COMMUNAL SPACES IN SINGAPORE: PUBLIC HOUSING TYPOLOGIES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON VOID DECKS � UTILISATION

Abstract

The term “void deck” is a uniquely Singaporean one, referring to the ground floor of Housing Development Board (HDB) housing blocks. They are the ground level that has been left open as common sheltered space. The space is usually left blank for a potential mixed-use function, like a canvas waiting for residents to insert their very own activities in. The proximities of a void deck to a resident can range from casual gatherings where residents can assemble to meet friends or where children can run around, it may also house a form of business such as convenience shop, or an early education centre to a karaoke centre. Void decks could also hold as a venue for important celebrations, including birthday parties and weddings. Other times, they serve as places where we hold solemn gatherings following the passing of a loved one. It has been regarded as a form of culture, a mutual understanding amongst residents that it is a common shared space for different levels of privacy at different times. This flexibility of void deck has also demonstrated itself with an ever changing role in the housing block. Progressively, as the design of HDB housing blocks evolve to embody the aesthetics of progression and of a global city, the potential of void decks usages has also start to change by its progressive typology — the evolution of HDB block typologies have resulted in the under-utilisation of void decks. This study explores on the interrelationship between evolving housing block designs and community spirit. This study will also examine the design of various void decks of different housing block typologies in Queenstown estate to understand the extent of usage of communal facilities, so as to analyse the findings and conclude if current facilities encourage interaction amongst the residents residing in the HDB precinct. Only by understanding the new classifications and characterisations of the void deck, as well as how the designs of housing blocks affect the utilisation of void decks, can there be improvements on the social, organizational and design issues.