1st Edition
Homes in High Flats Some of the Human Problems Involved in Multi-Storey Housing
Originally published in 1971, Homes in High Flats was written at a time when multi-storey flats were a popular solution to the world-wide need for mass housing because they could be produced with speed. However, the social implications of domestic housing in high flats were causing local authorities in Western Europe to reconsider their efficiency. Original research into this question forms the basis of this book which concentrates on Glasgow but gives attention to other examples both in Britain and abroad.
The text attempts to encompass all the social and practical aspects of life in high flats by studying tenants’ views on the physical character of the flats and estates, and by examining the success of tenants’ associations and extra-mural classes designed to develop community life. Practical problems are dealt with in chapters on facilities and services, families, children, the elderly and the case for investment in staff. The authors also compare multi-storey flats with other types of household and discuss the reasons for tenants’ movement out of the estate.
Perhaps the most eloquent social comment on the shortcomings of high flat life is expressed in the lyrics of the Jeely Piece Song which is included in the Appendix.
New Foreword to the Reissue John Goodwin. Foreword. Acknowledgements. Subject and Setting. Illustrations. Tables. 1. The Background of the Study 2. Housing Problems and High Flats in Glasgow 3. Method of the Study 4. General Information about the Housing Studied 5. Physical Character of the Flats: Tenants’ Views 6. Physical Character of the Estates: Tenants’ Views 7. The Services and Facilities at Three Estates 8. The Older Tenants 9. Families with Children 10. Other Types of Household 11. High Flats and Social Contacts 12. The Case for Investment in Staff 13. Conclusions. Appendices.
Biography
Pearl Jephcott (1900–1980) was based at the University of Glasgow at the time of original publication.
From the New Foreword: "It is Pearl Jephcott at her very best – imaginative, creative, lateral thinking in a way designed to document the reality of everyday life for ordinary people."
