Abstract:
Mahidol University, Salaya Campus is located far from Bangkoks metropolitan area. Thus, to avoid a long commuting time, most students choose to stay in accommodation close to the campus. However, due to an increase in the number of the students annually, there is an inadequate supply of off-campus accommodation. As a result, Property Perfect Public Company Limited has decided to invest in a dormitory project called Uniloft Salaya, which offers a condominium-like atmosphere to attract residents. However, no data has ever been collected regarding the residents behaviour towards the use of residential areas and facilities. As a result, this study aims to examine whether such usage corresponds to what the projects designers have intended so that the residents demand can be better met. In other words, the results will shed light on how residents make use of common facilities and the space inside their room. The methodology included interviews, observation, note-taking and photographing. The findings reveal the following characteristics. Regarding own space usage, activities were conducted in Bedroom 1 and Bedroom 2 to the extent that they went beyond the capacity of what had been designed. In terms of the recreation area, activities were conducted in line with the designers objective. Nevertheless, it was discovered that the area was also used for food heating and washing dishes for which the designers unfortunately had not made sufficient room. Concerning the bathroom, activities were conducted in line with the designers objective. However, it was discovered that it was also used for doing the laundry which, in turn, made the residents feel physically uncomfortable. In regards to the changing room, activities were conducted in line with the designers objective, but there were also additional activities which could easily make it dirty. Finally, as for the balcony, activities were conducted in line with the designers objective. However, no clothes lines had been prepared. Regarding their own facility usage, the residents used the facilities provided by the operator. However, it was discovered that additional equipment had been purchased to suit individual lifestyles. Regarding the use of common in-house facilities, they were used according to the designers objective. Unfortunately, most residents used them at the same time, causing an insufficient supply. As a result, some had to rely on facilities elsewhere. It can be concluded that the project has designed an area and facilities which can meet the residents needs. However, it is worth noting that since most residents are students, they may seek a common area to engage in extra activities such as holding group discussions or doing term papers. The project imposes a limitation on this matter because it fixes opening and closing times. Therefore, to better address their needs, it is suggested that the project operator take this matter into consideration.