Student Name
ABUYA Z. NYAPENI
Project Supervisor
ARCH. KIGARA KAMWERU
Degree Programme
BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE
Status
Completed
Registration Number
REG.NO. B02/0895/2013
Academic Year
2018/2019
Project year
2018
Abstract

Densification refers to the increase in compactness achieved through increased use of a space both horizontally and vertically.

This paper aims at finding out the existing conditions on both the highly densified areas and the less dense areas and then comparing the impacts both have on the lives of the people living at the residential zones adjacent to the CBD of Kisumu city.

Detailed analysis of selected case studies (Upper Railways Estate, Polyview Estate, Kenya Breweries Quarter and Lolwe estate) was appropriate in getting data required for the research. The analysis was aimed at responding to the aims and objectives of the research:1. To find out the impacts of both high and low densification of residential areas on the quality of life and on the environment, discussing the following parameters was crucial: (a)Proximity to the work places, (b)The quality of kid’s play areas with reference to properly designed cases both locally and internationally, (c) Quality of parking spaces (adequacy, security, proximity to the dwellers and their level of conflict with other spaces.) With reference to local cases that are functional. (d) Washing and drying areas location and adequacy, (e) Garbage disposal, (d) Privacy levels within the units, (e) Proximity to social facilities i.e. schools, medical centres and churches, (f) Availability of a Community centre e.g. a common hall or amphitheatre, (g) Levels of insecurity and the main causes of insecurity, (h) Environmental friendliness (pollution levels),

 

From the fieldwork analysis conclusions made are that, several residents preferred working closer to their dwelling spaces, proper spacing of living residential blocks was necessary to allow for quality open spaces that can comfortably accommodate kids’ play areas, parking spaces and nice clothe airing spaces, Proper planning of the housing units should be done to allow for proper natural ventilation and lighting to all liveable spaces, The number of entrances and their location in any estate was crucial in dealing with issues of insecurity, Social centres in an estate were crucial in promoting cohesion and integration.

 

From the field study, scientific analysis and conclusions drawn, one of the most appropriate recommendation is that residential areas adjacent to the CBD of any fast-growing town should be properly planned to allow a good number of residents to access social facilities around the CBD and also the population working around the CBD to get to work easily.