The Impact of COVID-19 on Housing Design and New Approaches for Multi-Housing

In response to contemporary urban challenges, architectural practices have increasingly embraced rapid production methods to address emerging needs. However, this approach to production and consumption has generated various problems, which became more evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Challenges across urban and architectural scales such as the lack of public and green spaces, circulation and accessibility issues, and ecological issues has become more important. It was observed that the existing urban fabric contributed to higher rates of disease transmission. Consequently, lockdown measures were imposed to mitigate the spread of the virus which leaded to extended time spent at home. The necessity for people to stay at home during the pandemic created a sense of “confinement” which is caused by the problems associated with housing design. Disconnection from the environment and the limited access to green and public spaces contributed to this feeling of isolation. This study critically examines problems of the current housings and their relation to urban fabric through literature review and spatial analysis, focusing on issues at both urban and individual housing scales. Housing unit issues are addressed through specific spatial elements, and new solutions are proposed. Key aspects, such as the relationship between ground-level housing and the street, apartment living spaces, rooftop areas, and circulation spaces are analysed. Solutions are developed within a theoretical framework, aiming to address future crises as well as pandemic-like situations. The study concludes with a design proposal: a vertical housing model that aims to support everyday needs such as socializing, working, resting, and learning, while enabling social interaction and engagement with the surroundings in an adaptable and sustainable living environment. In conclusion, the issues highlighted by the pandemic are not new and may reemerge in the future. Therefore, architecture must continue to develop innovative solutions that address both social and environmental needs.