Dairy of Community Patterns by Jonathan Chua

Diary of Community Patterns A s t udy o f s o c i a l p ra c ti c e s i n Choa Chu K a ng

Jonathan Chua A c a d Ye a r 2 0 2 1 - 2 0 2 2

Patterns of Social Practices The HDB estates present the fascinating realm when public but restricted spaces meet a free roaming community. To observe the tectonics or structure is not enough – It is to observe its use by the very people it was designed to sustain. Only then can we have an intimate understanding of the way people occupy, assimilate, and even terraform the public space. Better if it was unintentionally made that way by the original designers, that we can see the friction between what was the original design intention versus how residents deem to better use. These documentations represent a snap shot of the community “patterns”, ways they use or develop the space, or even ignore it entirely, and why it appears so. Taking lessons from Atelier Bow-Wow’s Pet Architecture & Windowscape, Christopher Alexander’s A Pattern Language, and Eric Klinenberg’s Palaces for the People, we use 4 lens to observe social practices. The first is a photograph, aimed to record a snap shot of the space in its whole, a moment in time. It is followed by a short write up of the space and observation. Next is the intangible, the observation of how people use, or ignore, the place. An anatomical axo drawing of the relationship between the human, space, and objects is drawn to show how it comes together. This gives an impression of the strengths or weakness of the space, what elements allowed it to succeed or fail as a social space. Finally, a diagram of the space is drawn, a simple universal way to highlight key elements that identifies the spaces. This handbook thus serves as a research diary of the community, a slice of life, giving us key information into the behavioural patterns we can tap on, or extend, when designing new social spaces wholly unique to them.

COMMUNITY CENTER OPEN AREA SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS SOCIAL COMMERCE SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS Community Centers serve as the central hub for various activities, programs, and facilities run by agencies under one roof. By housing them together, it acts as a node for the community to gather or have support, such as clinics, tuition, festive events and more. A key social infrastructure is its open plaza, facing the main streetscape, acting as the draw into the deeper portion of the building. Its ambiguous use brings opportunities for various programs to be held, such as arts exhibit or soccer screening, with its vibrancy spilling to the street. All other supporting programs are hidden in the upper floors, designated for more specialized facilities such as a polyclinic. By keeping open commons below, the building extends its use beyond the fixed programs and becomes part of the streetscape. It links itself by connecting to an existing overhead bridge as well, a connection across the road. The second floor links to the bridge for easier crossing.

Flexible open space linking to the main street to invite public into the space

Fixed programs above for visitors

Overhead bridge linking the opposite side while also linking it directly to the CC

Multi-program use within open space

Main entrance facing road

Keat Hong CC open area. Large space provides multi-use programs such as soccer screening or exhibitions

Various fixed programs

Keat Hong CC boundary

Open area

Main street

COMMUNITY CENTER FOOD SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL COMMERCE

Community Centers serve as the central hub for various activities, programs, and facilities run by agencies under one roof. By housing them together, it acts as a node for the community to gather or have support, such as clinics, tuition, festive events and more. Food is a big social infrastructure draw to any building, and supports the community centers vibrancy by drawing visitors to the area. Yet by introducing food choices which are relatively expensive for low-income groups, it excludes a certain demographic from the area. Unlike Hawkers or Coffeeshops, they do not allow free seating, further creating the atmosphere of exclusion by cost. Thus it brings tension between the possibility of social commerce that a community center can offer, with the current situation of being priced out.

Stall fronts facing street scape to get the most attention

Keat Hong CC food choices. Despite being for the community, many vendors are pricing above the affordable level, driving out seniors or marginalized groups

HDB COFFEESHOP & CARPARK SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL COMMERCE

Coffeeshops and Hawkers are an essential part of lifestyle in any neighborhoods. It serves to sustain the community through its food, but doubles as one of the key areas where residents can gather and chat. The commerce brings a social dimension, and thus can be considered as social commerce. Its key amenities are the free seating arrangement, where seats are not associated with any stalls, and thus becomes a form of commons. Seats are usually spaced out, with each table accommodating 4 to 6 seats, creating optimal size for small groups. Residents can gather over drinks at any time of the day. The direct association with stall owners also lend a human relation to the fiscal transaction, where residents recognise stall owners and form friendships with them. Most stalls are located near HDB blocks or main roads, using its store frontage to draw visitors. Carparks near such stall allow commuters to get a quick meal or drink before heading off. Each Coffeeshop usually houses 6 to 15 individual stalls and occupt either a single HDB block or Carpark, while Hawker Centers house more than 30 stalls and are housed under a dedicated building

Coffeeshops always has open seating for public to eat, but also as a gathering space

Coffeeshop close to a carpark allows commuters to grab a quick drink before heading off

Scene from a nearby Kopitiam. Such sights are rare in CCK, having only 3 such eateries within a 2km by 2km zone.

Internal individual stalls Corridor footway

Open seating concept on a semi-defined space

Service road and carpark

HAWKER CENTER/ COFFEESHOP STALLS SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL COMMERCE

Coffeeshops and Hawkers are an essential part of lifestyle in any neighborhoods. It serves to sustain the community through its food, but doubles as one of the key areas where residents can gather and chat. The commerce brings a social dimension, and thus can be considered as social commerce. Its key amenities are the free seating arrangement, where seats are not associated with any stalls, and thus becomes a form of commons. Seats are usually spaced out, with each table accommodating 4 to 6 seats, creating optimal size for small groups. Residents can gather over drinks at any time of the day. The direct association with stall owners also lend a human relation to the fiscal transaction, where residents recognise stall owners and form friendships with them. Each Coffeeshop usually houses 6 to 15 individual stalls and occupt either a single HDB block or Carpark, while Hawker Centers house more than 30 stalls and are housed under a dedicated building. Most stalls occupy no more than 12sqms, with a minimum width of 3.5m for a shop front.

Every store brings unique frontage and identifiable items

Open seating usually takes all open space infront of stalls

Hawker Centres/ Coffeeshops interior stalls

Stall fronts

Open seating public area

LOCAL RETAIL SHOPS SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL COMMERCE

Neighborhood Centers serve as a node for small and local business to set up, usually on dedicated shop fronts below HDB blocks or small buildings. They offer a variety of goods and services, as varied as the number of stalls, creating a vibrant and unique streetscape wherever they reside. Such areas usually face higher foot traffic due to the commerce, drawing groups from all over the neighborhood. With this, they are able to synergise with other local businesses, such as coffeeshops who benefit from the larger traffic. This complimentary program serve to create an identity and hub for residents in the area. Its key factors to its unqiue facade and identity is its ability to assimilate surrounding open spaces to extend its shop front, using display racks with wheels to bring out their produce, and using canvas roof to increase its shelter, relying on existing tall elements such as lamp posts or trees. Each stall brings unique produce, and thus a hetrogenous commons and commerce is created with the stalls. Materials used to extend can range from any ropes to tie to lamp posts, or metal poles to prop up a canvas shelter. They are rudimentary constructs but function well for its intended purpose.

Tall elements used to tie canvas Rolling out additional selling space

Additional open space doubles as shop front extension during the day

Stalls are located near eateries to synergize with commerce activities

Reusing trays and cartoon box

Local shops along footpaths

Stall fronts

5 foot walkway

Expanded stall areas during operation

Limits of open area

OPEN AIR CARPARK SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

Carparks and service roads take up the largest space in each estate, more so if the carparks are designed as a street level. This inefficient use of space further splits each block further, creating a hostile and unusable space for residents to traverse. The lack of possibilities for time sharing space also means a highly inefficient use, highlighted more so when the carparks are empty when residents commute to work, leaving vast open spaces, but no opportunities for usage. The carparks becomes a infrastructure dessert between HDB blocks. Existing solutions do overcome this issue, most commonly the multi-storey carparks in newer estates. Yet the issue of carpark space allocation by units is not resolved, as well as the under utilized space when commuters leave for work. This however, presents a special resource to tap on for developing better social infrastructure usage if the carpark spaces are resolved.

Roads isolates and separates blocks from each other, with no possible programs or amenities to add

Vast space used for open carpark area

A ground level HDB car park. Large spaces devoted to carpark results in inefficient use of space and reduction of street scape for pedestrian

HDB block

Open carpark consumes a large area and prevents crossing due to the hostile nature of cars

HDB block HDB block

Alternative crossing paths

HDB PLAYGROUND SOCIAL COMMONS

Various commons cater to different demographics. Some may cater to all groups, while others are specific in nature. Playgrounds and Senior fitness corner are two examples of commons which cater to a specific age group, demanding unique equipments and spaces to accommodate them. Playgrounds are one of the most integral social commons in estates, serving as the main activity node or families and kids alike. Playgrounds facilitate a form of social play through its intentional design, which is difficult for pure participatory design by residents. It generates activity and buzz within its vicinity, and can complement other social infrastructure as well, such as kindergartens and residents corner. Complementary elements to support playgrounds include fitness corner which can cater to seniors and benches for parents to supervise and rest. These supporting elements are crucial in creating a holistic commons that cater to all age groups and communities, rather than a specific or singular need. The size of playgrounds and supporting commons are important to consider in its design - too small and it might not generate enough activity or interest. It should also be planned within the surrounding estate with wide open spaces for play, recognizing it as a community node rather than left over space. Placing such social commons near and between HDB blocks also give life and visual activities for residents within the area. Such follies between blocks are vital in sustaining activities and place-based lifestyles of the estate.

Benches facing playground allow parents to watch and supervise, also acting as a soft boundary to the play area

Playgrounds allow children to play under supervision and safety Playgrounds do not intersect footpaths in order to separate passerby's from those actively using the playground

Place offers families to interact with one another

A typical medium sized playground at HDB estates.

HDB block has direct sight to vibrancy of play area

HDB block

Benches create a soft boundary, reinforced by parents or families watching kids

HDB block

Playground

Senior fitness area Commons catering to various demographics

EXERCISE CORNER FOLLIES SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

The streets are a common social infrastructure that residents use for commute, but also for sports such as jogging or cycling. The design of streets with Park connector help to widen the path for both commuters and joggers without clashing. In line with the activities along the street scape, small exercise corner folies line up the park connector, serving as a pitstop or rest point for joggers. The few elements help with warm up/cool down exercises. Yet it also serves as a chanced opportunity for interacting between joggers during rest period, where it is not normally common to interact during the run.

Small fitness activities throughout the footpath act as pitstops or small rest areas for joggers

Small exercise corner along streets. Such follies allow opportunities for rest and interaction

Exercise corner folly

HDB cluster

Exercise corner every 400meters along park connector as a pitstop

HDB cluster

PARK CONNECTOR NETWORK SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

PCN widening

Streets with widening for Park connector network. The widening of street allows greater capacity and separation of sports group and commuters.

Main Park HDB precinct HDB precinct Main Park

HDB precinct

GREEN BUFFER WITH PLANTERS SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

The green buffer between roads and building present a vast opportunity for appropriating space. The wide 15 meters separation between the street and HDB block serves as a wide buffer for managing the space, whereby passerbys are able to view, but not within proximity to use unless intentionally entering the space. The ambiguity of ownership is partially resolved by this separation, as well as the direct line of sight of the first story units, who most commonly appropriate the green buffer. Similarly to the upper floors, gardening is the largest hobby carried out, but due to the vast space given, are more diverse and elaborate than their neighbors above. Large plots, usually demarcated by small bamboo fences or various items, line the extent of each plot, usually following their own unit width. Large plants are a common theme, enabled by the deep soil and space. While theft is uncommon, it is a source of concern among residents, especially in such self-made gardens compared to designated community gardens by agencies. However, this has not deterred many to plant, seeing as the commons are "under surveillance" by the units beside them. The green buffer serves as a front porch for residents. Additional elements such as covered drainage aid in water run off from the garden, further enabling such gardens without concern.

Direct line of sight allows management and security

Most plots are segregated along the same width as house units, a form of mediating space use among neighbors

Makeshift bamboo fences to mark garden

HDB Green buffer zone with makeshift garden plots. Large green buffer allows extension of a "front yard" for first floor residents.

HDB units having direct view to garden, serving as a form of surveillance HDB covered footway

Wide green buffer to main street

Front garden porch

Main street

GREEN BUFFER WITH FOLLIES SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

The green buffer between roads and building present a vast opportunity for appropriating space. The wide 15 meters separation between the street and HDB block serves as a wide buffer for managing the space, whereby passerbys are able to view, but not within proximity to use unless intentionally entering the space. The ambiguity of ownership is partially resolved by this separation, as well as the direct line of sight of the first story units, who most commonly appropriate the green buffer. Similarly to the upper floors, gardening is the largest hobby carried out, but due to the vast space given, are more diverse and elaborate than their neighbors above. Large plots, usually demarcated by small bamboo fences or various items, line the extent of each plot, usually following their own unit width. Large plants are a common theme, enabled by the deep soil and space. While theft is uncommon, it is a source of concern among residents, especially in such self-made gardens compared to designated community gardens by agencies. However, this has not deterred many to plant, seeing as the commons are "under surveillance" by the units beside them. The green buffer serves as a front porch for residents. Some residents take the front porch concept further by creating small follies, such as seating, that give each plot their own distinct character. The monotony of the facade is broken by such resident interventions, creating visual identity along the streetscape.

Direct line of sight provides surveillance needed for mediating site use Swing seats are an example of amenities added, and regulated by neighbors

Plants and bench extend the "house" for residents

HDB Green buffer zone with plants, benches and swing. Large buffer allows installation for equipment and furnishings.

HDB units having direct view to garden, serving as a form of surveillance HDB covered footway

Wide green buffer to main street

Front garden porch

Main street

COMMUNITY GARDEN PLOTS SOCIAL COMMONS

Community gardens are dedicated plots allocated by the local RC to any residents who wish to do their gardening. By creating designated plot which are surrounded by a fence, it offers safety to those who plant, while also creating mediation between residents. Each plot is 1.5m by 3m, which is sufficient for a small variety of small plants. To function, each resident must ballot to NEA and their local RC for the plot, who will issue the permit for up to 3 years. This form of mediation functions well to prevent arguments among residents, but creates a highly restrictive usage of community garden. Other features are a dedicated tool shed for the residents to store their equipments, a separated drainage system for the plants, and a lock and key which are given to those allocated a plot. The community garden thus becomes a community only for those who participate in it, with those not allocated separated from this community. Questions on how to mediate residents who plant, while also ensuring security and participation are raised to develop more inclusive forms of community garden. It should also be noted that the garden plots are located beside a fitness corner and badminton court, synergistic spaces that compliment due to the elderly demographics of most community garden users.

Fitness corner nearby which synergises with senior demographic

Shared tool shed for gardeners

Chain link fence for security, but also excludes non-participants

Dedicated side drainage constructed

Streetscape

Safety entry way

Complimentary space

Dedicated plot allocation

Strong separating boundary

Complimentary space

SHELTERED LINK WAY CROSSING SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

Internal service roads and carparks separate HDB blocks, cutting between them throughout the estate. This cuts of the sheltered footpath below each block, exposing residents to rain or sun as they pass between. One solution is the connection of sheltered linkways between each HDB block, connecting each block and offering some form of protection. Yet its use takes it a step further, doubling as a pick up/ drop off point for residents when it is raining. Each linkway along the road is intentionally raised to 4.5m height to allow large vehicles to pass through, and widened to 4m, allowing a full car to park under for pickup. Raised kerbs help denote the crossing and paths.

Shelter provides link during rain

Shelter doubles up as pickup/ dropoff point for residents or kindergarten kids

Sheltered walkway link between blocks

HDB block

Sheltered linkway connecting HDB blocks

Service road splitting blocks

MULTI-PURPOSE PAVILION SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

Large pavilions serve as the main multi-functional space for large scale events, such as weddings, funerals, or festive celebrations. The large roof span creates a free open space to facilitate the various programs. However, its services are limited, having only lights and side fans to support, resulting in additional equipments such as speakers to be imported by organizers. Most pavilions are also situated beside open areas and other social commons such as parks or fitness area, serving as a staging area or an extension of programs. The large span invites ad hoc activities by residents when not in use. Football and skating are some activities commonly seen, more so when it is raining. Yet elements are created to inhibit such usage, seen in the metal swing gate in the middle, which can be deployed to restrict usage. This develops a restrictive atmosphere in what activities can be held and others not, as well as taking the mediation out of residents hands.

Sheltered pavilion doubles as sheltered linkway connection between blocks

Large covered space to hold functions or act as play area

Swing gate to restrict sports usage

Sheltered pavilions located beside open areas and amenities

Large pavilion multi-purpose area. Despite its free use, there are multiple restrictions, such as a ban on any sports.

HDB block

Expanded linkway becomes a pavilion to host events

HDB block

RC CENTER RUN TV VIEWING AREA SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS HDB Void decks serve a multi-functional, yet undefined role. The open spaces present many opportunities of usage or programmatic insertion. Some are adapted to institutions or commerce like kindergartens or mamak stalls. Other void decks retain its openness, instead inserting small elements for usage. Some void decks are converted to serve as staging areas for community programs, and thus a form of storage system with small amenities are added to spruce up the area. Many programs are dependent on the RC's to lead, and with responsibility given to them, so too is the need for security. Thus, storage under lock and key are common sights in these areas. where props and objects can be taken out during special events, but are otherwise locked and prevented use by residents for fear of abuse or damage. This concern is valid, but begets questions as to how participatory community events actually are. Much programs are indeed facilitating rather than consistent active involvement with certain autonomy. The few fixed elements such as seating and fans are the only elements provided for daily use, but are also difficult to damage without clear intent. The question of mediating use and program between community leaders and community is raised in such settings, and further questions as to how greater involvement with managing social commons with appropriate mediation can be achieved.

RC Center beside. Most activity areas are near RC centers for ease of supervision

TV screening under shutter for protection Benches skewed awkwardly away from TV

HDB RC corner with Tv screening. Similarly the TV screening is managed by the RC, and the seating is arranged poorly and does not allow congregating or facilitating activities.

Fixed benches placed perpendicular to the TV

Sheltered footway

Senior corner marked with floor material change

TV screen under shutter

RC office by the side

HDB VOID DECK WITH ILLUSTRATIONS SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

Walls as canvas, with community art works created

Columns as canvas

HDB Void deck

Identity of void deck created with paintings on columns and floor pattern

Columns used as canvas Lift core wall used as canvas

SENIOR CITIZEN CORNER BY THE SIDE SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS HDB Void decks serve a multi-functional, yet undefined role. The open spaces present many opportunities of usage or programmatic insertion. Some are adapted to institutions or commerce like kindergartens or mamak stalls. Other void decks retain its openness, instead inserting small elements for usage. Some void decks are converted to serve as staging areas for community programs, and thus a form of storage system with small amenities are added to spruce up the area. Many programs are dependent on the RC's to lead, and with responsibility given to them, so too is the need for security. Thus, storage under lock and key are common sights in these areas. where props and objects can be taken out during special events, but are otherwise locked and prevented use by residents for fear of abuse or damage. This concern is valid, but begets questions as to how participatory community events actually are. Much programs are indeed facilitating rather than consistent active involvement with certain autonomy. The few fixed elements such as seating and fans are the only elements provided for daily use, but are also difficult to damage without clear intent. The question of mediating use and program between community leaders and community is raised in such settings, and further questions as to how greater involvement with managing social commons with appropriate mediation can be achieved.

TV shutter for TV as a passive form of entertainment

Metal bench for group seating

Seating for TV viewing, but little opportunities for other usage

HDB Elderly corner with TV screening and seats. The space lacks opportunity for sharing or collaboration among the elderly.

TV screen under shutter

Benches

Seats for TV Senior corner marked with floor material change

RC CENTER RUN VOID DECK SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS HDB Void decks serve a multi-functional, yet undefined role. The open spaces present many opportunities of usage or programmatic insertion. Some are adapted to institutions or commerce like kindergartens or mamak stalls. Other void decks retain its openness, instead inserting small elements for usage. Some void decks are converted to serve as staging areas for community programs, and thus a form of storage system with small amenities are added to spruce up the area. Many programs are dependent on the RC's to lead, and with responsibility given to them, so too is the need for security. Thus, storage under lock and key are common sights in these areas. where props and objects can be taken out during special events, but are otherwise locked and prevented use by residents for fear of abuse or damage. This concern is valid, but begets questions as to how participatory community events actually are. Much programs are indeed facilitating rather than consistent active involvement with certain autonomy. The few fixed elements such as seating and fans are the only elements provided for daily use, but are also difficult to damage without clear intent. The question of mediating use and program between community leaders and community is raised in such settings, and further questions as to how greater involvement with managing social commons with appropriate mediation can be achieved.

Storage unit under shutter, reinforcing restricted use that only RC members can access and not the public

All equipment stored by RC

Change in floor material to denote extent of multi-use space

Bench along edge for seating

HDB Void deck with RC storage. The RC is the only group that can open and use equipment, otherwise the space becomes underutilized

Store room managed by Agency under shutter

Fixed benches defining external to internal space

Void deck dedicated for events, marked with floor material change

TV screen under shutter

REUSED VOID DECK KINDERGARTEN SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS

HDB Void decks serve a multi-functional, yet undefined role. The open spaces present many opportunities of usage or programmatic insertion. Some are adapted to institutions or commerce like kindergartens or mamak stalls. Other void decks retain its openness, instead inserting small elements for usage. Kindergartens are the most common social institution set up at such void decks, due to the appropriate space allocated to set up, while being one of the most in demand infrastructure. Most families wish for their children to enter one within their estate for convenience to pick up and to facilitate mingling with nearby families. The kindergarten then serves as a programmatic node for kids as well as their adults, who have the chance of interacting while waiting for their kids. Yet the spatial constraints presents difficulties and challenges for the institution to manage. Most void decks are close to the road side, and safety is a huge concern. Thus recessed porch are usually created to restrict kids before sending them off. The narrow passages of the footway means large gatherings and obstructions by various families at the start and end of the day. Parents usually have no waiting areas. Finally, drop off points are few and far between, due to the lack of dedicated areas in HDB blocks within proximity of most kindergarten areas.

Narrow walkway makes it difficult for parents to wait without blocking path

SPA

RKL

ETO

Chanced opportunities to interact between families while waiting for their kids

Entrance dangerously close to roadside, resulting in constant supervision

Kindergarten below the HDB block

Kindergarten, private space Kindergarten front porch entrance for holding/ picking up kids

HDB covered footway Lift

Service road directly beside footway and kindergarten, a danger zone

Kindergarten carving a front porch before the rooms

RC NETWORK OFFICE SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS

HDB Void decks serve a multi-functional, yet undefined role. The open spaces present many opportunities of usage or programmatic insertion. Some are adapted to institutions or commerce like kindergartens or mamak stalls. Other void decks retain its openness, instead inserting small elements for usage. Resident's Corner offices are situated in each HDB precinct, acting as the central admin office for their given zone. They serve to house the staff members who maintain the areas, but also as a walk in office for residents to discuss issues with their community leaders. Due to its importance, many key amenities, such as multi-purpose rooms, parks, or activity centers, are located in proximity to the office, serving as a small acupuncture social infrastructure around the estate. Each office usually takes up 200sqm, consisting of various offices and admin rooms. They have very basic layout, utilizing the given void deck space allocated. Its key function are administrative in nature, rather than a multi-purpose residents usage, creating a separation of ideas between the community leaders and community.

Room for dialogues between residents and leaders

Main entrance signifying RC center

5 footway maintained for sheltered paths

Amenities close to RC. Similarly some playgrounds are placed near kindergartens

Resident's Corner office below a HDB block

Resident's Corner office

HDB covered footway

Residents Corner multi-purpose rooms

Programs within proximity and mutually benefiting

Kindergartens Central playground and social commons

HDB VOID DECK WITH AMENITIES SOCIAL COMMONS

HDB Void decks serve a multi-functional, yet undefined role. The open spaces present many opportunities of usage or programmatic insertion. Some are adapted to institutions or commerce like kindergartens or mamak stalls. Other void decks retain its openness, instead inserting small elements for usage. Benches are the most common elements added, offering seating or respite. Yet the design of the benches are designed to minimize long term interaction. The lack of tables means groups cannot eat without being inconvenient. The metal materials make for long term use uncomfortable, with legs inbetween to prevent people lying down. Positioning it at the center also heightens the vulnerability of users, since one cannot see who is passing by from behind. All this is to inhibit long term use, and thus is a minor form of hostile design, even if it is a form of social commons. Other minor elements added to serve residents are bicycle racks, which are heavily used. However, there are currently no good places for delivery bikes to quickly park and safely keep without a hassle. These elements are created for residents in mind rather than delivery personnel.

Bicycle rack for safe keeping, but inconvenient usage for short term keeping for delivery bikes

Back facing open area, leaving people feeling vulnerable 2 Steel benches do no offer activity other than speaking

Noticeable lack of table for eating or placing items

HDB Void deck with 2 steel benches. Underutilized space, and bench does not allow for multi-use activities.

Benches for 4 facing each other in the middle

Bicycle rack

Void deck area

HDB VOID DECK WITH AMENITIES SOCIAL COMMONS

Wall provides sense of security, but isolates bench

Lone bench with no opportunity for activities to be held

Low ledge offers additional seating

HDB Void deck with single seat and ledge

Low ledge defining space

Benches for 2 facing nowhere

Low ledge defining space

HDB VOID DECK WITH UNIQUE SEATING SOCIAL COMMONS

Circular formation creates equal seating hierarchy

Table doubling as base for board games, using tiles to denote game board

6 seats around a round table creates opportunities for groups to gather

HDB Void decks with 6 seater and table. Table allows for congregation, but doubles as a place for games

Table for 6 at the void deck

HDB LIFT LOBBY SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

The lift lobby is one key area in each floor of the block where every neighbor must pass through. This gives the lobby area a heightened importance, a convergent point for both visitors and residents alike. If we were to imagine a front porch as the entrance before the actual house, then the lift lobby is the front porch to each floor before entering ones unit. This is especially more so on the first floor, where the entire occupants of the block must pass through. The lift lobby on the first floor then, becomes a hub for residents of the block to gather. Most use it for its utilitarian purposes, but the opportunity for chanced interactions is made possible by elements such as seating ledges and postboxes. Residents use the ledges to wait for taxi, or their friends, and with this offer a chance to meet their neighbors in between. Situating it beside the 5 footway but not obstructing also means those passing by for shelter also have a chance to interact with those seating by the ledge. By merging social infrastructure with the inherent needs of services, one can design subconscious behaviors of interaction with small elements such as this.

Block level amenities like postbox located in the lobby where everyone will pass by

Each HDB block has a lift lobby, acting as a convergent point for transit to/from the upper floors, serving as gathering point for block neighbors

Ledge allowing those waiting for lift to sit, or acting as a gathering point

5 footway maintained for passer by without entering lobby area

HDB Lift lobby with ledge and letterbox

Exit to rear of HDB block Void deck used as kindergarten

Lift lobby & lift to upper floors

ledges as seats, waiting for lift or their taxi rides Void deck covered 5 footway Path to carpark, pick up point

Void deck used as kindergarten

HDB STAIR WAY GROUP BUY STALL SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS SOCIAL COMMERCE SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS Group buy stall owners typically operate out of their homes, both as a convenience, and to reduce cost in typical brick and mortar stalls. This however, creates space constraints for creating a stall front for customers, and receiving packages. Their homes become warehouses, taking out entire rooms or dining area.For some, the corridors allow for a temporary stall front to be set up for customers. Having a recessed area before the gate is vital, offering a space for foldable tables without blocking the main walkway. A 3.5m or more space is the typical space needed due to the bulk of items, which usually means 2 front gates width plus extra. Any lesser would mean a tighter space constraint. This secondary layout style is used when there are no recessed pockets to deploy, resulting in using leftover spaces, such as staircase landings. This is not ideal, but serves as the only possible solution. Opening it by the main corridor risks anger from neighbors, who might contest encroaching by their front gates. Such stalls are temporary in nature, and must be kept after the day as it is obstructing fire exits as well.

Staircase access blocked for fire exit

Deployable tables that can be folded and stored when not in use, preventing obstruction

2.5m Corridor giving just enough space to line up items

Group buy stalls are set up beside their own units for easy retrieval of additional items

Corridors are possible, but face anger from neighbors if deployed

HDB end corridor with group buy items

Staircase core

Row of HDB units Storefront by the side, using leftover space HDB corridor

Mediated ownership of corridor realm by individual units prevents store front from being set up

HDB CORRIDOR GROUP BUY STALL SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL COMMERCE

Group buy stall owners typically operate out of their homes, both as a convenience, and to reduce cost in typical brick and mortar stalls. This however, creates space constraints for creating a stall front for customers, and receiving packages. Their homes become warehouses, taking out entire rooms or dining area.For some, the corridors allow for a temporary stall front to be set up for customers. Having a recessed area before the gate is vital, offering a space for foldable tables without blocking the main walkway. A 3.5m or more space is the typical space needed due to the bulk of items, which usually means 2 front gates width plus extra. Any lesser would mean a tighter space constraint. Time sharing is crucial in this set up, due to the temporary nature of Group buy. It operates by a fixed collection time basis, and thus when not in use, all equipment should suitably be stored and kept. The space constrains also presents a conflict point between neighbors. Consideration of space, storage, and its temporary usage must be considered

Additional items are stored in the house due to insufficient space outside or work area Recessed area acting as porch for items without blocking corridor

Foldable tables for temporary placement

corridor acting as queue area

3.5m recessed area

HDB corridor with group buy items

Corridor leads to 2 private HDB units

HDB corridor unblocked

HDB corridor pocket, temporarily adapted as a store front

HDB CORRIDOR WITH STORAGE SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

The HDB corridor is a staple of all HDB blocks, serving as a horizontal connection between flats. Yet beyond the utilitarian purpose, it has been transformed to a vibrant and active communal space by various flat owners. This connection has become a commons in itself, with homeowners appropriating it with multiple items, such as clothes hanger, storage shelves, shoe cabinets, and plants. The composition of the corridor allows for such items due to its 2.2m width, creating additional space without encroaching on a comfortable walking space. One should also note the possibility of this happening due to mutual mediation between neighbors. As this is a common space, marking ownership and who gets what space is entirely upon the trust and reciprocity of all homeowners. While this creates friction if the trust is lost, the space still offers a chance for such sharing practices. By having the flat windows facing directly to the corridor, it gives the visual surveillance needed to prevent wide spread theft or abuse. Space storage is a factor in such housing units, so where better than to store bulky and relatively cheap items along the corridor.The corridors width allows for a 600mm wide storage system, leaving enough clearance space for people to walk by. While it is vulnerable to rain or sun, storage boxes are a simple solution to this. One should note that taking over a lift lobby space where every neighbor in that floor uses requires trust across the entire floor.

2.2m Wide berthing space allows for placing objects without obstructing

Extra space used as extension for storage among various residents

Makeshift open storage system

HDB Lobby with personal items along ledge

HDB Lobby as the central convergent point

HDB corridor assimilated through defined objects

HDB LOBBY WITH TABLES AND CHAIRS SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

The rubbish chute area is not one area people will think when designing commons. Yet when given the opportunity, people take advantage. The unique layout of this lobby, whereby a wall separates the lift exit and the rubbish point, creates a small nook that has enough privacy for conversations between neighbors. By adding a table and chair, the once forgotten space becomes this pocket of gathering among friends. The tea cups and objects indicate a level of trust despite being vulnerable to theft. This example showcases how a utilitarian and sometimes unwelcome sight brings opportunities for appropriating, given the right circumstances. The key is privacy without enclosure. The open frame draws light in, illuminating the space well and giving a view out. Baring the occasional smell from the rubbish chute, this area is made possible by the intrinsic privacy given by the wall, a sizeable 3.5m by 2.5m space, and open frame.

Unique nook beside lift allows for semi-private space

Tea set on table suggests a level of trust among neighbors

Wall provides privacy from lift lobby, creating ideal pocket space

Additional chair for visitors

Open frame allows views out and light in

HDB Lift lobby nook with loose personal furniture

Private enclave defined

Lifts

Common path out to HDB units

HDB LOBBY BOOK DEPOSITORY SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

The lift lobby is one key area in each floor of the block where every neighbor must pass through. This gives the lobby area a heightened importance, a convergent point for both visitors and residents alike. If we were to imagine a front porch as the entrance before the actual house, then the lift lobby is the front porch to each floor before entering ones unit. This small book depository initiative is a fascinating example of a lift lobby imagined as a front porch. The seats and plants act as a rest point, highlighting the porch like entrance. The wall is used as a backdrop for decors, facing those leaving the lift lobby to great them. The books are placed by the seats to maximize the most footfall one would expect. The spacious 3.5m wide lobby facilitates such additions without obstruction or cluttering the area. As important as the main functions of the building are (in this case housing units), one cannot ignore the meditative spaces possible throughout the journey. While this was a case of using what is given, the question begets on how social commons can be so much more when planned with intentionality for opportunities such as this.

Excess 4m width in a lift lobby as a floor "front porch"

wall used as backdrop decor

Entrance facing lobby allows for a convergent point between neighbors to experience library without entering into deeper areas

HDB lift lobby with small chairs and books

Lift Lobby acting as a front porch/ living room to the entire level

Lifts

HDB CORRIDOR WITH PLANTERS SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

The HDB corridor is a staple of all HDB blocks, serving as a horizontal connection between flats. Yet beyond the utilitarian purpose, it has been transformed to a vibrant and active communal space by various flat owners. This connection has become a commons in itself, with homeowners appropriating it with multiple items, such as clothes hanger, storage shelves, shoe cabinets, and plants. The composition of the corridor allows for such items due to its 2.2m width, creating additional space without encroaching on a comfortable walking space. One should also note the possibility of this happening due to mutual mediation between neighbors. As this is a common space, marking ownership and who gets what space is entirely upon the trust and reciprocity of all homeowners. While this creates friction if the trust is lost, the space still offers a chance for such sharing practices. By having the flat windows facing directly to the corridor, it gives the visual surveillance needed to prevent wide spread theft or abuse. Plants are a common sight due to the many elements that support such practices. The metal railings allow hooks to be added for hanging plants, while the open drain at the side allows excess water to flow easily. Plants are an easy way to beautify the corridor, and thus is practiced by many homeowners

2.2m Wide corridor allows objects to be added without obstruction

Window facing corridor helps with surveillance of personal objects

Metal railings act as hook bars for hanging plants

Outdoor drying area for clothes

Potted plants along corridor, using existing drainage for plants Existing side drainage helps double up for plant water drain

HDB Corridor with plants and personal items. Appropriation of corridor is a common sight in HDB flats

Row of 4 - 6 HDB units, private spaces

Ambiguity of ownership partition managed by direct line of sight

Occupation of the side of the corridor, semi-private spaces

HDB UNIT WITH A HOME DINING TWIST SOCIAL COMMONS SOCIAL COMMERCE

Home dining presents a unique insight into how the existing program can be transformed and commercialized. Time sharing is the key here, where the dining room serves as gathering space for families, but can be shared as a fine dining experience for guests. It may not have the same bulk of guests like a restaurant, but home dining leans its strength on its intimacy, serving groups individually. This experience is a win win - whereby guests have an extremely tailored experience that is different from eating out, while the cook is able to curate a very personal experience while saving immense costs by not opening a brick and mortar cafe. The layout of a HDB flat facilitates this by its nature of a living/dining room with a fairly large kitchen. Various chefs have used various means, but the most common space used are the kitchen and dining room. New BTO models, with its direct connection between the kitchen and dining area, create a visual dining concept as well, where guests have a direct view on the chefs cooking.

Home kitchen double as kitchen for home restaurant or baking Living room transformed to dining area for 6

Closeness between kitchen and dining area allow for easy conversion

HDB unit converted to home dining enterprise

Dining room, public realm for visitors

Kitchen

Inaccessible private rooms of unit