ARCHITECTURE WITHOUT ARCHITECTS: SPATIAL BEHAVIOUR OF THE HOMELESS IN KUALA LUMPUR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21837/pm.v24i44.2272Keywords:
Homelessness, Architecture without Architects, Spatial Behaviour, Kuala Lumpur, Maslow’s Hierarchy of NeedsAbstract
Shelter is one of the human basic needs. One of a person’s necessities is a place to live. Homelessness in Kuala Lumpur is a growing concern, and this study explored how homeless people navigate through Kuala Lumpur’s urban spaces for survival. It aimed to understand their sleeping habits and how the decisions reflect the basic human needs. The study employs a qualitative approach through observation and appraisal in five identified homeless concentrated nodes in Kuala Lumpur: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Chow Kit, Masjid Jamek, and Pudu. An appraisal was used to record homeless behaviours, using thematic analysis to detect trends. The data collected indicate that self-built shelters, valuable organisations, well-lit areas, and coverings are intentional survival strategies. Through the interpretation of the theories of Architecture without Architects, Hierarchy of Needs, and Environmental Psychology, the data show that homeless individuals may adapt to public spaces to secure safety, privacy, belonging, and dignity. These behaviours, even under deprived conditions, demonstrated that humans will naturally adapt themselves to meet their basic needs. The study found that homeless people’s spatial behaviour was an intentional strategy and that, unlike current law enforcement strategies, understanding it may yield more inclusive design and policy solutions to eradicate homelessness in Kuala Lumpur.
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