Current needs for low-cost urban housing in Malaysia have spurred massive construction and development of residential areas. With the urgency to execute
government promises in the electoral campaign, the development of low-cost urban housing is being seen to provide for communities with needs for shelter and social well-being. Low-cost housing is a dwelling where the total housing costs are affordable to those low-income groups earning below 200 US dollars a month comprising of a family with two or three children respectively. It is also a housing development carry heavy subsidization from the government or from the private sectors. The objectives of this paper are to investigate the design and use of spaces for low-cost high-rise urban housing, particularly in Kuala Lumpur.