Post occupancy and participatory design evaluation of a marginalized low-income settlement in Ahmedabad, India

A participatory design approach in low-income settlements can enhance user satisfaction but may lead to contradictory environmental outcomes due to limited awareness and financial constraints. This study, conducted in Ahmedabad, India, demonstrates that combining post-occupancy evaluation (POE) with participatory design reveals complex power dynamics and hierarchical agencies within the built environment. It underscores the need for a socio-technical approach that integrates environmental standards with contextual socio-cultural needs while planning for future growth. The research highlights the importance of incremental, affordable demonstration projects to foster inclusive development and long-term sustainable transitions in housing developments.

Sharmin, T., & Khalid, R. (2021). Post occupancy and participatory design evaluation of a marginalized low-income settlement in Ahmedabad, India. Building Research & Information, 50(5), 574–594. https://doi.org/10.1080/09613218.2021.2018286