PRIVACY AND DENSITY IN HIGH-RISE HDB DWELLINGS

Abstract

This study investigated the differences in perceived privacy levels of residents' of high-rise, high-density settings. The critical factors that affect their satisfaction with privacy was also examined and measured for their power of influence. Various variables were selected from the literature review and analysis was performed to determine their effect on perceived privacy. The 40-storey blocks of flats and the precinct where they are located was chosen as the study area as currently, they are the tallest Housing Development Board (HDB) flats. Data was collected from the residents residing within the precinct and the results generated from the data analysis suggested while an increase in external density appeared to have a negative impact on perceived privacy, an increase in floor level may assist in improving the residents' sense of privacy. Acoustic privacy appeared to be an important aspect of privacy for respondents and the number of units on the same level was found to be the leading factor in influencing perceived privacy. As heights of HDB flats are set to increase, this dissertation aims to provide a clearer understanding on the effect of density on perceived privacy levels so as to provide suggestions that will minimise the costs of high-density living and improve the quality of life for such dwellers.