Alt-Erlaa housing complex turns 50 as thermal renovation begins

Vienna’s Alt-Erlaa housing complex in Liesing is marking its 50th anniversary with a comprehensive renovation aimed at improving its energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, ORF reports. Around 9,000 people live in the complex, designed by architect Harry Glück.

Mayor Michael Ludwig described Alt-Erlaa as “a city within a city for 9,000 satisfied people” during a ceremony on Friday. He said resident satisfaction was above 90 percent.

Architecture critic Reinhard Seiss praised the complex’s extensive green spaces, from private terraces that he compared to “small biotopes” to the large landscaped area between its three blocks. He also described the maintenance of the housing complex as exemplary.

When Alt-Erlaa opened 50 years ago, its generous green spaces, communal facilities and good public transport connections were considered visionary. Housing councillor Elke Hanel-Torsch called it “a shining example of social housing that is internationally recognised.”

The renovation covers 3,182 apartments in blocks A, B and C. About 24,000 windows, terrace doors and loggia doors will be replaced, while the facades and insulation will be renewed. The work covers around 103,000 square metres.

In addition, 780 deep probes will be installed to make the complex’s energy supply more climate-friendly. The heating energy demand is expected to fall by 50 percent. Completion is planned by the end of 2028.