Observed Social Activities around Low-Cost Flats

Abstract

While policy efforts of social integration focus heavily on provision of big public spaces and amenities, the actual impacts on social engagements remain uncertain. At the same time, the social potentials of outdoor spaces surrounding the homes, has been neglected. Everyday activities in these spaces have been highlighted to affect social encounters, casual surveillance, and shared norms. In attempt to look at these potentials, the present study compares the influence of three common flats layouts on outdoor activities among residents. Data derived from systematic behavioural observation of social activities is statistically tested to analyse for variations across three different types of flats. Findings reveal that the different outdoor near home spaces contain varying domestic, social and retreat activities generating liveliness in the low-cost environment. These appeals of outdoor liveliness, differently influence social encounters and engagement, in relation to the ways by which flats are being laid out.