Homeless Interactions with the Built Environment: A Spatial Pattern Language of Abandoned Housing

Abstract

Research demonstrates that homeless individuals use urban space in adaptive and endemic ways. Investigations at city and neighborhood scales would benefit from attention to homeless use of abandoned housing. We employ the pattern language approach developed by Christopher Alexander for twenty-two abandoned houses in Newark, Ohio. We use statistical and geospatial data analyses to evaluate hypotheses related to prospect and refuge site qualities, accessibility, and attractiveness to homeless persons, and the proximity of sites to resources. Factors related to prospect/refuge, accessibility, and resource proximity were consistent with the hypotheses. Results can be grouped into four distinct patterns: ‘Hiding Places,’ ‘Welcome Mat,’ ‘Shelter (Un)becoming,’ and ‘Proximity to Resources.’ Based on these patterns, we conclude with recommendations for officials and organizations addressing homelessness.