Examination and Analysis of Flexibility and Movement in Housing Design to Overcome Crowding

Abstract

Following modernization and the Industrial Revolution, where structural columns replaced load-bearing walls, open plans emerged as a consequence of this structural paradigm. These fundamental changes provided an opportunity for social and psychological considerations to evolve the spatial structure towards enhancing the comfort and well-being of occupants by utilizing spatial flexibility. The growth of urban populations and the lack of preparedness for urban living have led to both micro (single residential unit) and macro (urban society) overcrowding. This phenomenon, rooted in psychological and physiological aspects of human life, results in decreased quality of life, monotony, and disarray. This research aims to provide practical solutions to improve the quality of life by utilizing library resources and previously conducted studies on this subject.In the contemporary era, characterized by the transition from the Industrial Revolution to the Information Revolution, dynamism and movement are among the most critical attributes. Consequently, contemporary architecture, housing, and urban planning must, willingly or unwillingly, align with these attributes. Given that architectural products must continually metamorphose and adapt throughout their lifespan, they must inherently incorporate the essential principle of flexibility (physical, contextual, and structural). It is evident that architectural spaces must be designed to enhance the creative potential of occupants within a given living unit over time, allowing for mobility and modifications within the space under their control. Therefore, by employing strategies such as modular design, movable walls, multipurpose spaces, and smart technologies, the topic at hand can be continually updated. Undoubtedly, adopting a design approach based on spatial flexibility will significantly impact economic efficiency, improve quality of life, ensure environmental sustainability, and foster social adaptability.

Keywords: Flexibility, Overcome crowding, Environment and Social Behavior, Dynamism