Housing customization: envisioning an interface to support co-design processes

Purpose There are several studies showing that end-users' participation in the architectural design process of houses is critical to their satisfaction (e.g. Önder et al ., 2010; Ammar et al ., 2013). Housing that is not adjusted to inhabitants' needs leads to modification works (Davidson et al. , 2007) that could be avoided if their design was defined from the beginning with their participation. Digital technologies, such as 3D interactive visualization, benefit co-design processes by helping non-specialists better understand space and design possibilities (Salter et al. , 2009; Schroth et al. , 2006). However, the available literature shows that existing co-design digital tools were not developed based on potential users’ requirements. This paper aims to define the user requirements of a co-design tool for housing customization. Design/methodology/approach Interviews were conducted to gather information on how participatory processes occur in housing cooperatives and identify how potential users can collaborate in the design definition of their houses using a digital tool. Findings The interviews were analyzed, and requirements were defined. Originality/value This work contributes to the advancement of knowledge since the tool is defined based on requirements collected from potential end-users. By using a user-centered approach, the tool can contribute to more effective and informed collaboration.