Spatial sufficiency in the building and real estate sector

The building and real estate sector accounts for a significant share of society’s climate impact and resource use. At the same time, many premises and spaces are empty or used less than they could be. In the SpaSu project, IVL and its partners explore how existing buildings can be used more efficiently to reduce the need for new construction.

Over four years, the SpaSu project brings together researchers from several disciplines and a range of stakeholders to understand and apply the principles of spatial sufficiency in Sweden’s building and real estate sector.

Together, they will investigate how much underused space exists in Sweden, what prevents property owners and users from making better use of these spaces, and which policy measures and working methods can support change.

By identifying, categorising and quantifying underused or vacant spaces, the project aims to develop a roadmap for transforming how buildings are planned, used and regulated.

The project combines research, practical case studies and policy development. This includes developing indicators for measuring spatial sufficiency, creating future scenarios, mapping economic barriers and opportunities, developing policy proposals, and collecting data from case studies in the existing building stock.

Through research articles, seminars and policy proposals, the project will share new knowledge and support change in the building and real estate sector. The long-term aim is to establish spatial sufficiency as a key strategy for sustainable urban development, with relevance both in Sweden and internationally.