Towards more User-Friendly Public Open Space in Low-rise High Density Housing Areas

Abstract

Can we provide enough both affordable and attractive housing at locations where people want to live? Nowadays, low-rise high density housing represents more and more possible answer to this question, as well as the answer to the problems of (un)controlled expansion of cities and using high-quality agricultural soil, the problems of the urban sprawls and decay of city inner areas. Although there are many understandable differences between countries, caused by specific institutional, systemic and planning framework, several common principles can be identified: location and sense of a place, successful allocation policy and occupancy, successful management approach, and good and quality urban and architectural design. Attractive and popular low-rise high density housing can be achieved when a number of interrelated factors are applied - a network of user-friendly, effective and geneorous open spaces (multy-use squares, parks, green spaces, pedestrian walks, courtyards, gardens etc.) is one of key element of urban and architectural design approaches wich is preparing in order to support environmentally friendly housing and improwing qualuty of resident lifestyles. Through the balance both private and public space for the residents, the high density living can promotes a greater sense of community, social interaction and cultural enrichment. This paper provides recommendations related to the significance and key principles of urban and architectural design of user-friendly open spaces in high density residential areas through theoretical approaches, institutional frameworks and good practice design.