Abstract

This study provides empirical data on the development of incremental housing in Indonesia. Although incremental housing has been recognized in the literature as a method for providing affordable housing for low-income residents, few studies have investigated the relationship between land ownership status and growth patterns of incremental development. This qualitative study focuses on Kampung Cikini, a high-density, deprived settlement in central Jakarta, Indonesia. The study concludes that de facto tenure security has a strong impact on incremental housing. Housing improvements are carried out in response to changes in the sociodemographic composition of families and the availability of funds. Although family members originally are the main source of funds, household members gradually take on this role. Although the majority of respondents undertake incremental housing improvements to accommodate domestic activities, economic activities gradually emerge as a reason for undertaking subsequent housing improvements. Due to financial insecurity, incremental housing expansions are often horizontal, as vertical expansions are more expensive and require additional land. These findings can contribute to the planning and design of incremental housing policies that can benefit low-income residents in Jakarta.