Abstract
The main intention of this thesis research is the investigate the role and relevance of network analysis tools, specifi cally space syntax in the analysis of social interaction within residential buildings. Space syntax analysis is commonly used in public spaces with unrestricted access such as museums. However, residential buildings are the opposite of that as the unit spaces have restricted access and hence, this study would aim to investigate the relevant tools in space syntax that can be used for the analysis of residential buildings. The research methodology that will be undertaken in this thesis project would comprise of 3 main sections. Literature review on the factors affecting social interaction within a residential building would fi rst be conducted in order to provide a qualitative side of designing for interaction in residential buildings. Selected case studies of HDB blocks in Singapore will then be used to conduct space syntax analysis on to fi nd out the relevance of the tools available in the analysis of residential buildings. Surveys will also be carried out with the residents of these case study HDB blocks to fi nd out the frequency, intensity and desirability of the interactions that happen within the block in order to draw correlations between the analysis values and corresponding interaction quality. With these research findings, a design methodology with the use of the space syntax will then be developed in order to design for an cohesive residential complex that would involve encouraging social interactions within the housing community.