Transformations : study of users modified middle income housing in New Delhi

In India, increasing urbanization has aggravated the complex problems of escalating property prices and increasing housing shortage. To solve this housing crisis, the government housing authorities are engaged in providing mass housing solutions, which often fail to fulfill the expectations of the millions of people living in these housing colonies. As a result, homeowners often choose to update their dwelling units, whether legally or illegally, to suit their changing needs. It is thus critical to understand this process of transformation and more importantly, to assist people in providing better housing solutions within the context of their reality. This thesis examines the development of housing transformations among the growing middle-class in New Delhi and offers guidance to the people who are willing to improve their lives by modifying their homes. Study and analysis of three Middle Income Group (MIG) housing projects, Dilshad Garden, Janakpuri and Munirka in New Delhi, helped to identify the diverse aspects of this process. This study underlines some inherent factors and problems that govern residential modifications at all levels and aims to help homeowners gain maximum returns from their investment. It provides professional support to people enabling them to undertake efficient, safe and organized housing transformations, thereby contributing to the improvement of the standard of housing in New Delhi.Applied Science, Faculty ofArchitecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA), School ofGraduat