Bamboo Housing in Costa Rica: an Analysis of a Pilot Housing Program

Abstract

This research study identifies and evaluates social/cultural, physical, and economic parameters that impact the use of bamboo as an indigenous construction material for low-income housing in developing countries. A post-occupancy study was performed utilizing a pilot housing project for low-income Indian families in Costa Rica. Participant-observer analysis of interior and exterior design elements based on cultural/social, physical, and economic parameters was included. A combination of interview, questionnaire, visual documentation, and site observation techniques was utilized. The findings served as a basis for proposing improvements in design and philosophy that could be used with bamboo housing projects for low-income families.

Qualitative and quantitative results indicated that bamboo is an acceptable, low-cost, locally available, renewable material which lends itself to self-construction methods. If housing project directors carefully consider the needs, values, and views of inhabitants, bamboo is a useful material in the provision of adequate, affordable, and culturally acceptable housing in developing countries.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Adrienne C. Ham

Adrienne Ham is Associate Professor of Housing and Interior Design at McNeese State University, Lake Charles, Louisiana.

JoAnn Shroyer

JoAnn Shroyer is Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Merchandising, Environmental Design, and Consumer Economics at Texas Tech University, Lubbock.