Optimizing design thinking process for group housing through interaction design methods

This research paper investigates the optimization of the Design Thinking (DT) process for group housing projects by using Interaction Design (IxD) methods. Group housing design is increasingly complicated as it attempts to balance individual requirements, community behavior, and sustainability. Through the integration of Design Thinking principles—empathy, ideation, prototyping, and iteration. This article proposes a hybrid approach that combines Interaction Design (IxD) methods, including empathy mapping, interactive prototyping, and real-time feedback systems, to optimize DT's phases (empathize, ideate, prototype, test) in group housing. Through a series of case studies, the research shows how IxD's focus on dynamic user interactions and iterative co-design increases participatory outcomes. Key outcomes are a 30% increase in resident satisfaction with communal spaces, a 25% decrease in design iteration cycles, and enhanced conflict resolution in shared spaces through means such as behavioral analytics and VR-based spatial simulations. The framework not only closes gaps in DT's usage but also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing architects and interaction designers to co-create flexible, user-oriented living spaces. Practical considerations for large-scale housing solutions are debated, including limitations to cultural responsiveness and resources needed. Recommendations are provided to bring digital-physical feedback tools into policy and practice at the end of the study, which is a path for future work across different socio-spatial environments.