Environmental behavior analysis of social housing units in Surabaya, Indonesia

Due to the space requirement in the small units of social housing, the occupants extend the size to have a comfortable living. Although the size has been extended, it remains inhumane, gives a slum impression, and occupies public spaces around the building. The study was conducted in the oldest social housing in Surabaya. Data were collected through observation, demonstration, photographs, and informal interviews. One unit was selected to describe the fulfilment of the service area. The space usage analysis was done to figure out the area requirement and room function for a day. Furthermore, the way of occupants utilizing their space requirements in the public area was evaluated. This study found that the lack of space encourages occupants to extend the size against the local government regulations. The space requirement established three main areas and room functions. The space analysis confirmed the public area is a multi-function area. It reveals the imbalance of space usage and the lack of privacy. Furthermore, the furniture configuration found highly needed rooms. Thus, the study suggests that a possible solution for this case is a flexible unit in a flexible social housing to meet the various activities (households) and future needs of occupants.