Medium-Density Mixed Housing
Sustainable design and construction of South African social housing
01 September 2010
Research Space
English
Conference paper
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research
South Africa
Proponents believe medium-density, mixed housing can revitalise fragmented South African cities, offering a more sustainable and impactful alternative to sprawling single-family developments. This conference paper titled Medium-Density Mixed Housing: Sustainable design and construction of South African social housing discusses these complexes. Typically designed at 50-125 units per hectare, and featuring ground-floor entry, private outdoor spaces, and secure parking, they rarely exceed three to four storeys. State supported social housing, as one type of medium-density housing, provides subsidised rental options for middle-income families (R1500-R7500), but carries the risk of stigmatisation. To counter this, advocates emphasise flexible design that allows for change and variety.
The study identifies critical success factors for Medium-Density Mixed Housing and introduces a Spatial Analysis Tool to assess performance aspects related to the following:
- Integration
- Accessibility
- Efficiency
- Image and aesthetics
- Surveillance
- Ownership
- Target hardening
Abstract based directly on source.
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