Spatial Recomposition of Shophouses in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Abstract

This study had the aim of explaining the mechanisms of autonomous spatial recomposition of shophouses in Phnom Penh (Cambodia), along with understanding the current status of spatial recomposition of these dwellings based on a field survey. Four detailed case studies were chosen for analysis and it was discovered that three points can be raised as causes for spatial recomposition: (1) securing living space, (2) securing independence and (3) changes in access method and four locations can be raised as spacial recomposition locations: (a) dwelling unit interior, (b) residential block interior, (c) city block space and (d) space between residential blocks. In addition, the results of analysis of 60 buildings and 74 dwellings showed 289 spatial recomposition locations. In particular, it is characteristic that there are a high number of extensions to residential block interiors and many instances of privatization of corridors, addition of kitchens/bathrooms, interiorization of terraces and construction of small rooms on roofs can be seen. By organizing the spatial recomposition methods, it was discovered that eight ways exist: (1) stacked layer, (2) installation of interior floors, (3) addition of kitchens/bathrooms, (4) appropriation of space outside the dwelling, (5) fencing in space, (6) closing of stairways, (7) installation of stairways, and (8) removal of walls.

Labor-intensive industries in middle-income countries: traps, challenges, and the local garment market in Thailand

“…Shophouses are normally two or three storie buildings, where in the lower floors manufacturing or other commercial activities take place, and the upper floors primarily serving as residence units of the owners or workers, or both. While such shophouses are disappearing along with the rapid urbanization and modernization of urban spaces in Southeast Asia, they are still widely observed in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore (Lee et al 2008;Wakita and Shiraishi 2010). Her shophouse-factories are basically three-storied buildings, in which the first floors are mainly used for cutting, the second for assembly and finishing (sewing and ironing), and the third as residential areas for the workers and as storage rooms of the materials.…”

Transformation of Shophouses in Phnom Penh, Cambodia: In the Aspect of Spatial Organization

“…Shophouses are tenement buildings with shops on the ground floor and living quarters on the upper floors [16]. These buildings were originally built on narrow and long plots and grouped as urban blocks in Chinese districts.…”

Characteristics of the Spatial Structure of Kosts Private Rental Housing: A Case Study of the Urban Settlement of Jakarta, Indonesia

“…It is understandable that residents begin to carry out space extensions to compensate for their lack of living space (Wakita, 2010). Personal territory expansion by tenants such as occupying common space to store their personal items was noticed, mainly because of the lack of space in their rooms.…”