The role of collaborative housing initiatives in public value co-creation – a case study of Freiburg, Germany

Abstract

This article reviews the role of collaborative housing initiatives in public value co-creation. Collaborative housing initiatives have emerged in response to the growing need for affordable housing and stable neighbourhood networks against the background of shifts in social values, a mobilised society, and austerity measures on the part of the welfare state. This study focuses on investigating citizens’ motives to participate in a collaborative housing initiative and their role in public value co-creation. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected between December 2017 and March 2018 using a mixed-methods approach and analysed. The findings reveal that dimensions related to social sustainability – such as civic engagement, inclusion and integration, and diversity and social mix – enhance people’s attitude towards collaborative housing projects. Practical implications and avenues for future research are discussed.