Designing out ASB? An exploration of the relationship between environmental design and residents' perceptions of antisocial behavior

The problem of antisocial behavior (ASB) or minor incivilities in housing has attracted extensive attention from the governments and general public in many jurisdictions. In spite of the deployment of various approaches, ranging from family intervention and probationary tenancies to statutory orders, the ASB problem still proliferates in many parts of the world. As suggested in the literature, ASB can result in reduced residential satisfaction, poor physical and mental health and social disruption. However, how design or planning of residential neighbourhood affects the extent of ASB perceived by the residents has been ignored in previous studies. Drawing on the findings of a structured questionnaire survey on owner-occupiers of private multi-owned housing developments in Hong Kong, this study aims to explore the link between environmental design of a housing community and residents’ ASB perceptions empirically. Its findings suggest that floor plan configuration, corridor enclosure and number of flats per floor significantly affect the perceived ASB level. On the other hand, the degree of gating and building height are insignificant factors. Policy and practical recommendations then follow.