienna. 11/2025. No liability is accepted for the accuracy and completeness of the information contained herein, or for any printing and typesetting errors. 149

150