Compact urban form for sociability in urban neighbourhood

Abstract

Cities with compact urban form are often associated with being sustainable. Among them are impacts on quality of life, improved access, neighbourhood satisfaction, as well as improved individual and community’s wellbeing. This study is part of a bigger scope of study that looks into the relationship between urban form and social sustainability. This paper specifically explores the notion of compact urban form and how it impacts the aspect of sociability in urban neighbourhood. Objectives of the study are (i) to identify the extent of compact urban form on influencing community behaviour and (ii) to establish the type of social interactions as a result of residing in a compact urban form residential neighbourhood. Data was collected through the use of household questionnaire survey which was conducted in selected residential neighbourhood within Kuala Lumpur Metropolitan Region and supported by observation survey. Findings of the study reveals that residents of compact urban form tend to have higher chance to have social interaction with their neighbours either, of certain intention or unintentionally. It is through these social interactions that would lead to better social cohesion that would create safer neighbourhood environment.