Socializing in the suburbs: relationships between neighbourhood design and social interaction in low-density housing contexts

ABSTRACT

This study investigates interrelationships between correlates of social interaction, levels of social activity and common neighbourhood design characteristics of low-density suburbs. Qualitative and quantitative methods were combined. Analysis of 247 surveys of residents in three low-density Australian suburbs confirmed interrelationships between levels of social activity, social interaction correlates and five groups of physical characteristics: (1) street layout, (2) pedestrian environment, (3) neighbourhood connectivity, (4) public space provision and (5) dwelling form. After allowing for the effect of socio-demographic and social proclivity selection factors, street type, tree coverage and provision of open space were found to significantly predict Neighbourhood Contentment.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.