Conceptual framework for designing and placement of open spaces in a residential neighborhood

Abstract

Open spaces are the breathing outlets in the anatomy of any residential neighborhood. The play generated in the plan through these voids ad mist the vast jungle of concrete is the ingredient of a well-planned layout. They connect the society through their varied social usage and act as a refresh command in the life of people from all age groups, finding ways to cure a large number of mental ailments and crimes majorly caused due to seclusion and odd family structures. In the changing times, however, the definition and need of the subject has taken a new shape. People prefer watching a cinema in a home theater than watching ramleela in open ground. With the change in the economic stature, many things in the society have changed generating new modes of comfort and relaxation. This eventually has given rise to a society which is highly gentrified. People prefer living in their own niche, which seems to be cozy but is actually a socially secluded environment. It is therefore important to understand the changing trends and reorient the spaces, to make it more acceptable for all. The concept of open spaces in a residential area needs therefore needs a makeover. This paper would thus aim at analyzing the open spaces and their hierarchy in some selected residential areas of Jaipur city (India). Major aspects of the study would be to understand the type of open spaces, their paucity, usage and location, study of changing trends and needs and arriving at certain planning proposals and design guidelines to improve the urban form and active living of the people.