The Application of the Coleman-Model in Residential Environmental Research

Abstract

In the paper a possible theoretical approach of residential environmental research is out- lined. The paper also deals with the application of the resulted model in the case of concrete neighbourhoods. The model is based on the Coleman system behaviour model, which mphasizes the fact that the macro levei changes always happen with the "mediation" of the micro levet. The decisions brought on the micro levei under the conditions set on the macro levei add up on the aggregate levet again and produce a new structure in society and space.

The aim of the research the model is used in is to explain the differences in the trajectories of different residential areas of originally nearly the same age, architectural design and social composition in Budapest.

In the applied twinning residential environment dynamics model the classic Coleman- model is doubled. It is due to the necessity of combining the individual mobility and invest- ment mobility trends, that together give dynamism to the neighbourhoods and other larger or smaller scale spatial units of residential function.

Besides the general model a neighbourhood specific application of the model is presented on the rehabilitation process of Middle–Józsefváros, a classic downgrading area, where a few years ago a large scale renewal process was initiated.