Large-panel housing architecture represents a major component of twentieth-century urban development, particularly in Eastern Europe, where it became closely linked to socialist ideology, postwar reconstruction, and centrally planned housing policies under Soviet influence. This study examines the historical, social, economic, and political conditions that shaped the rapid introduction of prefabricated concrete construction systems, commonly known as “large-panel” or “plate” buildings, with a primary focus on Poland and selected countries of the Eastern Bloc. The paper explores the political role of large-panel housing as an instrument for implementing socialist planning principles and reshaping urban landscapes through mass-produced residential forms. It analyzes how these construction methods responded to severe housing shortages during the period of the Polish People’s Republic (PRL), while influencing the architectural character, density, and spatial organization of post-war cities. Particular attention is given to the current technical condition of large-panel housing stock, including its structural durability, thermal performance, and projected lifespan. The study also discusses Poland’s housing crisis in relation to revitalization costs, public perceptions, and the role of governmental policy in supporting modernization efforts. Despite concerns regarding construction quality, expert assessments increasingly indicate that many large-panel buildings may remain structurally sound for years under appropriate maintenance and renovation regimes. Finally, the research highlights the importance of large-panel housing in today’s urban environments, emphasizing both its historical significance and its future potential. Comparative examples from Germany and the Netherlands illustrate parallel challenges and emerging strategies for adapting prefabricated housing estates to social, environmental, and architectural standards.