THE IMPACT OF URBAN FORM ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE WITHIN TIONG BAHRU ESTATE

Abstract

The benefits and impacts of neighbourhood design have been explored in many developed countries, especially in the UK. In Singapore, residential models mainly provided by the Housing Development Board are planned to maximise spaces and liveability of its end-users. However, the Tiong Bahru residential estate, since granted its conservation status in 2003, have been organically growing within the same urban layout designed before Singapore gained her independence. This study explores the benefits of these unique design concepts on the quality of life of the residents within the estate. A survey questionnaire was formulated after an urban analysis was conducted in the form of a site study. Interviews were also carried out with a senior property manager of the Tanjong Pagar Town Council and retailers from the estate. A one-way t-test was conducted to understand the satisfaction level and perceptions of the residents and Pearson Correlation analysis was carried out to understand the relationship between the urban area and the quality of life. Key findings of this study include significant relationships between transportation structure, social interactions and housing conditions. Traffic safety issues, pride, adequacies in functions of spaces and cleanliness of the estate were also investigated in the study. The analysis provided is complemented with the perceptions of the Town Council for their role in maintaining and enhancing the urban space of Tiong Bahru.