Adapting and interacting with home design during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The spread of COVID-19 and its associated health risks have caused people to stay inside their homes for long periods, changing the home’s function from simply being a dwelling to a place that supports varied activities. These new activities were not planned for the original house design; the pandemic forced people to fit these activities within the available space during lockdowns. The purpose of this study was to identify how people adapted and interacted with their home designs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research followed the screening process recommended in the PRISMA Statement by reviewing the literature on home design published during the pandemic to provide an overview of how people adapted and interacted with their home design in different countries. Five databases were searched, and 10 studies were ultimately included. The review showed that people adapted the available spaces by connecting the features of existing spaces with new activities. For example, the privacy of bedrooms allowed them to become learning or workspaces through the addition of appropriate furniture and accessories. Previously unused spaces also began to be occupied. People changed the way they view their homes. However, challenges remained for some activities because of the absence of appropriate infrastructure, leading to a lack of space, storage, privacy, lighting, quiet, views, and fresh air. This study’s contribution should help designers and those working in the housing sector to design flexible housing that is suitable for sudden and stressful conditions and guarantees its residents’ quality of life.

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