Suburban Residents’ Preferences for Livable Residential Area in Finland

Abstract

This paper analyzed Finnish suburban residents’ preferences (including their perception of wood as a building material) for livable residential areas through a survey questionnaire. The 243 responses received highlighted the following: residents were generally satisfied with the general condition of their residence; the majority supported life in one- to two-story buildings and a low-density residential environment; living in the center was found more attractive by most; the most popular facade material was wood; considerations regarding the immediate environment, e.g., proximity to nature and child-friendly areas in the immediate vicinity, were evaluated as important parameters; participants’ attitudes towards the use of wood in construction were generally very positive; residents generally considered wooden buildings more beautiful, more environmentally friendly/ecological, and as having a healthier indoor climate than buildings made of non-wood materials; and fire safety and cost-competitiveness were issues of skepticism. It is believed that this study will provide insights to key stakeholders, e.g., architects, developers, policymakers, to better meet the needs of suburban apartment-dwellers.