Understanding the impact of the residential built environment design on inhabitants' wellbeing

Authors

  • Hameda Janahi Cardiff University
  • Shibu Raman Cardiff University
  • Gabriela Zapata-Lancaster Cardiff University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17831/rep:arcc%25y469

Abstract

An increasing body of evidence suggests that some of the contemporary forms of the physical environment have a negative influence on the wellbeing of its inhabitants. This paper presents a literature review on the impact of the built environment on the inhabitants' wellbeing in the residential context. The paper reviews recent literature from various interconnected fields such as psychology, physiology, and sociology in the built environment context. Previous research has shown that the characteristics of the built environment can influence all aspects of human life. The effect of the built environment on the physical and psychological wellbeing is extensively investigated. However, there is limited research on the relationship between the residential built environment and social wellbeing, as measured by social integration and cohesion which suggests the need for more exploration, particularly in the context of the Middle-East. The lack of understanding results in a disconnection between the local communities' socio-cultural needs and actual design and supply of housing. The broader aim of this research is to identify indicators that evaluate wellbeing, dwellings, and neighborhoods. These indicators can be used by researchers, architects, urban planner and policymakers to study and design neighborhoods.

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Published

2018-09-25

How to Cite

Janahi, H., Raman, S., & Zapata-Lancaster, G. (2018). Understanding the impact of the residential built environment design on inhabitants’ wellbeing. ARCC Conference Repository. https://doi.org/10.17831/rep:arcc%y469