Problems Faced by Ground-Floor Residents in Vertical Housing: A Field Study in the 1500-Unit Social Housing Complex in Bouzaaroura

Abstract

This study is meant to diagnose the nature of the problems faced by ground-floor residents in the vertical housing complex in the 1500-unit social housing complex in Bouzaaroura. It examined the social, environmental, health, and physical dimensions of these problems to underline their impact on the residents' quality of urban life. The research employed a descriptive-analytical approach, relying on a field questionnaire intended to observe the manifestations of daily suffering and identify the contributing factors.
The results revealed that ground-floor residents suffer from a range of consistent problems, primarily limited privacy and frequent social interaction due to closeness to entrances and shared spaces. Environmental problems included waste accumulation, foul odors, and high humidity levels resulting from inadequate ventilation and sanitation. Physical difficulties were also noticed, related to the lower floor level compared to street level, leading to water leaks, cold winters, and excessive summer heat. The study concluded by stressing the need to improve the design and ground-floors arrangement and to enhance periodic maintenance programs to improve the quality of residential life.