Spatial strategies within residential units to address pandemics.

Abolghasem Aminaei¹ Mahdieh Moeini² Mitra Kamyabi³

1) Islamic Azad University of Karaj Email:
2) Islamic Azad University of Kermam Email:
3) Islamic Azad University of Kerman Email:

IOI Code : AAHE-ACZDZH
Publication : National Conference on Civil Engineering, Design and Construction Technologies, Energy, Materials and Advanced Machinery(icaeu.ir)
Abstract :
    This research addresses the spatial strategies within residential units designed to cope with pandemics. The study aims to identify and present indicators that enable the residential unit to meet residents needs during a pandemic crisis. It is posited that specific indicators exist to address these needs, raising the question: which indicators effectively meet residents requirements during a pandemic? The research is conducted through a review of documents and literature, alongside content analysis.Strategies to minimize the entry of contaminants into the residential unit include creating an area adjacent to the entrance equipped with facilities for washing, disinfection, and the quarantine—using safe ultraviolet (UV) irradiation—of items that cannot be washed. Additionally, this involves establishing a suitably sized space designed for therapeutic use, accommodating necessary medical equipment and instruments, and featuring surfaces (floors and walls) made of disinfectable materials, a dedicated ventilation system with HEPA filtration, and a negative air pressure system to prevent the outward spread of contamination.Furthermore, factors such as ventilation, air quality, thermal comfort, adequate lighting, and the spatial flexibility of residential units play a significant role in the physical and mental well-being of residents—both during pandemics and in ordinary times. These elements enhance resident resilience and influence the likelihood of residents remaining in the space or wishing to return to it. By fostering a positive human-environment interaction, these factors create a suitable living environment that boosts resilience during situations requiring prolonged stays at home, remote work, and similar circumstances; this resilience stems from the positive psychological impact these factors have on the residents.

Keywords : epidemic diseases therapeutic measures residential space