The Impact of Housing Design on Social Connection in Singapore
This article explores how the design of public housing in Singapore, particularly HDB (Housing and Development Board) flats, affects residents' feelings of connection and community. It examines different eras of HDB design, the evolution of void decks, and the concept of "third spaces," ultimately asking whether our living environments contribute to feelings of loneliness.
The Evolution of HDB Design
Singapore's public housing has evolved significantly over time.
-
Early HDBs were often linear, rectangular "slab blocks" with long corridors connecting numerous units.
-
As Singaporeans' wealth increased, designs shifted towards more complex "point blocks" in the 1980s. These cauliflower-shaped buildings accommodated larger four- and five-room flats with fewer units per floor, offering greater privacy.
-
The long corridors of older slab blocks were intended to foster a sense of community.
Long Corridors: Fostering Community or Isolation?
One example of an older slab block is 34 Whampoa West, built in 1971, which boasts the longest curved HDB corridor in Singapore. Residents like Raja attest that long corridors facilitate interaction. They create opportunities for casual conversations and a feeling of familiarity among neighbors. Raja views his neighbors as family. However, younger generations often prefer the privacy of point blocks. Some residents noted that older residents may dislike the point blocks because they do not have a lot of neighbors to interact with like they did when living in blocks with long corridors. It is noted that seeing people walking by, smiling, and chatting makes a difference.
The Evolution of Void Decks
Void decks, initially conceived as shelters for children during rainy weather in the 1970s, have transformed into valuable community spaces. These areas serve as important points of contact, particularly for seniors, offering a place for social interaction. However, modern void decks are evolving. They are often smaller, divided by walls, or replaced entirely with features like sky gardens, as seen at the Pinnacle@Duxton.
Sky Gardens and the "Third Space" Concept
Architect Peng Beng explains that sky gardens, like those at the Pinnacle@Duxton, were introduced to address the heat absorbed by rooftops.
-
Trees provide cooling and create a more calming environment.
-
Ground-level spaces feature vibrant elements like urban farms and basketball courts.
The creation of "third spaces," designed and managed by residents, is considered crucial for fostering community spirit. An example is the Ibasho Cafe in Queenstown, run by seniors. These spaces offer low-pressure environments for spontaneous conversations and connections.
The Impact of Pace of Life and "Kampung Spirit"
Despite well-designed spaces, a fast-paced lifestyle can hinder social interaction. Many residents noted that they are simply too busy to stop and chat. The concept of "kampung spirit" (a sense of community and mutual support) is also discussed. While some feel it is fading, others see it evolving. Children, for instance, readily create their own communities through spontaneous play, something adults could learn from.
Architecture's Role and the Importance of Human Interaction
Architecture can influence behavior and feelings, creating environments that promote happiness. However, as one expert noted, "Architecture has the power to destroy community but it cannot build community." Building community ultimately relies on human interaction. Small gestures, like smiling and chatting, can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness in urban environments. The key takeaway is that community is built by people, not solely by design. To foster a sense of belonging, it's important to slow down, acknowledge those around us, and engage in simple acts of connection.