Flexible windows as a mean of achieving user satisfaction in mass housing

Abstract

The current trend in mass housing provision in Malaysia is providing housing unit designs which are not easily adaptable with the changes in lifestyle of end users. As a result, various architectural elements of housing unit including windows subject to modification. This phenomenon is evident when 42% of the respondents of this research experienced windows replacement in the housing. This study investigates flexible window design with particular focus on users’ reasons for having flexible windows, their tendency to be involved in the process of windows replacement and the expected characteristics of flexible window. To achieve these, quantitative surveys were carried out among Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s staff. The results indicate that 74.4% of the users show enthusiasm for adopting flexible windows in their houses. Sixty nine percent (69%) of the respondents believe that applying flexible windows would increase their level of satisfaction with their houses. Respondents’ reasons for having flexible windows are mainly to fulfill their housing needs within the physical and psychological levels. The results also demonstrate that existing problems with the window designs are derived from the installation method, window structure and material. Systematic design of flexible window can be achieved by simplifying its structure and layout, having versatile frame and simplified installation and self-locating techniques. In addition, the results suggest that permanent integration, heavy weight and sharp window components should be eliminated. Materials for flexible windows need to be non-toxic, reusable as well as recyclable which offers users variety of design, ease of maintenance and preservation. In conclusion, flexible windows could revolutionize the fenestration industry, and this can be an approach to meet individual housing needs to enhance housing satisfaction.