A debate among policymakers and industry representatives highlighted hybrid construction as a way to expand housing supply, improve competitiveness and support Europe’s environmental objectives, enabling more effective responses to growing demand.
Europe’s housing crisis is prompting policymakers to consider industrialised and hybrid construction methods that combine materials such as timber, concrete and steel to accelerate delivery and improve performance. During a recent debate at the New European Bauhaus Festival, representatives from EU institutions, industry and research organisations noted that hybrid approaches could help respond to rising housing demand, labour shortages and the need to reduce emissions.
Participants highlighted that housing affordability has become a major political concern, with insufficient supply identified as a key driver. Estimates presented during the discussion indicate that Europe may need to build 10 million homes, with industrialised methods potentially reducing costs by 10–20% and shortening construction timelines by 20–50%. The Commission also emphasised the urgency of increasing annual housing output, noting that an additional 650,000 homes per year may be required beyond current forecasts.
Industry representatives explained that hybrid construction seeks to use each material where it performs best, enabling faster assembly and improved overall building performance. Examples presented during the debate illustrate how combining steel, concrete and wood can support both rapid construction and lower‑carbon outcomes.
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