Density and Transformation on Small Plot Residential Neighborhood; The Case of Mekelakya Sefer, Addis Ababa
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Date
2019-06-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The research is conducted to understand the residential density, housing transformation
and the relation between the two in a small plot residential neighborhood commonly
known as ‘Mekelakya Sefer’. The neighborhood is made up of plots ranging from 63.5m2
– 78.8 m 2. The site has been chosen because of its small size and the extensive
transformation it has undergone.
The research is explanatory in its nature and has both qualitative and quantitative
analysis. Interviews, maps, random survey sample and purposive case study samples
were used to gather data. The research mainly employs timeline comparative study
between the original and current state of the neighborhood for analysis and interpretation.
The study found that Housing unit density was decreased and conversely household
density has increased in the site due to housing transformation. The housing unit density
owes its decrease due to the extensive joining of small plots to make larger ones. And
the increase of household density is mainly through the wide spread practice of
house/room rent within a housing unit.
Regarding housing transformation, there are two types of transformation; Extension type
and Tabula rasa type. From the different motives of housing transformations,
transformation due to Socio-economic reasons are the prevalent motive of transforming.
Houses transform not to increase or decrease the density but to have more space for
their socio economic activities. From these activities 2 (two) activities stand out as the
factor to determine residential density change. These are Joining of plots and house/room
rent. Joining of plots decreases housing unit density and house/room rent increases
household density.
The study recommends the encouragement of regulated transformation activity as
they provide affordable housing to tenants. At the same time, transformation increases
and residential and commercial ‘mixity’1 of the neighborhood which is one of the goals of
compact city. The study also recommends that allotted plots should not be too small as
to push owners to merge them as one plot
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Keywords
Residential density, Housing transformation, small plots