Including the majority: Examining the local social interactions of renters in four case study condominiums in Sydney

Sian E.L. Thompson*, Hazel Easthope, Gethin Davison

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Although an ever-increasing number of social interactions are taking place virtually, people’s relationships with their neighbors remain important. Apartment residents make up a growing proportion of the population in cities worldwide, but there is evidence that many find it challenging to form and maintain local social connections, especially those renting their home. This can negatively impact physical and mental health, and have implications for the management of apartment complexes and local area social sustainability. In this paper, we draw on interviews (n = 41) with renters of four large case study condominium complexes in Sydney, Australia, to investigate their local social interactions. The findings reveal that while many renters desire greater local connection, their opportunities and motivations are limited by factors relating to mobility, tenure security, prejudice, and exclusion from building-related governance. The paper concludes by considering the scope for interventions in design, management and governance to enhance opportunities for social connection.

Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of Urban Affairs
Early online date14 Apr 2022
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 14 Apr 2022

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
This research was supported by an Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship, and a UNSW Built Environment PhD Publication Award. Thanks to all the participants who made this research possible, and to the anonymous reviewers who assisted in strengthening this paper.

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 Urban Affairs Association.

Keywords

  • Apartments
  • density
  • design
  • planning
  • social connection
  • weak ties

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geography, Planning and Development
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Urban Studies

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