The Role of Neighborhood Space in Fostering Sense of Community In Affordable Housing Communities In Shanghai

The rapid economic growth in China has intensified wealth polarization and increased the amount of low- and moderate-income people in urban area. In response to people’s growing needs of housing, Chinese governments have constructed large volume of affordable housing projects. However, the insufficient and low-quality community facilities and spaces, as well as weak neighbor interaction, may insert negative impact on residents’ sense of community. This study aims to explore the connection and reciprocity between the neighborhood space and the building of residents’ sense of community. I employed empirical case study in the research, and observations, surveys and interviews are used to collect data. Based on the comparative case study and regression analysis of the data, my findings suggest that the sufficiency, accessibility and utilization of neighborhood physical space, as well as people’s familiarity of the community, perception of neighbor interaction and willingness to talk and help, have significant correlations with the degree of residents’ sense of community. Policy recommendations are provided in order to promote the community development of affordable housing communities in China.