Urban planning influences the distribution of resources, including housing and employment opportunities, and thus plays a crucial role in shaping the physical and social fabric of cities. In this context, municipal housing is often a good reflection of social policy.
In Vienna, municipal housing aims to create livable and affordable housing for all and to counteract social segregation. But what about the realities, opportunities, and dreams of residents in municipal housing in the outer districts? Housing is a place where we position ourselves and where we are positioned, sometimes by others and sometimes by circumstances. There is often a discrepancy between projected ideas and the reality on the ground. We are told what we can and cannot do or achieve. External perceptions influence our individual self-perception and community identity, which are closely linked to urban spaces and the creation of inclusive communities. What freedoms of choice and individual possibilities does our environment offer us?
“In the end, we have different opportunities, but the same dreams.”
— Jasmin Biber
Using the example of the Franz-Koch-Hof municipal housing complex, photographer Jasmin Biber's visual exploration was complemented by an analytical approach by gender studies scholar Marie Rotter.
This series was created as part of the cooperative project "WIE WIR (NICHT) LEBEN" with Arbeiterkammer Vienna.
As part of the eponymous urban exhibition, which was on view from June 26 to September 1, 2024, at various locations across Vienna, TRÄUME UND BETON was presented in the windows of the Lerncafé, Volkertplatz 12 in 1020 Vienna.
