The adaptation of defensible space theory for the design development of kindergarten landscape

Abstract

This research addresses the safety of kindergarten premises in Malaysia due to improper planning of the landscape area. Crimes in Malaysia that revolve around kindergarten premises have repeatedly occurred throughout the years. Hence, this study addresses the issue with reference to Defensible Space theory. This study identifies the presence and absence of landscape principles of Defensible Space theory which are natural surveillance, territoriality, image and milieu, in the chosen effected premises and suggest modifications to the existing guideline for kindergarten landscape development in Malaysia. Through a qualitative research, this research collects data via means of document analysis, case study, interview and observation. Document analysis is adopted to determine the landscape architectural variables of Defensible Space theory and kindergarten outdoor space utilization and its elements. A case study is chosen to identify the physical deficiencies of the premises that contributed to the crime based on the absence and presence of Defensible Space principles. Structured interviews are carried out to determine demographic data. Lastly, observation is carried out at chosen case studies to recognise the spatial form and presence and absence of Defensible Space principles. Two relatively similar kindergartens with history of criminal occurrence are chosen as case studies to observe the presence and absence of the said principles in which Kindergarten 1 shows a presence of only 62.5% of defensible space while Kindergarten 2 shows 70%. The results of both kindergartens are used in the development of a general recommendation for the space utilisation of kindergarten landscape in Malaysia. The outcome will affect landscape designers in creating layouts and providing elements for the kindergarten outdoor areas and kindergarten owners in providing at least the minimum requirement for the outdoor area.