The Effects of the transition from public to private spaces in the urban low-income houses on family life: Swarna Place, Colombo as a case study

Abstract

In Sri Lanka, Colombo accommodates most urban low-income settlements, which are predominantly self-built and characterized by dense spatial arrangements. In these congested houses, the transition from public to private spaces is often unclear and abrupt, affecting residents’ spatial usage and family life, posing the question of how transitional spaces in the house influence family life. This study examines how such transitions affect family life in low-income households, with a special focus on Swarna Place, an urban settlement in Colombo. A literature review on urban low-income housing and its impact on family life, along with a pilot study, was conducted. The road-to-house distance, threshold spaces, and spatial connections were selected as parameters for studying spatial transitions. The functional use of spaces and weekend activity types were analyzed to understand families’ spatial use and interactions. Ten cases covering the settlement were selected, and spatial plan data were gathered through on-site measurements, observations, and photographs. Family life and spatial use data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews, and photographic and video recordings. Spatial connectivity and spatial use analyses were conducted to examine the impact of spatial transition on family life. Findings reveal that road-to-house distances and garden spaces are minimal or absent. A small threshold often serves as the only transition between the street and the house. The living room functions as the main family space, with most bedrooms opening to it, enhancing connections and interaction but compromising privacy. The study concludes that improved spatial planning between public and private zones in the house is essential to balance interaction and privacy, thereby enhancing family life. Broadly, it emphasizes integrating transitional spaces into future housing schemes to promote family well-being while maintaining privacy. The outcomes can support in-situ upgrading projects that respect residents’ spatial behaviors.