Examining the Potential Values of Vernacular Houses in the Asir Region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Most of the Saudi Arabian regions, in general and Asir in particular, are characterized by traditional settlements, which reflect the social and cultural values of vernacular communities. These communities and their traditional architecture defined, until recently, the nuclei of many cities and towns. The accelerating urban growth and lack of interest of the local population in their vernacular heritage have led to negligence and subsequently to the demolition and removal of many buildings of significant cultural value. As long as such practices persist, cities and towns risk the loss of their identity and cultural diversity. The purpose of this paper is to investigate potential values inherent in the vernacular housing stock of Asiri villages and to allow these structures to become an active part of the contemporary life of cities as well as a valuable heritage resource for future generations. Before deciding on the significance of preserving and safeguarding the vernacular housing stock of the Asiri highlands and the role it may play for present and future generations, it is necessary to have a thorough understanding and acknowledgement of the values emerging from it. Thus, the paper employs an expert appraisal approach through the utilization of a detailed architectural survey, analysis and subjective assessment of two traditional mud houses. The two houses typify the characteristics of Asiri mud architecture. A self-directed questionnaire with a group of local owners of such houses was conducted to investigate whether they see value in their vernacular heritage and whether or not they might be interested in reutilizing their traditional mud houses, which currently sit empty, for contemporary and future applications. This paper points to the significant potential of applying a value assessment as a tool to inform a sustainable conservation practice dependent upon the interplay of social, cultural and environmental values associated with the housing stock of Asir.

Architectural Values Behind the Formation of Heritage Houses as a Tool for Promoting Cultural Identity in Saudi Arabia

“…Alnaim also notes that common Najdi social beliefs and the role of women in society strongly influenced the hierarchical arrangement of urban spaces [24]. Samir et al also referred to the role of women in decorating the interior spaces in the Al-Asiri houses, where the walls are painted and sport decorative units (Al-Qatt Al-Asiri) [25].…”

“…Samir et al also mentioned that the local materials with which Asiri houses were built, such as mud and timber, helped to balance the fluctuations in summer and winter temperatures. Another important role is played by repeated rows of panels inserted into the walls, thereby protecting the external walls from rainwater [25]. Al-Qamadi et al mentioned that the color scheme of heritage houses in Najran reflects the local environment through the use of natural materials, such as clay, plaster, and wood [18].…”

Inward and Outward Opening Properties of One-Sided Windcatchers: Experimental and Analytical Evaluation

“…These studies suggested that energy consumption lowered through passive cooling strategies. Current approaches hope to utilize traditional techniques in their designs [18,35,36]. Many Saudi Arabian regions are born out of their heritage districts.…”

“…The cultural value of Saudi Arabian cities has faded due to urbanization and disinterested locals. Many traditional buildings are being demolished, threatening the loss of identity and diversity [35]. Other researchers [25,36,37] suggested adding passive architectural solutions in Jeddah by integrating traditional features to modern buildings and making old buildings more accessible through improving their thermal comfort.…”