Classification of Optimal Spatial Configuration in Affordable Housing Using Space Syntax

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Master of Science in Architecture (Housing Specialization), Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.

2 Assistant Prof, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.

3 Associate Prof, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jfaup.2025.395650.673081

Abstract

In recent years, the growing demand for housing and the rising cost of land—especially in rapidly expanding developing cities—have accelerated vertical urban growth and further intensified the urgent need for affordable housing units. This issue is particularly critical in cities such as Zanjan, where spatial and economic constraints are more pronounced and increasingly challenging. In such contexts, the absence of appropriate spatial layouts and minimum quality standards in housing units can negatively impact both individual well-being and overall urban livability. Accordingly, this study aims to propose an optimized spatial configuration for affordable housing units in Zanjan by employing Space Syntax as a reliable and effective analytical method for evaluating spatial arrangements.
In the literature review, the qualitative components of affordable housing were identified and their relationship with Space Syntax indices was examined using a descriptive-comparative approach. Subsequently, the layout and configuration of 114 two-bedroom units were analyzed, and after refinement, 40 samples with diverse patterns were categorized into three distinct types. Using simulation and Space Syntax analysis methods, the types were evaluated based on qualitative components, and the average score for each type was calculated. The conclusion identified three optimal spatial arrangement types along with their corresponding spatial structures and proportional dimensions. In both the first and second types, the entrance is located at the end of the geometric plan’s length. The difference is that in the first type, which scored 38.7, after the entryway, the kitchen is positioned in the second depth, located between and connected to the entrance and the living room. In contrast, in the second type, which scored 40.3, the living room itself is situated at the second depth. In the third type, which scored the highest (40.9), the entrance is positioned at the center of the geometric plan structure, and public and private spaces are divided on either side of the entrance. The results suggest that functional zoning into public, private, and service areas—along with attention to spatial depth, connectivity, and integration—can significantly enhance spatial performance, even in units with a limited total floor area. In particular, careful consideration of spatial hierarchy, entrance positioning, and the relationships between key spaces such as kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms plays a critical role in improving layout efficiency and overall spatial organization. That is to say, the use of Space Syntax techniques can effectively support the physical and functional components of an optimal configuration for affordable housing. Among the evaluated types, Type 3 demonstrates the most balanced composition of these elements and may serve as a practical and suitable model for future affordable housing design in similar urban contexts. Meanwhile, although Type 1 received the lowest score, it still has the potential for improvement through minor design modifications, particularly in entrance placement and the redistribution of service areas.
Ultimately, the findings of this study can serve as a solid foundation for enhancing the design quality of affordable housing, firmly grounded in the principles and methodologies of Space Syntax analysis.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Fine Arts: Architecture & Urban Planning
Volume 30, Issue 2
November 2025
Pages 37-54

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