ANALYTICAL STUDY OF HERITAGE RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS IN THE CENTRAL REGION OF SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract

The architecture of any nation reflects the social and religious concepts of the citizens’ lifestyles, as well as the extent to which people in one nation are connected and influenced by other civilisations. The architectural style of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is not much different from that of the Arabian Peninsula. Saudi architecture has been designed with a consideration for natural factors, such as climate and the environment, and has also been influenced by the human environment, including social and economic factors. The general structure of the urban fabric appears random, in terms of form and layout, but this, in fact, corresponds to certain necessities forced by the local environment. This study aimed to identify the social and natural environmental characteristics of residential heritage buildings in the central region (Najd area) of the KSA. The factors that have affected these unique residential designs, which are based on adaptations to the natural environment, are highlighted. Based on the study, recommendations are made that can be applied in future architectural projects in the region.

Keywords

• heritage buildings
• natural environment
• architectural style
• urban fabric