Architectural design and epidemic prevalence: Insights from Hong Kong's fifth wave

Abstract

Understanding spatiotemporal patterns of COVID-19 transmissions and their relationships with the built environment is crucial for effective pandemic prevention. While existing research has primarily focused on the locations inhabited or visited by COVID-19 cases, limited attention has been given to the spatiotemporal pattern of transmission locations and their associations with architectural design forms. This study addresses this research gap by examining the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of COVID-19 transmission locations and their associations with residential building forms in high density context of Hong Kong during the fifth wave of the outbreak. Employing information on n = 319 residential buildings with a restriction-testing declaration, we report that attributes of building blocks, especially design forms, and housing type were associated with transmission rates. Our findings revealed that public housing were more vulnerable to COVID-19 pandemic relative to private housing block. Relative to the L-shaped building form, Y- and X-shaped building forms had the lowest COVID-19 prevalence, adjusting for other factors. The study results provide valuable insights for urban designers, health authorities and policymakers regarding keys attributes of building forms and types that influence the transmission dynamics of COVID-19, exemplifying the role architectural design has on pandemic prevention. Evidence generated from this study can be tested in other high density contexts as we prepare to risk-proof our cities from future pandemics.