Why housing is so expensive—and how to fix it | Olaf Grawert | TEDxBerlin

Core Argument - The current real estate system prioritizes profit over social and ecological values, leading to unnecessary demolition and new construction [4][5][15] - This system is fueled by a legal framework that favors new construction through tax incentives, subsidies, and building codes, making renovation less profitable and more difficult [19] - A shift in perspective is needed to recognize the inherent value in existing buildings and prioritize renovation and transformation [21][30] Problem Statement - Every minute in Europe, a house is demolished, not by natural disasters, but by human hands, driven by real estate speculation [2][3] - By 2050, Europe will demolish 2 billion square meters of space, enough to house 50 million people, exacerbating the housing crisis [12][13] - The building sector is a major contributor to CO2 emissions (38%) and waste production (36%), significantly impacting the environment [14][15] Proposed Solution - Advocate for new laws and policies that make renovation and transformation the new norm, creating a social, ecological, and economic alternative to demolition [32] - Focus on renovating existing buildings, recognizing the social and ecological value they hold, and acknowledging the energy and resources already invested in them [22][31] - Implement innovative renovation techniques, such as prefabricated elements, to improve living conditions, reduce costs, and minimize disruption to residents [24][25][26] Supporting Evidence - Lacaton & Vassal's renovation project in Bordeaux, France, transformed 530 apartments while residents remained in their homes, demonstrating a viable alternative to demolition [23][24] - The Bordeaux renovation cost €55,000 per apartment, a third of the cost of a standard new apartment (€165,000), while also providing winter gardens and improved living conditions [26] - The renovation process took only two weeks to improve each resident's life, cut down heating bills, and boost local businesses [26]