Medium-Density Mixed Housing

Proponents believe medium-density, mixed housing can revitalise fragmented South African cities, offering a more sustainable and impactful alternative to sprawling single-family developments. This conference paper titled Medium-Density Mixed Housing: Sustainable design and construction of South African social housing discusses these complexes. Typically designed at 50-125 units per hectare, and featuring ground-floor entry, private outdoor spaces, and secure parking, they rarely exceed three to four storeys. State supported social housing, as one type of medium-density housing, provides subsidised rental options for middle-income families (R1500-R7500), but carries the risk of stigmatisation. To counter this, advocates emphasise flexible design that allows for change and variety.

The study identifies critical success factors for Medium-Density Mixed Housing and introduces a Spatial Analysis Tool to assess performance aspects related to the following:

• Integration
• Accessibility
• Efficiency
• Image and aesthetics
• Surveillance
• Ownership
• Target hardening

Abstract based directly on source.