The HU-VOLUTION project aimed to equip European universities with the necessary tools to upskill and reskill habitat designers, ensuring they can successfully transition to the principles of the New European Bauhaus (NEB) and Society 5.0. The project sought to raise awareness about the importance of a human-centric approach to habitat design, define the competencies required for sustainable, aesthetic, and inclusive design, and create a Joint Curriculum tailored for higher education institutions. By launching a free, open-access training resource focused on life-centric perspectives, functionality, and sustainability, the project supported universities in adapting their curricula to meet the future needs of the habitat sector. Additionally, the project aimed to bridge the gap between higher education and industry by fostering collaboration and shared methods, ultimately contributing to the green transition and reducing skill mismatches in the labor market.
The HU-VOLUTION project was initiated to address the challenges facing the European habitat industry, which has been significantly impacted by recent crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. As a vital sector, there is an urgent need to enhance its resilience, sustainability, and adaptability. The project aligns with the New European Bauhaus (NEB) and Society 5.0 principles, which emphasize sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusion. By focusing on re-Skilling and up-Skilling professionals, particularly within small and medium-sized enterprises, the project aims to equip them with the green skills and methods necessary to meet evolving demands. This initiative also supports lifelong learning, preparing professionals to design sustainable, beautiful, and inclusive environments. Furthermore, it responds to the EU’s call to place environmental sustainability at the heart of education and training systems, helping the industry transition towards more resilient and resource-efficient practices.