Towards a Model for the Assessment of Low-income Housing: A case study in Egypt

Abstract Egypt is currently witnessing an unprecedented development in the sector of low-income housing. So far, little research has investigated the extent to which such projects have contributed to the genuine satisfaction of the residents. Residential satisfaction (RS) describes the sense of fulfillment when someone has what he needs in a home. RS is a well-known criterion for planners, architects, experts, and decision-makers. Due to its remarkable significance, many models have been developed to assess RS in different places of the world. Residence is a highly complex concept with physical, psychological, and social implications. That is why it is believed that the particularity of every community shall prioritize the elements of RS in different ways. The present research is meant to develop an appropriate model for assessing residential satisfaction in low-income housing projects in Egypt. Towards this objective, the study undertakes an analytical review of previous RS models and examines them against the Egyptian context. The sought-after model shall address the characteristics of three primary domains: the residential unit, the neighborhood facilities, and the social environment. Accordingly, the outcome of this study provides an effective framework that can help developers and decision-makers to enhance their future housing schemes based on a more profound understanding of the individuality of the local context. Hence, contributing to the improvement of the built environment in Egypt.