Housing Design Research Articles

Affordable housing design in response to sociocultural context. A comparative study in Koya City

ABSTRACT Affordable housing design should respond to the socio-cultural context using adequate housing types. This study develops a theoretical framework for designing sustainable, affordable housing in Iraq based on learning from traditional architecture. It examines this framework by exploring famous traditional and modern types of affordable housing: type1 courtyard housing and type2 apartment buildings. Different values of sustainability are discussed, and three are elected: social qualities (safety and privacy), environmental qualities, and economic qualities (Compactness and Densification). An empirical study was conducted on the said types of affordable housing in Koya City to examine the proposed framework. The study results show that courtyard houses achieve sustainability values more than apartments. Traditional housing types can provide a sustainable environment with limited resources and simple manners. The paper’s main finding is that distributing inner outdoor spaces all over the housing area is critical to designing affordable housing for sustainability.

Assessment of Health-Oriented Layout and Perceived Density in High-Density Public Residential Areas: A Case Study of Shenzhen

Rapid urbanization has intensified public housing development and building density, posing significant challenges to residents’ well-being and urban sustainability. With the population of the Greater Bay Area on the rise, enhancing the spatial quality of public housing is now essential. The study proposed a quantitative framework to evaluate the relationship between the residential design elements and perceived density in high-density public housing neighborhoods. It employed a virtual reality perception experiment to analyze the relationship between significant spatial indicators and perceived density by investigating 16 high-density residential layout models in 3 configurations: Tower-Enclosed, Balanced Slab-Enclosed, and Staggered Slab-Enclosed. The results indicate that: (1) greater building height intensifies perceived density, leading to sensations of overcrowding and discomfort; (2) an increased sky ratio mitigates perceived density, fostering a more open and pleasant environment; (3) recessed residential facades enhance residents’ density perception; and (4) Staggered Slab-Enclosed Layout configurations receive the most favorable evaluations regarding perceived density. The authors attempt to go beyond current regulations to propose tailored solutions for Shenzhen’s high-density context, improving spatial efficiency and residential comfort in future public housing designs. The finding provides scientific evidence to support urban planners and policymakers in developing more resilient and sustainable high-density neighborhoods.

A Proposed Perspective for the Successful Deployment of Internet of Things in a Smart Home Environment

The Internet of Things (IoT) technology is used in smart homes to enhance comfort, security, and energy efficiency. This study outlines a theoretical framework for the deployment and dissemination of IoT technologies in intelligent residential environments. The framework of this study highlights the significance of many components that cater to people’s individual needs. The study offers a systematic explanation of IoT principles, tangible devices, services, data creation, software, applications, and logistical needs. Furthermore, it contains an extensive table that assists users in choosing the most appropriate resources and components. The study points to smart home systems based on IoT, which utilize sensors, controllers, and cloud solutions to manage data and provide user control while ensuring privacy and confidentiality. The study addresses various needs of users by utilizing a semantic vision framework for smart house design that guarantees economic advantages, enhanced security, and user contentment, ultimately leading to enhanced community interactions and the overall welfare of residents.

Post-occupancy evaluation (POE) of high-rise flats built using prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction (PPVC)

PurposeThere has been an increasing use of prefabricated prefinished volumetric construction (PPVC) in the construction of high-rise flats to enhance productivity and sustainability, but there have been little studies to evaluate if the use of PPVC satisfies construction quality and overall satisfaction with the flat. This study aims to evaluate how homeowners perceive living in PPVC flats after they have moved into their homes. This is done with a post-occupancy evaluation (POE) looking at total building performance (TBP) mandates covering spatial performance (SP), acoustics performance (AP), visual performance (VP), indoor air quality performance (IAQP) and thermal performance (TP).Design/methodology/approachData were collected through the use of a survey questionnaire which was developed based on literature review. The data gathered from 145 respondents were then analysed quantitatively using Jeffrey’s Amazing Statistics Program (JASP), Microsoft Excel and Comma-Separated Values (CSV) files. The data analysed were further validated through the use of interviews with industry professionals.FindingsBased on descriptive and inferential statistics, the key findings of this study are that most respondents are satisfied with their PPVC flats in terms of quality of construction, satisfaction, IAQP, TP, AP and VP. However, they are less satisfied with the interior of their PPVC flats.Originality/valueThis is the first ever POE in the world conducted with homeowners living in high-rise flats built using PPVC. The findings from the study highlighted homeowners’ concerns regarding the quality of construction, SP, and AP, particularly in the interior areas of the flats, and underscores the importance of considering homeowners' experiences and perceptions in the design and construction of PPVC housing.

Optimization and Structural Analysis of Automotive Battery Packs Using ANSYS

The development of new energy vehicles, particularly electric vehicles, is robust, with the power battery pack being a core component of the battery system, playing a vital role in the vehicle’s range and safety. This study takes the battery pack of an electric vehicle as a subject, employing advanced three-dimensional modeling technology to conduct static and dynamic analyses. Through weight reduction and structural optimization, an innovative power battery pack design scheme is proposed, aiming to achieve a more efficient and lighter electric vehicle power system. The main research tasks are as follows: Firstly, we designed the main load-bearing components of a certain electric vehicle’s power battery pack and established a three-dimensional (3D) model. Then, the model was simplified according to the actual stress conditions of the power battery pack of the electric vehicle and imported into finite element analysis (FEA) software. Next, based on the fundamental principles of the finite element method (FEM), we conducted static analyses under three conditions: bumpy road sharp left turn, bumpy road sharp right turn, and bumpy road emergency braking. The analysis results indicate that the strength of the battery pack meets the allowable requirements, suggesting that the lower housing design has significant redundancy, providing guidance for subsequent optimization. Finally, through modal analysis, we extracted the first six modes of the power battery box, with the first mode frequency being 33.69 Hz. This suggests that the battery pack may experience resonance during actual operation. Based on the static and modal analysis results, we proposed a structural optimization and lightweight design solution for a certain electric vehicle battery pack and compared it with the pre-optimization data.

Improving Housing Sustainability Through an Innovative Approach

The need for housing has always been a concern for societies throughout history, and for a long time, providing suitable housing has been a challenge not only for individuals but also for governments. Housing is a fundamental human need; however, access remains a significant challenge, especially for low-income families. Rapid urbanization exacerbates this issue and highlights the need for innovative and sustainable housing strategies that can support urban growth and improve living conditions for these families. This literature review examines housing strategies such as mixed-use developments, incremental housing, low-rent housing, retrofitting, micro-housing, co-housing, and green building through a comprehensive literature search and thematic analysis to address housing challenges comprehensively. The findings suggest that these strategies can significantly enhance spatial equity and promote sustainable urban development. This paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing practical recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and housing advocates, aiming to strengthen inclusive, equitable, and sustainable cities. The study emphasizes that appropriate design techniques, new materials, and technologies not only increase housing sustainability but also enhance affordability by reducing life cycle costs. This research establishes the link between sustainability and affordability in housing design and offers insights that can be adapted and applied in other areas with low-income groups.

Design of heat-resilient housing in hot-arid regions

Extreme heat events in urban areas increasingly challenge the capacity of electrical distribution systems to serve building cooling equipment under peak loads and, when power is interrupted, the thermal response of buildings that can delay the onset of dangerously high indoor temperatures. The design of new buildings and their operation can mitigate the risks of intense heatwaves, but architects and planners face a myriad of choices about what measures to select, and how best to estimate their individual and collective performance. To aid the design and operation of heat-resilient buildings, this paper takes a multidisciplinary approach that is novel in two key aspects. First, it evaluates the individual and aggregated impact of factors associated with architectural and urban design, equipment technologies, and human behavior. Second, its valuation metrics include the magnitude of peak electrical load, appropriate for assessing active measures aimed at reducing peak power, and the time after a power outage for indoor temperatures to reach levels associated with heat stress, an indication of the efficacy of passive (no power) measures. The application of the method in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region, where growing populations and demand for space cooling make it particularly relevant, relies on knowledge of building codes and local construction practice. Single-factor testing shows that pre-cooling produces the largest reduction in peak electrical load during a simulated four-day heatwave, followed by building adjacency, maximum temperature set point and equipment loads. A combination of all considered factors reduces peak power by 70% and shifts the reduced peak to a later hour. In response to a power outage, the incorporation of architectural factors (roof, wall and window thermal resistance above code minima, increased thermal mass, reduced glazing solar heat gain coefficient and window shading) reduces the time above a Heat Index of 28 °C (caution) in a week-long test period in which the power failure occurs at hour 40 from 119 to 53 h. The presented methodology applies broadly to other building types and to regions affected by very hot weather.

Evolution of the Planning Paradigm and Urban Design of Housing Complexes in the Context of Changing Challenges in Ukraine: Case of Lviv

The study provides a retrospective of the housing development in Lviv and the factors that affected it. Using the general process of housing evolution, the study focuses on the impact of the war as a catalyst that influenced the demand and volume of housing construction over the last decade. Moreover, it reflects the unprecedented demographic shift driven by the number of IDPs in Ukraine since the beginning of 2022. The study demonstrates that, due to the increased demand for housing, the approaches to the design of housing have changed in recent years, defining a new type of urban unit called a housing complex. The study aims to identify and examine the genesis and characteristics of the modern planning paradigm and urban design of residential architecture in Lviv in the context of shifting conditions. Spatial and urban characteristics, social indicators, resident focus, and urban influence evaluate the studied objects. The study results demonstrate key differences in planning philosophies and approaches to designing and constructing new housing, identifying qualitative differences between housing of the previous and current paradigms. A detailed examination and comparison of the studied complexes in Lviv reveals changes in the approach to their planning, reflecting the evolution from the inherited modernist approach to housing to the creation of sustainable planning. It also aims to determine the quality of Lviv's modern housing environment and the vector of its development.

Evolution of the Planning Paradigm and Urban Design of Housing Complexes in the Context of Changing Challenges in Ukraine: Case of Lviv

The study provides a retrospective of the housing development in Lviv and the factors that affected it. Using the general process of housing evolution, the study focuses on the impact of the war as a catalyst that influenced the demand and volume of housing construction over the last decade. Moreover, it reflects the unprecedented demographic shift driven by the number of IDPs in Ukraine since the beginning of 2022. The study demonstrates that, due to the increased demand for housing, the approaches to the design of housing have changed in recent years, defining a new type of urban unit called a housing complex. The study aims to identify and examine the genesis and characteristics of the modern planning paradigm and urban design of residential architecture in Lviv in the context of shifting conditions. Spatial and urban characteristics, social indicators, resident focus, and urban influence evaluate the studied objects. The study results demonstrate key differences in planning philosophies and approaches to designing and constructing new housing, identifying qualitative differences between housing of the previous and current paradigms. A detailed examination and comparison of the studied complexes in Lviv reveals changes in the approach to their planning, reflecting the evolution from the inherited modernist approach to housing to the creation of sustainable planning. It also aims to determine the quality of Lviv's modern housing environment and the vector of its development.

Passive House Design: A Possible Energy Efficient Option in the Building Sector of Nepal

The diversified geography of Nepal creates huge variations in the country's climatic zones; however, the building industry has so far used standardized methods that tend to neglect local climate conditions. Most of these standards then rely on energy-intensive mechanical systems to maintain indoor thermal comfort, without considering more viable and climate-responsive design methods. In this light, the development of a climate classification related to building design will help develop and encourage energy- and climate-effective building architecture in Nepal. The existing energy-saving practice in the building sector of the country is reviewed in this paper, and it outlines ways to improve the adaptation of energy-efficient methodology. It shows that passive houses are performing much better in comparison with modern constructions that are behind in terms of energy efficiency when compared with traditional homes. The study outlines the climate-specific design criteria and methodologies for various regions and sets the path for exploration of the passive house design process challenges and opportunities that might exist for wider diffusion. Also discussed are strategies to overcome the barriers and promote passive house construction, offering a pathway toward sustainable building practices in Nepal.

Wooden Käpylä - the birth of a garden city

ABSTRACT The Finnish Housing Reform Association was set up in 1910 to promote public housing with new social ideas in housing design. After World War I, the association took the initiative to design affordable housing for the district of Käpylä in Helsinki. Construction was postponed by the years of instability that followed the Civil War of spring 1918. In early 1920, the City of Helsinki organised the subscription of shares in the People's Housing Company Ltd. Four– or two–family houses and even dwellings consisting of a room and a kitchen were a huge improvement to rental barracks. The quality of housing further enhanced by garden plots and communal saunas. Construction of the district resulted in notable stylistic variety. The scale of the area and the new efficient timber construction system that aimed at affordability and short construction times made Wooden Käpylä exceptional. In 1960, a design competition was organised that, had it gone ahead, would have meant the destruction of the Käpylä. The competition drew sharp criticism, and in 1971 Wooden Käpylä became protected in the master plan. Today, the street plan offers surprising views and a sense of freedom relative to previous as well as concurrent enclosed blocks.

Investigation of thermal comfort and preferred temperatures among rural elderly in Weihai, China: Considering metabolic rate effects

As the population ages, the thermal environment indoors for the elderly has garnered extensive attention. However, current research on thermal comfort for the elderly is not comprehensive, particularly for rural elderly individuals who experience unique thermal perceptions and adaptation behaviors due to physical changes. Moreover, metabolic rates, which are often overlooked in thermal comfort studies for the elderly, play a crucial role. A year-long survey of thermal comfort was conducted in the rural areas of Weihai, a coastal city in China's cold region, collecting 203 questionnaires. Three different values of metabolic rates (recommended values, estimated values, and values calculated using Basal Metabolic Rate and Physical Activity Ratio) were analyzed. The results demonstrate that the Basal Metabolic Rate and Physical Activity Ratio method provides predictions of thermal sensation that more closely align with actual thermal sensations. The adaptive coefficient of the aPMV model was found to be −0.38 in colder environments and 0.272 in warmer ones. Additionally, using PMV regression, TSV regression, and Griffiths' method, we calculated the local elderly's comfort temperatures to be 18.9 °C (15.43–22.57 °C), 19.3 °C (15.16–22.75 °C), and 21.63 °C (21.34–23.49 °C) respectively. This study introduces a straightforward method for calculating metabolic rates in elderly individuals, offering new insights for research on thermal comfort in the elderly and expanding the database for thermal comfort studies. It lays a foundation for future design and standardization of housing for rural elderly populations.

BIM-Based Simulation on Sustainable Housing Design Using Autodesk Revit

Abstract In the master plan of Trisakti University Nagrak Campus, the criteria for sustainable buildings are mandatory in its planning. One of the facilities in the master plan is the Lecturer Housing. In the modern era, sustainable housing design is needed because of the high energy consumption in modern housing design. This study aims to determine optimal strategies for implementing the Sustainable housing concept in lecturer housing design. Simulation methods are applied using Autodesk Revit to create the lecturer housing design. BIM models are more accurately analyzed and support the idea of more sustainable designs. Based on the simulation, the maximum power obtained from Photovoltaics is 26.181 kWh/year, saving Energy by IDR 62,102,167.05 on a payback period of 15 years. This design can also harvest 20.174,062 Liters of rainwater per year. In addition, applying solar chimneys maximized the penetration of natural daylight and cross ventilation process. Based on the modeling findings, it is evident that the average building daylight factor is 6.5%, above the minimum need of 5%, which will decrease reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours. The fin-shaped shading device mechanism can reduce direct sunlight’s glare and radiation, increasing the reflected light that touches the side of the structure. When dealing with big openings, fin shading devices are utilized to get the optimal opening height-to-shade length ratio of 3:2. The rainwater harvesting management system is well-suited for toilet flushing and plant irrigation, and implementing bio pores may significantly enhance excess rainwater soil penetration., and maximize sustainable housing design.

Algorithm and Tool Development for Creative Generation of Graphic Design of Folk Houses and Ancient Buildings Integrating Cultural and Creative Elements

This study presents an innovative approach called CNN-GA for graphic design for folk houses and ancient buildings, which integrates Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) with Genetic Algorithms (GA) to foster the creation of culturally rich and aesthetically appealing graphic designs in architecture. Our research focuses on capturing the essence of folk houses and ancient buildings, deeply rooted in cultural heritage, and reimagining them through a modern computational lens. The CNN component of our model is trained on a diverse array of architectural imagery, enabling it to effectively recognize and categorize key elements such as motifs, textures, and structural forms inherent to various architectural styles. This neural network acts as an intelligent extractor of cultural and aesthetic features, providing a nuanced understanding of traditional architectural elements. The extracted features are then input into a GA, which embarks on an evolutionary process of design generation. This process iteratively combines and refines the architectural elements, fostering a creative exploration of design possibilities that maintain cultural integrity while introducing innovative interpretations. The synergy of CNN and GA in our CNN-GA framework allows for an automated yet insightful design process, yielding graphic designs that are not only architecturally sound but also resonate with the rich cultural narratives of folk houses and ancient buildings. This research holds significant potential in revolutionizing architectural graphic design, offering a novel tool for architects and designers to merge traditional aesthetics with contemporary design paradigms.

Ephemeral walls for natural, flexible living

Abstract This paper explores the feasibility of developing flexible engineered timber partitions using digital tools for adaptable and flexible housing. For the past decades, a shift in gender roles, an ageing population, new ways of forming families, globalisation and a population in constant motion, a rigid construction sector, and the way we design our cities are necessitating a change toward spaces that are adaptable to our changing needs. In order to address this need in part through flexible engineered timber partitions, extensive testing was undertaken to study the flexibility of timber through kerf patterns. These partitions folded through kerf hinges are modular, easy to fabricate, affordable, and can be placed anywhere within an apartment. Even more, as the partitions are considered a kit of parts designed to be disassembled, they can be reused in the future, promoting a circular economy. All the materials are natural. In the 21st century, with such technological advancements, the climate emergency, and citizens in constant motion, flexibility and customisation should be at the forefront of housing design.

Restorative and regenerative green spaces for vulnerable communities in social housing: The impact of a community greening program

Vulnerable communities represent the most at-risk populations facing inequities and negative health, economic and social wellbeing outcomes. Community gardening has emerged globally as a community-based remedy to reduce these inequities and enhance wellbeing. This paper examines the psychological, socio-cultural and health impact of social housing design that includes access to, and engagement with green spaces. The project was multi-disciplinary and used mixed-method research to examine the impact of community gardening for people in social housing. Two interrelated studies were conducted; study 1 involved 33 social housing gardeners in a pre-post program survey. Statistically significant improvements were found in participants' satisfaction with personal wellbeing, health, and community connectedness; as well as increased gardening skills, positive social experiences, and time spent in nature. Study 2 involved 34 semi-structured interviews conducted with program facilitators and partner organisation staff. Results uncovered that participant's engagement with gardening was restorative and regenerative. Four salient themes emerged from our mixed methods study: 1) connection to self; 2) connection to others, 3) connection to place; and 4) connection to purpose. The findings showcase some of the key principles of a successful social and nature prescription intervention for vulnerable people. Community gardening was shown to amplify civic pride and bolster community resilience. Our research suggests the broad impact of community gardening on participant outcomes for vulnerable populations and enhances the capacity of practitioners to translate research into policy and practice for sustainable, restorative residential communities.

Design and Building of a Breeding House for IoT-based Goat Farming

Abstract — Goat farming is an industry that supplies goat meat for food purposes. This makes goats have a high potential to boost the economy of the community as their meat products are needed by everyone. These conditions motivate farmers to improve the quality of livestock maintenance so that the livestocks produced are of the highest quality. The development of information technology has facilitated a wide range of human activities, including monitoring activities in goat cages. The use of Information Technology helps farmers to improve the quality of livestock maintenance. The large cage area and the distance between cages and communal settlements are the main reasons for the planned IoT-based cage. This research has developed an IoT-based goat cage design that can be used to monitor livestock maintenance in real time via a website or Android. The methods used in this study were cattle identity information, cattle health through body temperature, cage.

Affordable housing and resilient design: Preparing low-income housing for climate change impacts

This paper presents a comprehensive framework for integrating resilient design principles into affordable housing to prepare low-income housing to withstand the impacts of climate change. The framework emphasizes the need for architectural strategies that enhance flood resistance, energy efficiency, and disaster preparedness, specifically tailored to the unique challenges faced by low-income communities. Through a detailed analysis of resilient design principles and practical examples from successful projects, the paper highlights the significance of resilient housing in promoting sustainability and protecting vulnerable populations. The paper also addresses the challenges in implementing resilient design, including financial, regulatory, and technical barriers. It explores opportunities for advancing these practices through innovative solutions, emerging technologies, and supportive policies. Recommendations are provided for policymakers, architects, and developers, focusing on fostering collaboration and community engagement. Additionally, the paper identifies key areas for future research to further refine and expand the application of resilient design in affordable housing. Ultimately, this work contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable housing by proposing actionable strategies to enhance the resilience of affordable housing in the face of climate change. Keywords: Resilient Design, Affordable Housing, Climate Change Adaptation, Flood Resistance, Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Architecture

Cultural synergy: Integrating Lamin Dayak Kenyah in English language learning – A need analysis study

This research aims to identify students' preferences and interests in learning English through Lamin Dayak Kenyah architectural buildings. This research is a mixed research that combines quantitative and qualitative data. The participants were 271 students and 33 English lecturers at universities. The methods used to collect data were classroom observations, surveys, and interviews to identify specific needs faced by students and lecturers when incorporating traditional houses into learning materials. The four fundamental English language skills—listening, reading, writing, speaking—are included in the results. In listening skills, students and lecturers prefer to learn and teach English by watching videos and listening to dialogues or conversations. In reading ability, students and lecturers want to learn with intensive reading, active reading, and critical reading. Regarding writing skills, students and lecturers prefer assignments such as writing descriptive texts and opinion articles. In speaking skills, students and lecturers want to learn through discussion and describing pictures orally. In choosing topics, students and lecturers are interested in the history of local architectural buildings, traditional house design, and the symbolism, color, and meaning of the carvings. Project-based learning (PBL) is the preferred learning method, and learning resources are drawn from videos and interactive learning tools. Future research can utilize these findings to design more targeted instructional materials, leveraging the results of the needs analysis that has been conducted in this study.

Renewed Theories and Discourses of 21st Century; City Planning and Housing Design COVID-19 and Beyond, Sustainable, and Green Design

This research delves into the future housing theories of the 21st century, focusing on recent transformations in both urban planning and housing projects and models. Despite the world's anticipation of a vast sustainable transformation since the late 20th century, the first quarter of the 21st century was confronted with an unexpected event: humanity found itself amidst a pandemic that significantly transformed the world. The post-COVID-19 era has guided significant and enduring changes in various aspects from urban planning to living styles, working patterns, housing models, and typologies. This research presents renewed perspectives, based on theoretical dialogues, and discourses that aim to understand the transformation period with recent events specifically housing. The research also includes the perspective of housing in the past aims to contribute to comprehension of this new era and aid in shaping future urban and housing planning strategies. The theoretical basis is to investigate new methods and techniques in urban, and housing planning that have addressed climate-related issues since the 1980s and the subsequent pandemic period. According to the findings obtained in the research, COVID-19 and sustainability initially considered different phenomena, pandemic is essentially triggered and contributed to sustainable city planning, and housing design. While the public perception often distinguishes between COVID-19 and drivability as distinct design concepts, the research reveals a nuanced reality. Despite apparent differences, it is discerning that similar ideas and design principles aim for a healthier housing concept in airier, and greener areas both in terms of housing planning, and models. This intricates a close conceptual relationship between pandemic-induced design adaptations and sustainable concepts underscores the complexity of contemporary urban and housing planning paradigms.