Exploring the role of social architectural design in the implementation of public housing developments in the inner city of Johannesburg

Abstract

Access to well-designed and liveable housing in South Africa by marginalised groups presents an array of complexities due to the disparity between the demand and supply. The interplay between designed spaces and the impact it has on the consumption of space with regards to meeting the everyday needs of people should be a key area of focus in the design process of contemporary architecture. This study assessed the role Social Architecture plays in facilitating the physical and social accommodation of residents, especially marginalised groups. This exploratory study was informed by findings from semi-structured interviews with practitioners in the field of built environment and public sector officials responsible for regulating and implementing public housing policy. The findings and analysis demonstrate that Social Architecture applied in public residential design practice can improve the quality of housing and living conditions of end-users. The application of the principles of Social Architecture within the context of public residential projects requires specific guidelines that enhance the processes and practices employed by practitioners. This study thus presents a proposed reconfiguration of the conventional architectural work stages to include aspects socially inclusive design in the design processes for residential developments