Bautista, Pauline Angelika Mae

BS Architecture 4-3

Housing in Response to Social, Cultural, and Psychological Needs

Housing that responds to man's social, cultural, and psychological needs is a concept that goes
beyond mere shelter. Housing plays a vital role in human life in a way that its design and functionality can
substantially affect an individual's welfare and quality of life, therefore, it should be purposefully designed
to cater to the needs of its inhabitants. When housing is designed with consideration for social, cultural, and
psychological aspects, it can create spaces that foster community, promote cultural identity, and support
mental and emotional well-being.
One example of housing that responds to man's social needs, designed to foster a sense of
community, promote inclusivity, and facilitate social interaction among its inhabitants, is co-housing which
is often deemed as intentional communities. Co-housing, a collaborative neighborhood popular in
Scandinavian countries, emphasizes community living, where individuals or families share common
amenities and spaces, such as a kitchen or living room. This type of housing encourages social interaction,
minimizes isolation, and fosters a sense of belonging.
Cultural identity is another important aspect of housing. Designing housing that respects and
incorporates cultural traditions, values, and aesthetics can help residents maintain their cultural identity and
strengthen their sense of belonging. Traditional housing is an apt representation of housing in response to
man’s cultural needs which reflects the cultural values, practices, and traditions of the occupants. Traditional
Balinese houses, for instance, are designed with courtyards and temples, representing the Balinese Hindu
belief in the importance of community and spirituality.
Furthermore, housing can also address psychological needs by providing spaces that support mental
and emotional well-being. Access to natural light, ventilation, and green spaces, as well as well-planned
layout and design that promotes privacy, comfort, and relaxation, can contribute to a healthy and conducive
living environment. For example, therapeutic housing is specifically designed to create a supportive
environment fostering one's recovery and well-being. Communal spaces, and ample natural light and
ventilation are one of its prominent incorporated features intended to enhance the occupants' mood and
reduce their stress, thus inducing positive effects on their mental and emotional health.
Despite the importance of housing that caters to social, cultural, and psychological needs, a
significant number of Filipinos still encounter obstacles in owning a home due to factors like poverty,
limited credit accessibility, and escalating property costs. An example of this struggle can be observed in
urban poor communities in the Philippines, where informal settlements are prevalent. In these communities,
residents often live in cramped and hazardous conditions. The prohibitive cost of land and property makes
it difficult for them to afford formal housing options. In consequence, Filipinos are compelled to reside in
informal settlements that devoid them of necessities like electricity, water, and sanitary facilities.
In conclusion, housing that responds to man's social, cultural, and psychological needs is a crucial
concept in housing design. It emphasizes the importance of creating a living environment that enhances the
well-being of the occupants, and not merely providing a roof over their heads. However, the struggle for
affordable housing remains a challenge for many communities, especially for the victim families of poverty.
Addressing this challenge requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the economic, social, and
political factors that contribute to the problem.