Social responses to contemporary design of private outdoor residential spaces

Amid rising housing density and climate-related pressures, residents are informally adapting their living environments in ways that highlight overlooked social needs in contemporary residential design. This study examines how inhabitants of multi-family buildings in Poland, respond to spatial and psychological inadequacies by modifying private outdoor spaces. Drawing on field observations of 1,317 balconies across 25 buildings and a resident survey, the findings show that 38.46% of balconies were enclosed using materials such as plastic sheeting or wooden panels – mainly to enhance privacy and protection from falling objects, sun, wind, or noise. In some buildings, over 70% of residents made such changes. While often visually disruptive, these grassroots adaptations reflect a broader social response to architectural shortcomings. Notably, 68% of respondents see balconies as potential tools for climate adaptation, especially through greenery. The study underscores the need for more flexible, user-responsive housing strategies that support well-being, environmental adaptation, and people-oriented sustainability.