Importance of Social Space in Self-built and Donated Post Disaster Housing after Java Earthquake 2006

Housing reconstruction cases without cultural sensitivity had resulted in rejection. These raise challenges to understand the importance of cultural background and how it affects residents’ lifestyles. This study investigated self-built and donated housing through on-field research with questionnaires, interviews, and field observations. Items related to dwelling usage, behavior adjustments, evaluation and community activities participation were obtained. Results suggest that residents adjust their physical behavioral aspects to maintain previous social behavior lifestyles, though evaluations indicate dissatisfaction with the unchangeable donated housing design. Social interactions importance, flexibility and open ended design in housing are advantageous for their post disaster recovery.