Exploring the Acceptability of Compact Housing as a Sustainable Strategy to Enhance Housing Affordability in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant rise in housing development, propelled by increasing demand for affordable housing. This demand surge positions compact housing as a viable sustainable approach to meet housing needs efficiently. This study employs a mixed-method approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative methods, to assess the acceptance of compact housing in Saudi Arabia. Through a comprehensive survey, it investigates public attitudes of various compact housing design features. The findings reveal a fair degree of acceptance for compact housing solutions, with an average agreement score of 3.12 out of 5. While open-plan layouts with reduced partitions and the integration of contemporary furniture were the most preferred design features, certain elements, such as shared walls with neighbours and the merging of guest and living spaces, were less favoured. These observations provide insights into the preferences and attitudes of Saudi residents towards compact housing. The study suggests that promoting collective housing types, such as attached, semi-attached, or apartment-style homes, may play a key role in lowering housing costs and broadening availability. However, achieving these goals will necessitate a comprehensive understanding of the socio-cultural preferences of residents to ensure the suitability of these housing options now and in the future.