Reclaiming Community: A Study on Quality of Life Improvement in Middle-Income Housing

The rapid pace of urbanization and population growth in developing nations, particularly Iran, has escalated the provision of quality housing for middle-income groups-which constitute the majority of the population-into a critical socio-economic concern. In recent decades, residential designs have predominantly followed a 'minimization approach,' leading to the exclusion of vital qualitative and cultural features. This deficiency has resulted in spatial inefficiency and adverse social consequences, including a decline in vitality, an increase in antisocial behavior (such as crime and distrust), and an overall deterioration in the quality of life and social relations. Significantly, this suboptimal housing quality is directly correlated with reduced social interaction among residents who are already under economic pressure. This applied, descriptive-analytical study aims to develop a desirable design model for middle-income residential complexes, addressing the research gap at the intersection of economic, social, and spatial quality dimensions. Data collection relies on a combined approach of literature review and survey methods to examine relevant theories and design standards. The specific objectives of this research are twofold: (۱) to identify strategies for enhancing social interaction (e.g., visual landscape appeal, legibility, and the design of active common spaces), and (۲) to analyze the influential factors in middle-income housing design. The core hypothesis posits that designing such complexes necessitates the integration of spatial qualities (such as semi-open spaces) to strengthen social bonds. Preliminary findings indicate that the 'desirable design' of shared spaces and environments that instill a 'sense of safety and comfort' are the most critical factors, from the users' perspective, in promoting social relationships. Ultimately, this research seeks to revive and sustain the true meaning of housing as a place for tranquility and social cohesion by optimizing costs while preserving high spatial quality.

کلیدواژه ها:

Middle-Income Housing ، Social Interaction ، Spatial Quality ، Residential Complex ، Community