Sasha Tsenkova Books

Focusing on the transition from centrally-planned to market-based economies, the book examines the significant shifts in housing policy following the end of state socialism. It highlights the decline of housing as a political priority and the emergence of diverse housing systems in post-socialist countries, where traditional state-controlled approaches have faltered. The work investigates whether these new systems are more efficient and equitable, challenging the idea of convergence in housing policies and suggesting that future developments will likely diverge significantly.

The book explores urban dynamics in post-socialist Europe 15 years after the fall of communism. The ‘urban mosaic’ metaphor expresses the complexity, diversity and uniqueness of the processes and spatial outcomes in post-socialist cities. The book examines the urban development and the policy and planning processes that have resulted from the socio-economic, political, and institutional transformations characterizing the move to markets and democracy. The emerging urban phenomena are illustrated with in-depth case studies, sensitive to historical themes, cultural issues and the socialist legacy. Cities featured in the book include: Kazan, St. Petersburg, Moscow, Warsaw, Prague, Komarno, Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest, Sofia and Tirana. The edited volume is organized around the following four themes: the driving forces of post-socialist change; urban processes and spatial change; housing and retail sector transformation; and urban planning and policy responses.

Focusing on the transition to democracy and market economies, the book analyzes housing policy reforms across 27 countries. It emphasizes seven critical domains, including political support, effective institutions, land management, housing finance, quality improvement, investment sustainability, and access to affordable housing. Through comparative research, it highlights the importance of a supportive policy environment and well-designed instruments to enhance housing system performance. The strategic recommendations tackle challenges like affordable housing shortages and informal settlements.

Focusing on the energy-efficiency retrofit programs in Canada's social housing sector, this book evaluates their efficiency and effectiveness through an interdisciplinary lens. It analyzes key policy instruments—regulatory, fiscal, and institutional—using empirical data from case studies and interviews. The text emphasizes strategies for achieving green and affordable housing while addressing climate change and resilience. Its insights are valuable for researchers, policymakers, and social housing organizations, offering lessons for North America and other regions with similar housing challenges.