Urban form and Psychological Sense of Community: The role of intermediate spaces in collective housing in Jijel, Algeria

This study explores the relationship between urban form and the psychological sense of community (PSC) in collective housing contexts, focusing on six residential complexes in Jijel, Algeria. While prior research has examined factors such as length of residency, functional diversity, and quality of living environments, less attention has been paid to how urban forms particularly the design and organisation of shared spaces affect social interactions and residents’ sense of belonging. Urban form, including the layout of streets, buildings, and shared spaces such as courtyards and pathways, plays a crucial role in structuring social behaviours and strengthening neighbourhood relationships. By facilitating informal encounters, well-structured communal spaces foster interpersonal interactions and reinforce PSC. The study, based on data collected from 400 residents and analysed using ANOVA, hypothesised that well-designed intermediate spaces would encourage greater social engagement and a stronger PSC. Results showed that residents in neighbourhoods with structured and hierarchical intermediate spaces reported significantly higher PSC levels and more frequent social interactions. Conversely, those living in fragmented environments with limited shared spaces experienced greater social isolation. However, the study has limitations, including its focus on a single city and one type of collective housing, which may not fully reflect the diversity of urban experiences. Additionally, it does not account for long-term behavioural adaptations or variations in residents’ personal preferences, underscoring the need for further research in other contexts and qualitative approaches to deepen understanding of social dynamics. These findings highlight the need to integrate well-structured intermediate spaces into residential planning. Urban planners should priori-tise spatial hierarchies, pedestrian-friendly environments, and well-maintained common areas to strengthen PSC. In rapidly urbanising areas, aligning design with social needs can foster cohesive communities, reinforcing urban planning’s role in social well-being.