The Box: Designing Slum Settlements to be Liveable and Inclusive

Abstract

The rapid population growth in major cities across Indonesia has triggered housing problems due to limited land availability and high property prices. This phenomenon has led to the emergence of slum settlements on illegal land, including in Medan City. One example is Kampung Aur, a densely populated settlement located along the banks of the Deli River, which is known for its high crime rates and vulnerability to flooding. While vertical housing development offers a potential solution to land scarcity, simply providing residential units is not sufficient to address the complex social and environmental issues in Kampung Aur. Therefore, the concept of “kampung susun” is proposed as an alternative form of vertical housing that not only optimizes spatial use but also preserves the sense of community and facilitates harmonious social interaction among residents within a more organized living environment. By adopting a container-based modular architectural approach, kampung susun can be constructed more quickly, at lower cost, and with better quality assurance. In addition to providing decent and affordable housing units, kampung susun is also equipped with supporting facilities such as green open spaces, communal areas, and micro-business spaces, which are expected to enhance residents’ quality of life and overall well-being.