The LeiSan flagship project focuses on the climate-neutral renovation of the Komposch-Ebene residential quarter in the municipality of Eisenkappel-Vellach, located in the Austrian province of Carinthia. The aim of the project was to demonstrate how socially inclusive, technically feasible, and ecologically effective transformation of existing housing stock can be achieved in smaller municipalities. The central research question was: How can energy-efficient renovation, social inclusion, and sustainable neighborhood development be combined under limited financial conditions?

The initial situation was characterized by a typical rural-touristic setting with high living standards but stagnant population growth. The quarter comprises six multi-storey residential buildings constructed between the 1960s and 1980s. Three buildings have undergone partial modernization, while the remaining three are in urgent need of renovation. Eisenkappel-Vellach is part of the Austrian e5 program for energy-efficient and climate-friendly municipalities and actively pursues a pioneering role in sustainable development.

The project developed comprehensive foundations for climate-neutral renovation. This included a detailed analysis of the structural, energy-related, and social conditions, active involvement of residents, and the development of a modular renovation concept. Particular attention was paid to the social compatibility of the measures, as the buildings are still inhabited and the tenant structure is socially diverse. Planning was carried out in close coordination with the municipality, architectural firms, and residents.

For the most deteriorated building, No. 331, a thermally and barrier-free renovation was identified as the preferred option. This includes insulation of the building envelope, window replacement, installation of an elevator, and improvement of shared spaces. For buildings 317 and 318, three tiered packages of measures were developed. The combination of Package A (accessibility and basic technical renovation) and Package B (energy renovation and improved living quality) was rated as optimal. Structural expansion through attic conversion (Package C) was discarded due to economic concerns.

A key component of the project was the development of an energy concept based on the use of locally available renewable energy sources. Integration of photovoltaic systems on roofs and facades, participation in renewable energy communities, and sector coupling with mobility infrastructure were explored. The PV yield forecast showed an annual potential of approximately 85,700 kWh, which could also be used for the adjacent public swimming pool and e-mobility infrastructure.

In addition, a comprehensive concept for green and social spaces as well as mobility was developed. Measures for heat mitigation, biodiversity promotion, urban gardening, and traffic calming aim to enhance the quality of life and strengthen social cohesion. Participatory planning with residents led to tangible outcomes such as a community orchard, new meeting points, and a "ride-sharing bench" as a low-threshold mobility solution.

The results demonstrate that a modular and phased implementation strategy is particularly suitable for flexibly meeting technical, social, and economic requirements. Early involvement of housing subsidy authorities and residents proved essential for the acceptance and funding eligibility of the measures. The application of New European Bauhaus principles – sustainability, aesthetics, and social inclusion – was successfully integrated into the architectural and neighborhood development approach.

Looking ahead, the renovation of building 331 is currently in the submission phase. For buildings 317 and 318, accessibility improvements and balcony retrofitting are being prepared. The municipality aims to implement socially acceptable rent adjustments, developed in cooperation with residents. The project outcomes will be disseminated through networks such as RENOWAVE.AT and serve as a model for other rural regions. The experience highlights the need for stable funding frameworks and integrative planning processes in social housing.

The LeiSan project clearly demonstrates that even under challenging conditions, a forward-looking path for social housing can be pursued – with high relevance for Austrian housing policy and the European climate strategy.

Project management

Municipality of Eisenkappel-Vellach

Project or cooperation partners

• Hohengasser Wirnsberger Architekten ZT-GmbH
• Joyjoy studio ZT-GmbH
• Renowave.at eG

Marktgemeinde Eisenkappel Vellach
Christian Sadolschek
Bad Eisenkappel 260
A-9135 Bad Eisenkappel
Tel.: +43 (4238) 83 11 20
E-mail: christian.sadolschek@ktn.gde.at
Web: www.bad-eisenkappel.info