TKM College of Engineering

HOUSING
PROF. RAMEES RIFAS

Module II- Housing

Typology

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Syllabus | Housing typology | Housing density | Importance of standards, regulations, laws on
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SYLLABUS

Module II- Housing Typology

• Characteristics of Housing in different regions and their

typology - detached housing, row housing, cluster
housing, apartments etc.
• Housing density- net density & gross density
• Importance of standards, regulations, laws on
contemporary practices for housing and habitat
development- KMBR,NBC, URDPFI etc.

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IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS
Urban Planning and Development: Knowledge of different housing types allows
urban planners and architects to design communities that meet the specific
needs of the population, considering factors like density, cultural preferences,
and available resources.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact: Housing characteristics influence

energy consumption, land use, and environmental sustainability. For example,
the choice between high-rise apartments and detached homes can
significantly impact a region’s carbon footprint.

Cultural Identity and Social Fabric: Housing is not just about shelter; it reflects
cultural identity and social structure. Different regions have developed unique
housing styles that resonate with their history, climate, and way of life.
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IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS

Economic Considerations: Housing types are closely tied to the economic

status of a region. Affordability, land availability, and economic growth all
play roles in determining the prevalent housing typologies in an area.

Policy and Regulation: Governments and local authorities use housing

characteristics to guide zoning laws, building codes, and housing policies,
ensuring that development is in line with regional goals and needs.

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FACTORS INFLUENCING HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS

Geography and Climate:

Geographic location and climate play a pivotal role in housing design. For instance, houses
in colder climates often feature steep roofs to prevent snow accumulation, while homes in
tropical regions may include large windows and open spaces to enhance ventilation.
Material selection also varies, with brick or stone commonly used in regions prone to
extreme weather, while wood may be preferred in mild climates.

A house in a cold A house in a tropical A house in a mild

climate with a steep region with large climate, built with
roof to prevent snow windows and open wood
accumulation spaces to enhance
ventilation
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Syllabus | Housing typology | Housing density | Importance of standards, regulations, laws on
contemporary practices
FACTORS INFLUENCING HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS

Cultural Preferences:
Cultural norms and historical context influence housing styles.
Traditional designs may reflect local customs, religious practices,
and historical architecture, while modern designs often Modern and traditional
housing typologies
incorporate contemporary aesthetics and new technologies. For
example, in some cultures, communal living spaces are essential, 1 2
Economic
whereas Factors:
others prioritize privacy and individual space.
Affordability and Income Levels: The economic status of a region
dictates the types of housing that are prevalent. In areas with
3
higher income levels, there is often a greater diversity of housing
1. Luxury home,
options, including luxury homes and high-end apartments. 2. Middle income
housing
Conversely, in lower-income regions, affordability drives the 3. Urban Housing

demand for more

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Syllabus | Housing typology | Housing density | Importance of standards, regulations, laws on
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FACTORS INFLUENCING HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS

Urbanization:
As cities grow and populations increase, housing must adapt to
accommodate the rising demand. Urbanization often leads to
the development of high-density housing options, such as
apartments and row houses, to efficiently use limited space. urbanization and
housing demand
This trend is particularly evident in rapidly growing cities in
Asia and Africa,
Regulatory where housing demand is outpacing supply.
Environment:
Zoning Laws and Building Codes: Government policies and
regulations significantly impact housing characteristics. Zoning
laws determine what types of buildings can be constructed in
specific areas, while building codes ensure safety, health, and
environmental standards are met. These regulations shape the building and code
diagram
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Syllabus | Housing typology | Housing density | Importance of standards, regulations, laws on
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DETATCHED HOUSING

Definitions

• A house that is not joined to any other house (Collins

English Dictionary)
• Detached housing refers to a single-family home that is free-
standing and does not share any walls with adjacent
properties. A detached house
Characteristics:
Privacy & Customization Opportunities : Detached houses offer a high degree of privacy since
they are separated from neighboring homes by yards or gardens. Homeowners of detached
houses have greater freedom to customize both the interior and exterior of their homes, from
renovations to landscaping.
It must be understood that a detached house can take on any form or style.
No walls of the structure are connected to another dwelling, the house remains to be a
detached house. of
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SEMI- DETATCHED HOUSES
Definitions

A house that is semi-detached is one that is joined to another similar house on only one side
(Cambridge Dictionary)

Examples of semi-
detached houses
Characteristics:
• A semi-detached house is a pair of houses joined together by a common wall.
• One side of each house shares a common wall, while the other is detached.
• One advantage of living in a semi-detached house is that there is still a level of privacy even
if one wall is shared by the two houses.
• Cannot do extensive renovations and extensions as we have to consider twin house.

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1
ROW HOUSES

Definitions
• One of a series of houses connected by common sidewalls and
2
forming a continuous group (Merriam Webster Dictionary)

• Series of Similar Houses Built in a Row: Row housing consists

of a series of houses that are identical or very similar in design,
Examples of Row houses
built side by side in a row. These homes share common walls with
• Efficient Land Use: Row housing is designed to maximize the use of land, particularly in
Characteristics:
their neighbors on either side, except for the end units
urban areas where space is limited. By sharing walls, these homes minimize land
consumption and construction costs.
• Uniform Design: Row houses often have a consistent architectural style and layout,
creating a cohesive look throughout the neighborhood. This uniformity can also help
streamline the construction process.
• Urban Settings: Row housing is commonly found in densely populated urban areas, where
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CLUSTER HOUSING

Definitions
Cluster housing refers to a group of homes that are built in
close proximity to each other, often organized around
shared common spaces such as gardens, courtyards, or
pedestrian pathways. This arrangement fosters a sense of
•Community Feel: Cluster housing is designed to promote social interaction
Exampleand a strong
of Cluster
Characteristics:
community among residents. housing
sense of community. The shared spaces, such as communal gardens or courtyards,
encourage neighbors to connect and engage with one another.
•Shared Amenities: Residents of cluster housing often have access to shared amenities like
playgrounds, swimming pools, or clubhouses. These amenities are typically maintained
collectively, reducing individual responsibility for upkeep.
•Smaller Lot Sizes: Homes in cluster developments are usually built on smaller lots compared
to detached housing. This allows for higher density within the development while still
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APARTMENTS
Definitions
Apartments are residential buildings designed to
house multiple families or individuals within
separate units. These buildings can range from
low-rise structures with a few floors to high-rise Example of an Plan of an
• Apartments are a key housing solution in areas with high population density, allowing a
Characteristic
Apartment Apartment
Building Building
towers that dominate city skylines.
s: large number of people to live in a relatively small area. This makes them ideal for
cities where land is scarce and expensive.
• Residents of apartment buildings share common infrastructure such as elevators,
hallways, lobbies, and parking facilities. Maintenance of these shared spaces is typically
managed by a building association or property management company.
• Apartments represent a form of vertical living, where homes are stacked on top of each
other rather than spread out horizontally. This allows for efficient use of space in urban
environments, where land is at a premium.
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Urban planners, architects, and policymakers use these density metrics to assess the
efficiency of land-use, transportation needs, infrastructure requirements, and the overall
character of a neighbourhood or housing development.

GROSS RESIDENTIAL DENSITY

Gross Residential Density (GRD) – It is the number of housing units divided by gross
residential area .Gross residential area includes all facilities upto neighborhood level like
parks, roads and school. GRD is generally expressed in units per hectare.
Gross Residential Density = No. Of dwellings/Gross Residential Area

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NET RESIDENTIAL DENSITY

Net Residential Density (NRD) – It is a measure of housing density expressed as dwelling

units per hectare. The net residential area includes only residential plot area (including
access roads & incidental open spaces) and can be calculated as follows:

Net Residential Density = Number of dwellings/Net Residential Area

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IMPORTANCE OF STANDARDS, REGULATIONS AND LAWS

TITLE STANDARDS REGULATIONS LAWS

A Reference Document that Detailed instructions on how The system of rules, or statutes
provides details or laws are to be enforced or made by the government of a country,
Definition specifications, guidelines or carried out. state, or City.
requirements for products, • Sometimes referred to as ‘rules’
services and systems or ‘administrative laws’
Their application is not Their application is mandatory. Their application is mandatory.
mandatory, but may be
Enforceme
adopted into regulations
nt
making them legal
requirements
Developed A non-governmental committee A Governmental agency The Government (under an Act)
by
Groups of experts from all Does not have to go through the A bill has to be written, sponsored by a
over the world form committees bill process. With regulations, an legislator, debated and passed through
agency holds a public hearing both the House of Representatives and
Process and after that hearing makes the Senate after various committee
a decision on either adopting, and budget hearings before going to
changing or rejecting the the executive to be signed into law
regulation
URDPFI Guidelines, 2014 1. KMBR, 2019 Rental law – Rent control act
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Examples Time-Saverof
Standards,1983 2. Health & Safety Act Regulation S9 B. Arch 15
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Syllabus | Housing typology | Housing density | Importance of standards, regulations, laws
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NEED FOR HOUSING STANDARDS, REGULATIONS AND LAWS?

• To provide a healthy and safe living experience for all

residents.
• To protect the environment from unhealthy
development.
• Structural Integrity: Standards set guidelines for construction
• practices
To followand
a system thatensuring
materials, is dynamic, flexiblecan
buildings andwithstand
efficient. environmental
• stresses
Process that
suchisasless time consuming,
earthquakes, simple
floods, and strong&winds.
effective.
• Health and Safety: Regulations help prevent hazardous conditions like
poor ventilation, inadequate fire safety measures, and unsafe electrical
systems. For instance, NBC and KMBR include safety measures to
mitigate risks associated with building fires and structural failures.
• Quality Control: Consistent standards guarantee that construction
practices meet a certain quality level, reducing defects and ensuring
that buildings are safe for occupancy.
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URDPFI- Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and
Implementation
Overview of URDPFI Guidelines
Standardization: To provide a uniform framework for the
formulation and implementation of urban and regional
development plans across the country.
Sustainability: To promote sustainable urbanization by
integrating environmental, social, and economic
considerations.
Inclusivity: To ensure the participation of all
stakeholders in the planning process.
Efficiency: To streamline the planning process and make it
more responsive to the dynamic needs of urban and regional
areas.

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URDPFI- Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and
Implementation
Response to Challenges: Developed to address issues such as rapid urbanization, unplanned
growth, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation.

Significance of URDPFI Guidelines

• Serves as a critical tool for urban planners,
local governments, and policymakers.
• Facilitates balanced regional
development by considering both urban
and rural needs.
• Ensures that urban planning aligns with
broader economic, social, and
environmental objectives.

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URDPFI- Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and
Implementation
Volumes of URDPFI Guidelines
Volume 1: Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and
Implementation

Focu
• Provides a detailed framework for formulating and implementing urban and regional development plans.
• Covers the planning process from preliminary studies to plan approval, implementation, and monitoring.

s
Key Components:
• Planning Process: Steps for creating comprehensive development plans.
• Public Participation: Guidelines on incorporating stakeholder input.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Methods for tracking progress and outcomes.
Volume 2: Planning Norms and Standards

Focu
Establishes standardized norms and standards for various aspects of urban and regional planning.
Key Components:

s
• Land Use Norms: Guidelines for zoning, density, and land use allocation.
• Infrastructure Standards: Minimum standards for infrastructure, including roads, water supply,
sewage, and public facilities.
• Environmental Standards: Requirements for environmental conservation, green spaces, and
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URDPFI- Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and
Implementation
Volumes of URDPFI Guidelines
Volume 3: Special Areas/Groups and Miscellaneous Provisions

Focu
Addresses the unique needs of special areas and groups, along with additional provisions for specific circumstances.

s
Key Components:
• Special Areas: Guidelines for planning in areas with unique characteristics, such as hilly
regions, coastal areas, and heritage sites.
• Vulnerable Groups: Provisions for planning that supports marginalized communities, including
slum areas, tribal regions, and economically weaker sections.
• Miscellaneous Provisions: Includes provisions for emerging challenges and innovative planning
practices.

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URDPFI- Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and
Implementation
Objectives of URDPFI Guidelines
Ensuring Sustainable Urban and Regional Development
Promote development that minimizes environmental impact, conserves natural
resources, and enhances the quality of life for all citizens.
Ensure that urban and regional development benefits all segments of the population,
with special attention to marginalized and vulnerable groups.
Foster economic growth that is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, supporting
long-term
Promoting development
Integrated goals.
Planning Practices
Holistic Approach: Encourage the integration of land use, transport, housing, and
infrastructure planning to create cohesive and functional urban and regional environments.
Cross-Sector Collaboration: Facilitate collaboration among various sectors, including
government agencies, private sector, and civil society, to ensure that development
plans are comprehensive and well-coordinated.
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URDPFI- Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and
Objectives of URDPFI Guidelines
Implementation

Standardizing the Planning Process Across Regions

Uniform Guidelines: Provide a standardized framework that ensures consistency in the
planning process across different states and regions in India.
Best Practices: Incorporate best practices and benchmarks that can be adapted to local
contexts, ensuring flexibility while maintaining high standards.
Capacity Building: Strengthen the capacity of local planning authorities to implement
standardized processes effectively.

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URDPFI- Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and
Implementation
Few URDPFI Guidelines Regarding Residential Development

Indicative Dwelling
unit Sizes

Means of access
Every building/plot shall abut on
a public/private means of
access like streets /roads.

Sport facilities

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)

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NBC- National Building Code

National instrument providing guidelines for regulating the building construction

activities across the country.
Purpose of NBC
• Ensure safe and sustainable construction practices.
• Standardize building practices across the country.

History
• First published in 1970 by the Bureau of Indian
Standards (BIS).
• Updated periodically, with the latest edition being
Objectives of NBC
NBC 2016.
• Safety:- To ensure the safety of occupants from fire, earthquakes, and other hazards.
• Health and Hygiene:- To maintain health standards through proper ventilation,
lighting, and sanitation.
• Structural Integrity:- To ensure the strength and durability of buildings.
• Sustainability:- To promote energy-efficient and environmentally friendly construction
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practices.
Syllabus | Housing typology | Housing density | Importance of standards, regulations, laws
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NBC- National Building Code
It serves as a Model Code for adoption by all agencies involved in building construction
works whether they be Public Works Departments, other government construction
departments, local bodies or private construction agencies. The Code mainly contains
• administrative regulations
• development control rules
• general building requirements; fire safety requirements; stipulations regarding materials,
structural design and construction (including safety); building and plumbing services;
approach to sustainability; and asset and facility management
Implementation and Compliance
Role of Local Authorities: Enforcement of NBC guidelines through building approvals,
inspections, and certifications.
Compliance Requirements: Mandatory compliance with NBC for new constructions,
alterations, and extensions of buildings.
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
Department of Legal implications and penalties for not adhering to NBC
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KMBR- Kerala Municipality Building Rules & KPBR- Kerala Panchayat
Building Rules

• Documents prepared by Govt. of Kerala

• Containing building rules which are applicable for all
lands which are proposed to be all developments
and buildings existing/proposed in any
municipality/village panchayat
• These rules are applicable to public and private
buildings carrying out any construction/ alteration/
KMBR Related To Coverage, Far, Setbacks
change of use/extension/ removal

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