Boundless: an analysis to practical solutions for new type of affordable housing in urban city in Orange Grove

Abstract

The research aims to solve the issue of low-density and urban sprawl in Johannesburg focusing on Orange Grove as catalysis for higher density. The majority of workingclass citizens still live outside of the city, commute daily at a significant cost, and travel far distances to access work and economic opportunities. Research shows that 60% of Gauteng commuters spend more than 10% of their income on transportation alone (GSIR, 2019). As a result of high commute costs, many people are less productive, remain financially insecure, and have less time to spend with their families. The proposal is to create sustainable communities with a unique goal, ensuring secure and low-cost housing for the mid-to-low income class. There are many South Africans who need proper housing that offers a sense of belonging, security and privacy, but live in difficult and uncomfortable conditions in informal settlements. Urban areas are also experiencing strain due to economic factors and rapid urbanisation, on top of the backlog of housing demand. The idea of high-rise apartments will provide housing for working-class people close to public transportation and area development. This proposal also investigates how a high-rise solution may be used to address the economic, socio-political, housing, and sustainability issues that come along with the densification of an urban area.