A Process Oriented Model of Residential- Housing Congruence(Case Study: Contemporary Housing in Yazd)

Problem statement: 

Assessing a desirable living environment hinges on the compatibility between human needs and the built environment, making it a crucial factor. Consequently, numerous studies have focused on the concept of compatibility. Despite extensive research, there is still no practical theoretical model for studying the compatibility process in the relationship between residents and their residences. Many studies have focused on the outcomes of compatibility and incompatibility between residents and housing, considering compatibility as both a consequence and a goal within the relationship. However, the compatibility process of residents to their residences is a topic that has received less attention in research.

The primary aim of this study is to investigate how Yazdi individuals are compatible with contemporary housing. The ultimate goal is to develop a theoretical, process-oriented model for studying the compatibility of residents with their residences.

The research primarily employs a qualitative approach, and data analysis is conducted using qualitative content analysis.

The research findings indicate that individuals in middle housing adopt more active approaches in order to establish compatibility between themselves and their residences. They engage with the housing or modify their behavior in the space. However, in new housing, residents are less engaged with their residences, and due to the unresponsiveness of the space, they become indifferent to it. In the absence of restrictions, some even choose to relocate from their residences. Despite three critical factors, including the physical environment, residents’ needs, and housing capabilities, data analysis in the study shows that residents’ age and generation, participation in the construction process, housing patterns, length of stay in housing, memories, and relationships with neighbors all have a significant impact on how compatible residents are with their residences.