Space use, dwelling layout and housing quality: An example of low-cost housing in Istanbul

This chapter discusses the problem of housing quality by examining the intangible aspects of space use in low-cost housing in Istanbul. Planned housing is built on both an individual and a cooperative basis. Dwellings constructed through cooperatives are the most important part of the total housing production. Layout is one of the most important characteristics that determine the quality for housing units. Space use and furniture arrangements, in conjunction with the dwelling layout, are considered as two interrelated indicators of housing quality. The chapter examines an example of low-income housing in Istanbul in terms of the satisfaction of users with the plan layout of their individual dwellings. It aims to indicate the meaningful touches of the individual users in their homes that increase their satisfaction and shows the tendencies and preferences which shed some light for design activities of mass housing.