LIVABILITY IN SINGAPORE'S PUBLIC HOUSING: A STUDY OF THE INTERNAL PUBLIC SPACES WITHIN THE HOUSING BLOCK

Abstract

Singapore’s public housing has gone through extensive development since its inception, giving rise to various housing block designs over the years that have adapted to the changing needs of the nation. With each modification, the layout of the block has been rearranged to improve the various conditions that relate to the practical livability of the built environment, namely in terms of its physical environment, safety and security, accessibility and social environment. In addition to that, there has been greater levels of experimentation in the design of public housing within the last few years; these developments employ a variety of design strategies with the intent of creating a more conducive environment for living but how successful have these developments been in achieving a livable environment for its residents?

Focusing on the individual housing block, this study looks at its internal public spaces such as the corridor spaces, void decks and lift lobbies; the shared spaces that serve both the residents and the public. Examining the importance of such spaces in the daily lives of its residents and the communal usage of such areas, this study seeks to understand the impact of the different design strategies in influencing the lives of its residents; ultimately, to provide an insight into the design of the housing block and recommend a direction for the future in the design of the public housing block.