Open space availability and practices: Cognitive strategies for quality open space in Hong Kong public housing estates

The challenges of developing and maintaining open space are global. Open space affects the quality of the environment for working, living, and recreation. The open space challenges in Hong Kong are uniquely related to landmass development patterns, city densities, and city structures. All these factors interplay differently to affect open space availability and use in Hong Kong. This study examines how to achieve quality open space in Hong Kong public housing estate, by investigating the relationship between open space availability and practices. The study adopts a case-study approach, a multi-stage sampling procedure, triangulation method of data collection, and qualitative method of data presentation and analysis. It relies on primary and secondary sources of data collection through complete qualitative observation, literature review, and conceptual framework of “meaning of action” in the study areas. The study shows that the desired use of open space in relation to the available land supply should be integrated to reflect specific meanings. The availability of open space influences the quality of open space design, the quality of user satisfaction, and, subsequently, the general practice. The study recommends a strategic framework to achieve quality open space. The available open space, users, and a purpose-driven design should be considered and integrated with other element of the framework to achieve quality open space.