The housing crisis in Slovenia has become a social crisis for all of us. The absence of an effective housing policy and real estate tax, along with speculative investments in real estate, have contributed to the rising property prices. Tourism has caused gentrification of cities and forced people to move out as apartments are used for short-term rentals to tourists. The lack of non-profit rental housing and outdated rental prices, combined with the need for renovation, pose additional problems. Unaffordable luxury new developments cater only to a handful of the wealthiest, while young people struggle to access their own homes. The rising property prices are a result of high demand, limited supply of new constructions, and increased construction costs. All these factors contribute to the housing crisis, which requires effective measures. Meanwhile, as the construction of luxury housing accelerates, multi-apartment buildings and neighborhoods built during socialism are being neglected. Most of these apartments need renovation, as they are outdated, not adapted to current needs, and energy-inefficient. One such building is the mixed-use complex SPB-1 in Domžale. All parties involved, including the municipality and co-owners, are aware of the accumulated problems. However, despite numerous efforts for renovation, nothing concrete has happened to date, more than forty years after its construction. The visibly dilapidated facade, dim and largely abandoned public passage on the ground floor, high monthly housing costs, and angry letters from dissatisfied residents testify to the urgent need for renovation. The renovation is planned in four phases: demolition, existing structure rehabilitation, addition of new elements, and a new programm scheme, with the aim of improving living conditions, user experience, and enhancing the role of the mixed-use complex SPB-1 in the urban life of Domžale.
|