Fourth year Research in Architecture Year 2020-21
SMEF’S Brick School of Architecture Pune
JOURNAL FOR PUBLISHING RESEARCH
PAPER
Topic: A study of user response regarding safety in
gated communities
1. Journal of Urban Affairs
1. Focus: This journal publishes research on urban issues including housing, safety,
urban planning, and policy.
2. Why suitable: research paper focuses on safety perceptions in gated communities, an
important topic in modern urban living.
3. Type: Double-blind peer review.
4. Link: Journal of Urban Affairs
5. Frequency: Published 5 times a year, usually in February, April, June, September, and
November
2. Urban Studies
1. Focus: This journal publishes cutting-edge research on a wide range of topics related
to cities and urbanization, including safety and security in urban housing.
2. Why suitable: research on gated communities fits within the journal's scope,
particularly in urban development and safety.
3. Link: Urban Studies Journal
3. International Journal of Urban and Regional Research (IJURR)
1. Focus: An interdisciplinary journal focusing on urban dynamics, safety, housing, and
spatial developments.
2. Why suitable: Your study on gated communities addresses key issues like urban safety,
security perceptions, and planning.
3. Link: IJURR
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Fourth year Research in Architecture Year 2020-21
SMEF’S Brick School of Architecture Pune
4. Journal of Urban Planning and Development (ASCE)
1. Focus: Covers all aspects of urban planning and development, with a strong emphasis
on security, housing, and community welfare.
2. Why suitable: Your research can contribute to discussions on urban development,
particularly related to safety in housing.
3. Link: Journal of Urban Planning and Development
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Fourth year Research in Architecture Year 2020-21
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A study of user response regarding safety in gated
communities
Evaluating Safety Dynamics and Trust within Secured Residential Spaces
Abstract
User satisfaction in gated communities has become a critical area of study due to the
increasing popularity of these residential complexes. This research highlights the
importance of a holistic security approach that integrates advanced technology, active
community involvement, and effective communication to enhance overall safety and
resident satisfaction. The findings reveal that gated communities experience a low crime
rate as compared to non-gated areas. The research employs a mixed method approach
combining quantitative analysis of crime statistics and qualitative survey and interview of
residents in multiple gated communities. For cultivating discussions regarding the
connections between gated community territory, safety, and crime experience, this study
classified apartment communities according to the conditions of their Security. Studies
suggest that when residents feel connected to their neighbors and share a common
understanding of safety concerns, their overall perception of safety improves. On the other
hand, a lack of community interaction or social fragmentation within a gated community
can lead to feelings of isolation and insecurity, regardless of the physical safety measures
in place. The primary objective of this study is to explore the user response to safety
measures. While much of the focus in gated community development is on physical
security infrastructure, there is a growing recognition that social and psychological factors
are equally important in shaping a sense of safety. The research will delve into various
factors that influence residents' perceptions of safety, including physical security
infrastructure, the design and layout of the community, and the social dynamics within the
township.
Keywords - safety, gated community, housing, user satisfactions, sense of community
and security, eyes on street.
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Fourth year Research in Architecture Year 2020-21
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Literature Review
Gated communities are defined by their restricted access and controlled entry points, aimed at
enhancing residents' security. These communities are designed to provide a sense of safety
through physical barriers and security personnel, which can influence residents' perceptions and
experiences of safety. (Blakely & Snyder, 1997).
Residents of gated communities generally report feeling safer compared to those in non-gated
areas. This perceived sense of security is one of the primary reasons people choose to live in
gated communities. According to research, the controlled access, physical barriers, and
presence of security personnel contribute significantly to this perception. For instance, research
has shown that there is no significant difference between the actual crime rates in gated and
non-gated communities. Despite this, the sense of exclusivity and the presence of security
measures like gates, fences, and surveillance systems give residents a stronger sense of security.
This psychological benefit is a key factor in the popularity of gated communities, even though
the physical barriers might not always be as effective as expected in preventing crime (Latiff &
Utaberta, 2015)
Gated communities are designed to create a sense of security by controlling access and using
surveillance technologies like CCTV cameras and security personnel. Research suggests that
these features contribute to lower crime rates within gated communities as compared to non-
gated areas (Atkinson & Blandy, 2005).
The desire for gated communities is in part a reflection of growing concerns about crime in
urban areas, manifested through increasing usage of private security by more affluent groups.
This in turn may contribute to the physical and social segregation within cities and in the
planning process the security gates in the existing wall were treated as a minor design detail. A
higher proportion were gated communities than in Barton and Silverman’s study; 37% provided
gates or fences, and 31% a security patrol (Blandy et al., n.d.)
(Jacobs ,1961) emphasizes the importance of "eyes on the street," where public spaces are
naturally monitored by residents, thereby reducing the likelihood of criminal activity. In gated
communities these principles are critical in designing safe environments, especially in
common areas such as playgrounds and walkways.
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A study by ( Mukherjee and Zerah, 2017) found that residents of gated communities in Indian
cities prioritize security infrastructure such as gated access, CCTV cameras, and 24-hour
security personnel. However, their findings also highlight the importance of community
engagement and trust in fostering a safe living environment. While physical barriers provide a
sense of control, the social dynamics within these communities significantly influence the
residents’ feelings of safety.
For young adults, particularly singles or newly married couples, security is a significant factor
in choosing to live in gated communities. Research indicates that young adults are often
concerned with the safety of their property and personal security, especially in the context of
rising crime rates in urban Cairo. So, the presence of security measures such as guarded
entrances, CCTV surveillance, and patrolling security personnel enhances the feeling of safety
by featuring high walls, guarded entrances, and 24/7 surveillance systems. These physical
barriers are effective in deterring unauthorized access and reducing petty crimes such as theft
and vandalism. (Osman et al., 2021)
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Fourth year Research in Architecture Year 2020-21
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OUTLINE OF PAPER
A study of user response regarding safety in gated
communities
1. ABSTRACT:
1.1 . To assess the level of user satisfaction in gated communities
1.2 . Importance of user satisfaction
2. KEY WORDS:
user satisfaction, urban trends, gated communities, identity, housing,
sense of community, eyes on street
3. INTRODUCTION:
3.1. Importance of studying user satisfaction in gated communities
3.2. Overview on urban trends and gated communities
3.3. Depending factors on user satisfaction
3.4. users’ motivation for moving into a gated community
3.5. Purpose of review
4. TITLE: Exploring User Satisfaction in Gated Communities
5. SUBTITLE: Evaluating Safety Dynamics and Trust within Secured Residential
Spaces
6. LITERATURE REVIEW:
6.1 . Previous research on user satisfaction in gated communities
6.2 . Review of past studies from research papers
7. METHODOLOGY:
7.1. Approach – Qualitative
8. DATA COLLECTION AND DATA ANALYSIS:
8.1. Case study 1: AMANORA FUTURE TOWERS, AMANORA PARK TOWN,
HADAPSAR, PUNE
8.2. Case study 2: MAGARPATTA CITY, HADAPSAR, PUNE
8.3. Comparative study of both case study:
9. RESEARCH DISCUSSION
10. CONCLUSION:
10.1. Overall review of the user satisfaction and motivation for moving in gated
communities
10.2. Implications and recommendations
10.3. Solutions
11. ANALYSIS:
12. REFERENCES
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Fourth year Research in Architecture Year 2020-21
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METHODOLOGY
The methodology outlined for this research provides a structured approach to gather, analyze,
and interpret data regarding user responses to safety in gated communities. The research is
designed to be both qualitative and quantitative, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of
the residents’ perspectives, the effectiveness of safety measures, and any discrepancies
between perceived and actual safety.
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Fourth year Research in Architecture Year 2020-21
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A STUDY OF USER RESPONSE REGARDING SAFETY
IN GATED COMMUNITIES
Harsh Agrawal a Abhang kamble b
a Student of SMEFS bricks school of architecture
b assistance professor of smefs bricks school of architecture
Abstract
User satisfaction in gated communities has become a critical area of study due to the increasing
popularity of these residential complexes. This research highlights the importance of a holistic security
approach that integrates advanced technology, active community involvement, and effective
communication to enhance overall safety and resident satisfaction. The findings reveal that while gated
communities experience low crime rate as compared to non-gated areas. The research employees a
mixed method approach combing quantitative analysis of crime statistics and qualitative survey and
interview of residents in multiple gated communities. The study highlights the safety perceptions and
the need of security solutions
Keywords: Safety, Gated community, housing, user satisfactions, sense of community and
security
Introduction
Gated communities often promote themselves as secure havens that offer residents a sense of peace and
protection. However, it is essential to assess whether these perceived advantages of gated living
translate into a genuine feeling of safety among the residents. This study aims to explore how residents
of Magarpatta City, Hadapsar, and Amanora future towers perceive their safety and security, focusing
on various aspects such as physical security measures, lighting, surveillance, and overall design.
Additionally, it will investigate the role of community trust, visual connectivity, and how environmental
factors influence residents’ sense of security. A sense of safety is derived from more than just the
presence of security personnel or cameras. For many residents, the design and layout of the community
also play a crucial role in shaping their perception of safety. For instance, well-lit streets, the presence
of green spaces, clear sightlines, and controlled traffic patterns can enhance feelings of security.
Conversely, isolated areas, poorly maintained surroundings, or high-density living conditions may lead
to heightened feelings of vulnerability, even in the presence of advanced security measures.
Literature review (500 to 700 words cited material only)
Gated communities are defined by their restricted access and controlled entry points, aimed at enhancing
residents' security. These communities are designed to provide a sense of safety through physical
barriers and security personnel, which can influence residents' perceptions and experiences of safety.
(Blakely & Snyder, 1997).
Residents of gated communities generally report feeling safer compared to those in non-gated areas.
This perceived sense of security is one of the primary reasons people choose to live in gated
communities. According to research, the controlled access, physical barriers, and presence of security
personnel contribute significantly to this perception. For instance, research has shown that there is no
significant difference between the actual crime rates in gated and non-gated communities. Despite this,
the sense of exclusivity and the presence of security measures like gates, fences, and surveillance
systems give residents a stronger sense of security. This psychological benefit is a key factor in the
popularity of gated communities, even though the physical barriers might not always be as effective as
expected in preventing crime(Latiff & Utaberta, 2015)
The desire for gated communities is in part a reflection of growing concerns about crime in urban areas,
manifested through increasing usage of private security by more affluent groups. This in turn may
contribute to the physical and social segregation within cities and in the planning process the security
gates in the existing wall were treated as a minor design detail. A higher proportion were gated
communities than in Barton and Silverman’s study; 37% provided gates or fences, and 31% a security
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Fourth year Research in Architecture Year 2020-21
SMEF’S Brick School of Architecture Pune
patrol (Blandy et al., n.d.)
For young adults, particularly singles or newly married couples, security is a significant factor in
choosing to live in gated communities. Research indicates that young adults are often concerned with
the safety of their property and personal security, especially in the context of rising crime rates in urban
Cairo. So, the presence of security measures such as guarded entrances, CCTV surveillance, and
patrolling security personnel enhances the feeling of safety feature high walls, guarded entrances, and
24/7 surveillance systems. These physical barriers are effective in deterring unauthorized access and
reducing petty crimes such as theft and vandalism.(Osman et al., 2021)
The role of security personnel in gated communities is central to the perceived safety of residents. Well-
trained and vigilant security staff contribute significantly to the feeling of safety within the community.
The community also provide biometric access control, video surveillance systems, and alarm systems.
The psychological comfort provided by these security measures is especially important in areas where
crime rates may be higher due to urbanization pressures.(Jacob & Chander, 2020)
Methodology
The methodology outlined for this research provides a structured approach to gather, analyze, and
interpret data regarding user responses to safety in gated communities. The research is designed to be
both qualitative and quantitative, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the residents’
perspectives, the effectiveness of safety measures, and any discrepancies between perceived and actual
safety.
Data Collection and Data Analysis
CASE STUDY 1 - AMANORA FUTURE TOWERS, AMANORA PARK TOWN, HADAPSAR,
PUNE
1. Gated Entry Points: Multiple controlled access points with security personnel to monitor and
manage entry and exit.
2. Perimeter Fencing: High-quality fencing around the complex to prevent unauthorized access.
3. 24/7 Security Guards: Trained security person stationed at entry points and patrolling the
premises round the clock.
4. Visitor Management System: Strict protocols for visitor registration and verification to enhance
security.
CASE STUDY 2 - MAGARPATTA CITY, HADAPSAR, PUNE
Comparative study of both case study:
Conclusion:
Future Implications:
References:
Public Goods and Private Communities, Edward Elgar, Aldershot (Foldvary F, 1994)
Satisfaction Level of Gated and Guarded Community Residents (Mohd et al., 2016)
A Conceptual Model for Assessing Residents’ Satisfaction in the Case of Gated Communities: An
Analytical Literature Review (Osama Osman, 2022)
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