<span style="color: #000000; font-family: Tajawal; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 500; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: #ffffff; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;">The Journal of Architecture and Planning (JAP) published by King Saud University, provide an opportunity for scholars to publish their original works based on distinguished scientific research in the fields of Architecture and Building Science, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Urban and Regional Planning and related subjects. The journal publishes articles that contribute original research in the specialized fields. The articles discuss, analyze and conclude valuable results undertaken by faculty members, practicing professionals and graduate students, either locally or globally. The journal has international acceptance, and is one of the oldest in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Critical Success Factors for Residential Building Energy Retrofitting: The Case of Saudi Arabian Residential Buildings Industry
Improving the energy efficiency of residential buildings has become a strategic priority in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), where the housing sector accounts for a significant share of national energy consumption. Retrofitting existing residential buildings offers a practical, cost-effective pathway to meeting energy conservation targets and advancing the sustainability objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. However, project success depends on the effective identification and management of critical success factors (CSFs) that influence planning and implementation. This study identifies, analyzes, and ranks the key CSFs affecting residential energy retrofits in the Saudi context by integrating academic and industry perspectives. A systematic literature review identified potential CSFs, followed by Social Network Analysis (SNA) to examine their interrelationships and relative importance within scholarly discourse. Subsequently, a structured questionnaire was administered to Saudi industry practitioners to empirically assess the significance of these factors. The findings reveal both alignment and divergence between theoretical and practical perspectives. Design integration, technical expertise, and regulatory compliance emerged as the most influential CSFs, while practitioners placed less emphasis on financial incentives and cultural acceptance. The study provides evidence-based insights to support policymakers and construction professionals in improving residential retrofit practices in Saudi Arabia.
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Computational Pedagogies and Hybrid Frameworks: A Sustainable Model for Digital Transformation in Architectural Studios
Over time, architectural studios have become dynamic environments that continue to evolve based on technology integration, and continuous progress has been made in digital literacy in architecture education. The use of advanced technological tools and software, including simulations, coding, and visual programming, in the design studio demands systematic, organized interventions. To fulfill this gap, this work uses both literature and quantitative data generated using a detailed quantitative questionnaire with faculty and students engaged in conventional studios in Pakistan. This research provides a strategic implementation plan for incorporating CAAD and digital culture into architectural studios, particularly addressing the challenges and barriers inherent in the conventional methodological setup. The research outcome shows that studios in Pakistan face several prominent challenges and limitations related to technological integration, including infrastructure, resistance to adoption, contextual inheritance, and digital literacy gaps. This study will help resolve challenges faced by academia in underdeveloped countries lacking technological expertise and support smooth transitions to technologies that can’t be ignored.
Assessing the Built Heritage Preservation Strategies in Najran: An Analytical Study from Local Professionals' Point of View
Najran has a rich heritage. As resources are needed to diversify the Kingdom's income, heritage could play a role by encouraging tourism and economic activity. To leverage it, heritage sites need to be developed. Considering Najran's heritage, this research aimed and developing them. Applying a methodology that used a questionnaire and SPSS for statistical analysis, the responses of 31 local specialists identified the appropriate procedures to preserve Najran's heritage. "Establishing expert bodies to develop heritage sites", "conduct studies to assess the sites' values", and "restoring the heritage sites" emerged as the required measures with 80.6% of the sample responses. It also emerged that community involvement is needed. In this regard, and to plan for development, “establishing public-private bodies”, “involving universities”, and “involving residents" were named the top required strategies, respectively. Based on the findings, a plan to ensure sustainable development was proposed. The findings and the plan represent this research's scientific contribution. The plan's measures included: establishing a planning body for heritage management, building specialized knowledge, creating the legal and administrative frameworks, drawing preservation plans, designing awareness and marketing plans, and conducting reviews of the plan. These procedures represent measures to achieve Vision 2030 objectives.
Assessing Walkability on Arterial Commercial Streets in Riyadh Using the Global Walkability Index (GWI): A Case Study of Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia) and Olaya Street
This study addresses a local research gap in Saudi Arabia, where most “humanization” initiatives and scholarship emphasize residential neighborhoods rather than arterial commercial streets. It evaluates walkability along two major Riyadh corridors—Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia) and Olaya Street—both of which serve as movement corridors and destinations. A structured questionnaire derived from walkability and complete-streets literature was translated into ten indicators (Q1–Q10) plus an expected economic-impact indicator (ECON), supported by demographic/behavioral variables and open-ended questions. A total of 160 responses were collected (80 per corridor). The statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics, including descriptive statistics, between-group comparisons using the Mann–Whitney U test, categorical distribution assessment via the Chi-square test, and correlation analysis using Spearman’s rank correlation. The results indicate that Tahlia performs significantly better in traffic safety, sidewalk quality, crossing ease, and overall walkability. No significant differences were found for shade/thermal comfort or cycling/scooter suitability, indicating shared structural constraints. Correlation analysis identifies shade/thermal comfort, micromobility suitability, and public-transport integration as the strongest predictors of overall walkability. The study concludes with measurable recommendations: treat shade as a performance requirement, enforce a functional sidewalk cross-section, implement pedestrian-priority intersection packages, introduce phased micromobility measures, strengthen transit access spines, and apply node-based interventions for Olaya versus a destination-street approach for Tahlia.
Commuting Challenges in a Mega-Center: A Case Study of Mobility in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), Riyadh
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia at the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, has transformed rapidly over recent decades from a small Najd oasis settlement into a metropolis of more than eight million residents organized around a polycentric urban structure. Central to this transformation are major hubs such as the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), one of the Kingdom's densest and most advanced developments. However, rapid urban sprawl and continued reliance on private vehicles have generated severe traffic pressures and connectivity challenges between urban cores and peripheral areas. Despite its transit-oriented vision and major metro interchange, KAFD experiences daily congestion and mobility bottlenecks that affect employees and visitors alike. This study examines commuting patterns and congestion perceptions at KAFD, focusing on the structural relationship between concentrated employment in the center and dispersed residential locations across the Riyadh metropolitan area. Using a descriptive-analytical case study approach, the research is based on a structured survey of 51 employees and employs descriptive statistics and correlation analysis to assess travel behavior, parking management, shuttle performance, pedestrian quality, and metro integration. The findings reveal a polarized mobility experience: while 64.7% of respondents expressed high satisfaction with the pedestrian environment, 35.3% reported heavy congestion when exiting KAFD, and 33.3% experienced excessive exit delays. Strong correlations between congestion, long exit times, poor parking coordination, and ineffective management (r up to 0.75) indicate that congestion is not merely a capacity problem but a systemic outcome of employment centralization and peripheral residential dispersion. Furthermore, the strong negative relationship between shuttle efficiency and congestion (r = –0.65) underscores the role of last-mile systems in alleviating pressure. The study contributes theoretically by reframing mobility justice through a center–periphery lens and, practically, by proposing a three-layer conceptual framework linking spatial structure, operational management, and user experience to guide future Riyadh mega-projects, such as New Murabba and Expo 2030.
Evaluating and Enhancing the Directionality of Natural Pedestrian Movement in Outdoor Urban Spaces: An Applied Study of El Oued City
The spatial configuration of cities plays a central role in shaping movement patterns and human behaviors. It transcends purely physical dimensions, becoming a key determinant of both individual and collective mobility decisions. Within the theoretical framework that links spatial configuration to human behavior, the Space Syntax methodology was adopted as a quantitative analytical tool to explore this relationship and its impact on natural pedestrian movement. This study aims to assess the directionality of natural pedestrian movement in the city of El Oued through angular segment analysis using Depthmap10 software. Two main syntactic measures were applied in their normalized forms (NACH and NAIN): Angular Choice and Angular Integration, with analyses conducted at both the global (Rn) and local (R400) scales. The findings provide an initial-stage assessment of the city’s spatial structure and natural pedestrian movement potential, offering a predictive framework and objective criteria for identifying locations with the highest likelihood of movement, thereby facilitating and standardizing future field observations. The findings indicate that the city’s movement network exhibits pronounced spatial hierarchy, with the strongest potentials for movement and directionality concentrated along a limited number of central axes characterized by high NACH values. This concentration results in an unbalanced and inefficient movement structure that restricts the even distribution of pedestrian flow. However, the local-scale analysis revealed that certain neighborhoods can generate internal connectivity and effective directional movement within their limited spatial scope. These findings underscore the need to reconsider the current distribution of movement directionality and highlight the importance of strengthening local network connectivity to reduce excessive dependence on central routes. The study provides a quantitative analytical framework for evaluating and proposing enhancements to future urban design, contributing to the development of a more walkable and spatially balanced city.
Energy–Environmental Evaluation of Alternative Concrete Composites Paired with Bio-Based Insulations: A Dynamic Simulation Study for the Elderly Residences
The construction sector plays a critical role in achieving global sustainability targets, particularly by developing and applying innovative building materials that reduce environmental burdens. This study investigates the energy and environmental performance of sustainable concrete-based materials compared to conventional, less sustainable alternatives. A total of 27 different structural concretes (including variants incorporating natural fibers, recycled aggregates, and phase change materials) were combined with four bio-based insulation options (cork, flax, hemp, and reeds) to generate 108 external wall scenarios. These alternatives were evaluated using the IES-VE simulation software on a prototypical healthcare facility. Annual energy consumption and associated CO₂ emissions were quantified and compared across all scenarios. To ensure robustness of the findings, complementary statistical analyses were performed. Regression results confirmed a strong linear correlation between building energy demand and CO₂ emissions, indicating that improvements in thermal efficiency directly translate into environmental gains. Sensitivity analysis revealed performance variations exceeding 15% in energy savings and approximately 8% in emissions mitigation between the most and least effective wall scenarios, highlighting the decisive influence of material selection. Distributional assessments using histograms and boxplots further highlighted the clustering of high-performing sustainable solutions, while outliers were dominated by metallic and magnetite-based concretes. Results demonstrate that sustainable concretes, particularly those integrating natural fibers and recycled aggregates, significantly enhance thermal performance and contribute to substantial reductions in both energy demand and carbon footprint when paired with low-conductivity natural insulation. In contrast, conventional high-density concretes and metal-based composites exhibited higher energy use and emissions.
The Impact of Argumentation on the Development of Islamic Urban Jurisprudence
This research explores the impact of argumentation as a communicative approach on the development of Islamic urban jurisprudence. It presents the relationship between argumentation and Islamic urban jurisprudence, identifies its sources, and examines their role in shaping it. It examines the disputed argumentation-related issues, clarifying their ranks and domains and highlighting the primary active parties involved. The study discusses the impact of disputes among residents in regulating urban development rules and rationalizing architectural practices, and reviews the causes of these disputes, the tools for resolving them, and their outcomes, as well as the influence of residents’ argumentation on shaping urban rights, developing social norms, and promoting higher values in architectural behavior. Finally, the research highlights the role of juristic argumentation in innovating an exceptional model for juristic reasoning, advancing architectural patterns and urban forms, and establishing legislation aligned with the objectives of Islamic law. The study adopts a critical-analytical and hermeneutic approach to examine classical texts of Islamic urban jurisprudence, employing qualitative tools such as the analysis of historical documents, anuscripts, fatwas, and urban legal cases (nawāzil). Core sources include Kitāb al-Jidār by Ibn al-Imām, al-Iʿlān bi-Aḥkām al-Bunyān by Ibn al-Rāmī, and Riyāḍ al-Qāsimīn by al-Adirnawī. The research explores how discursive argumentation (ḥijāǧ) shaped the principles of urban regulation and architectural ethics, fostering a maqāṣid-oriented framework that reconciles authenticity with innovation. The findings reveal that argumentation served as a civilizational mechanism for generating creative architectural and legal solutions that safeguarded rights, reduced harm, and supported an integrated urban system balancing ethical, aesthetic, and human dimensions.
Developing the Urban Square Integrated Quality Index (USIQI): Evaluating Sustainability, Social Cohesion, and Placemaking in Public Squares of Cairo, Egypt
Public squares play a critical role in shaping the social, cultural, and environmental performance of contemporary cities. However, many public squares in Cairo continue to suffer from limited shading, limited inclusivity, reduced diversity of activities, and environmental stress. To address these challenges, this study develops the Urban Square Integrated Quality Index (USIQI), an exploratory composite tool designed to evaluate public squares through three interrelated dimensions: sustainability, social cohesion, and placemaking. The USIQI is constructed using a structured set of indicators derived from an extended literature review, organized into measurable environmental and socio-spatial components. The index is applied to three contrasting public squares in Cairo—Tahrir (symbolic-civic), Ramses (transport-functional), and Nahda (academic-cultural). Indicators were normalized to a 0–100 scale and weighted through an Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to enable consistent comparison. The results reveal that Tahrir Square performs strongest due to recent redevelopment efforts and enhanced identity, followed by Nahda Square with moderate social and functional performance, while Ramses Square exhibits the weakest outcomes because of its transport-dominated configuration. These findings demonstrate the value of the USIQI as an early-stage assessment tool that can identify performance gaps and inform design and policy decisions. The study contributes a structured, transferable framework that supports the holistic evaluation of public squares in Cairo and provides a foundation for future empirical validation and index refinement.
Reassessing Makkah's Pre-Modern Urban Fabric: A Critical Analysis Through Ibn Khaldun Lens
This paper critically re-evaluates the existing scholarship on the pre-modern urban development of Makkah, arguing that the scholarly reliance on descriptive historiography, travelogues, and potentially biased Orientalist interpretations offers an insufficient understanding of the city's complex socio-spatial formation. To address this limitation, the study proposes a novel analytical framework grounded in the intellectual legacy of Ibn Khaldun. By emphasizing critical source evaluation and integrating historical and sociological perspectives, this framework enables a more nuanced examination of the intricate interplay between religious significance, social organization, cultural practices, and geographical constraints in shaping Makkah's distinctive urban fabric. Through a critical assessment of the existing literature and an application of the Ibn Khaldunian lens to historical accounts and archival evidence, this research aims to provide a deeper understanding of the forces that governed Makkah's pre-modern urban evolution. This approach offers significant implications for contemporary urban planning and development in Makkah, advocating for a holistic methodology that respects the city's profound historical and cultural context.
Entrance to Heritage: Examining the Artistic, Symbolic, and Socio-Cultural Significance of the Najdi Door in Central Saudi Arabia.
This study explores the artistry and cultural importance of Najdi doors in central Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s ‘heartland’, focusing on their symbolic, aesthetic, and communal values. By analyzing the symbolic connotations, materials used, and social meanings associated with these doors, the study aims to highlight their cultural significance. By delving into the door backgrounds, artistic designs, and social relevance, the study emphasizes their role as representations of the cultural identity and status of those living behind them, as well as stores of communal heritage. The multi-dimensional research methodology incorporates studies, visual analysis, interviews, and surveys to develop a thorough understanding of Najdi Doors' complexities and richness as an art form. This approach allows a deeper exploration of these doors' aesthetic and symbolic aspects. It provides insights into how the community perceives them and the motivations behind their creation. Through this methodology, the research connects the doors’ craftsmanship with their relevance in modern contexts by presenting a new perspective on this cultural heritage. The results show that Najdi doors express identity, tradition, and artistry, reflecting the region's heritage and people's bond with their surroundings. The designs used in these doors, along with their materials and symbolic meanings, significantly contribute to Saudi Arabia's cultural story by emphasizing the importance of preserving these elements as a crucial link to history. The study's findings indicate uses for modern architectural approaches and emphasize the importance of maintaining historical links between the past and present. This investigation adds value to discussions on traditional Saudi architecture and heritage while emphasizing how crucial preservation is to safeguard cultural identity during fast-paced modernization.
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Towards Environmentally Sustainable Educational Spaces in Semi-Desert Areas: Visions from Schools in New Cairo City
The study examines the extent to which school building designs in Egypt, particularly in the semi-desert climate of New Cairo, align with environmental sustainability standards. In response to rapid population growth and rising demand for educational buildings, many school buildings continue to prioritize cost efficiency and basic functionality while overlooking essential sustainability considerations, such as energy performance, building orientation, and indoor environmental quality. Adopting a multi-method research approach. The initial analytical phase involved a review of both local standards, issued by the (GAEB) and the (CHPS), with a focus on core physical comfort factors: temperature, ventilation, and lighting. While other factors have been identified, but are considered less influential, outside the scope of the study, and more suitable for specialized studies. The pilot phase involved field documentation of selected school models, which, although not intended to be fully representative, serve to illustrate instances where environmental sustainability considerations were overlooked despite the availability of space. The comparative phase that utilized software tools to assess environmental performance, and then offered targeted passive design strategies to address identified gaps. Findings terms of energy efficiency, indoor comfort, and resource management. The study highlights the urgent need to embed environmental sustainability in national school design policies, emphasizing its role in reducing operational costs, enhancing occupant comfort, and improving educational outcomes. It offers original, context-specific insights and practical recommendations to support resilient, energy-efficient, and pedagogically effective educational environments in Egypt.
Utilizing User-Centered Design Approaches to Enhance the Design of Private Outdoor Living Spaces: Case Study of Taif City
This study critically examines the application of user-centered design (UCD) as a methodological framework for enhancing the design of outdoor living spaces within residential buildings, with a particular emphasis on optimizing user quality and well-being. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, outlining strategies for the effective implementation of the UCD Approach in the context of outdoor living spaces. This framework is employed to investigate the challenges associated with applying UCD in residential housing within the city of Taif, and proposes potential solutions, drawing upon established global standards. The objective is to develop context-specific, practical criteria that can be implemented within the local housing context of Taif. The study applies the UCD Approach to the design of outdoor living spaces, resulting in a model that guides designers in improving these spaces. This model aims to enhance the functionality of outdoor areas while more effectively meeting the diverse needs and preferences of residents. The research concludes with several key recommendations, notably the adoption of user-centered design as the foundational principle for the development of outdoor living spaces. This approach is essential not only for addressing human needs but also for fostering a deeper connection between residents and their natural environment.
Exploration of the Tangible and Intangible Aspects Affecting Students’ Learning in the Architectural Studios: A Case Study of Lahore, Pakistan.
With the continuous advancements in architecture, design education requires ongoing reforms to bridge the gap between academia and practice. In addition, artificial intelligence (AI) in architectural education transforms traditional teaching strategies by providing data-driven and immersive learning opportunities. This study intends to explore the teaching practices in Lahore's undergraduate architectural design studios and offers a framework for learning that incorporates the requirements of both learners and teachers. This study utilized a mixed-method approach to examine contemporary teaching practices and the challenges teachers and students encounter. The findings suggest that current pedagogical approaches lack a comprehensive understanding of the needs of both, making it challenging to create an optimal setting for learning. As a result of these findings, this study proposes a learning framework that includes tangible and intangible factors influencing the learning experience, such as the physical environment, teaching methodology, and learning techniques, to ensure their foundations are strong. The study's findings contribute to the existing knowledge on architectural pedagogy and provide practical recommendations for improving the undergraduate design studio experience for both students and teachers.
From Vision to Viability: Tackling the Form-Value-Function Dilemma in Early Architectural Conceptualization
This paper presents an organized methodology for concept development and testing that enhances the early stages of architectural conceptualization. Traditional challenges in the design process often stem from the difficulty of evaluating concepts early, leading to costly revisions. This research proposes a systematic approach integrating concept-based and evidence-based design methodologies to address these challenges. The developed framework emphasizes a comprehensive matrix of influencing factors, ensuring innovative yet viable design solutions that balance creativity with functionality and sustainability. This approach reduces design risks and enriches architectural education by merging conceptual creativity with evidence-based evaluation, fostering reflective and critical thinking. Furthermore, the methodology encourages architects and students to think inclusively and creatively while balancing functional and sustainable aspects. It also promotes awareness of how the concept will evolve at the early stages, highlighting potential challenges that might need to be solved, and helps to evaluate and balance the worth of those compromises. Empirical validation through real-world case studies and quantitative data demonstrates improved design outcomes and educational benefits.
Evaluating Thermal Comfort and the Influence of Passive Design Strategies in Free-Running Local Dwellings of Wadi Hadramout, Yemen.
In least developed countries such as Yemen, severe power shortages limit the use of air conditioning for maintaining indoor thermal comfort. In Hadramout province, located in the east of Yemen, climate-responsive adobe dwellings are gradually being replaced by modern buildings that disregard local climate conditions and rely entirely on mechanical ventilation to achieve thermal comfort, particularly during the summer. This paper compares the thermal performance of adobe, concrete, and stone dwellings in Wadi Hadramout during summer using on-site measurements and computer simulations. Additionally, the paper explores the potential impact of passive design strategies on improving indoor thermal comfort in the aforementioned houses. The results indicate that the internal operative temperature is lower and more stable throughout the day in the adobe house compared to the concrete and stone houses. Furthermore, it was found that certain passive design strategies significantly enhance the thermal performance of the tested houses.
The Concept of Housing Quality Among Saudi Householdsin Single-Family Dwellings in Riyadh
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 has launched several programs to achieve its strategic objectives, including the Quality-of-Life Program to enhance various aspects of well-being, including the built environment. The Housing Program was also introduced to meet the growing housing demand, increase homeownership among citizens, and ensure high-quality residential areas. This study explores the concept of housing quality from the perspective of Saudi households, a fundamental step in identifying the key factors and elements that contribute to achieving this quality. This understanding serves as a crucial foundation for developing criteria and guidelines for housing projects that align with Vision 2030’s goals. A field survey was conducted using a questionnaire targeting households in single-family dwellings in Riyadh. The questionnaire comprised five sections: housing characteristics, satisfaction levels, preferences, occupancy density, and demographic attributes. The results revealed that 73.1% of households are satisfied with their residential environment, with homeowners reporting higher satisfaction due to stability and larger spaces. The study also highlights households' design preferences for dwellings and residential areas. recommends establishing clear design criteria to enhance housing quality and support Vision 2030’s goal of providing suitable housing that meets the aspirations of Saudi society.
Multi-Criteria analysis of wind power station distribution along the Red Sea Coast of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia using GIS (1985-2017)
The strategic placement of wind power stations is scientifically critical for exploiting their full capacity. This research aims to compare the spatial characteristics of wind speed across four city sites at the Red Sea coast in Saudi Arabia. These cities are Al-Wajh, Yanbu, Jeddah and Jazan, all of which have operational wind power stations that serve as our case study. Data from 1985 to 2017 were analysed, focusing on diurnal and seasonal mean values of average wind speed, maxi-mum wind speed and prevailing wind direction. These data were sourced from meteorological sta-tions located in the aforementioned cities. We employed geographical information systems tech-niques to evaluate and suggest optimal locations for potential wind power stations. These tools were integrated with statistical methods to analyse the climatic data, which further served the objectives of the study. The database for this study was built upon 14 layers, each layer determining which areas were suitable or unsuitable for wind power station placement. Amongst the examined cities, Jeddah had the largest suitable area, measuring approximately 13826.8 km2. Conversely, Jizan had the smallest suitable area, spanning just approximately 738.7 km2
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Adopting Augmented Reality to Enhance Vernacular Building Preservation and Tourism: Case Study in Matbouli House Museum, Al-Balad
This paper investigates the use of Augmented Reality (AR) in a vernacular building, namely the Matbouli house. The paper studies the potential of vernacular buildings as a tourism source, with a particular focus on the role of AR in preserving historic buildings. A qualitative approach is utilized, which includes a literature review, the documentation of the built and cultural heritage of Matbouli house, and designing an AR app. The app highlights the house’s tangible and intangible cultural features. This study seeks to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with vernacular tourism and the integration of technology in preservation pursuits. The findings show that AR apps are becoming increasingly easy to develop and, although costly, they have the potential to reduce renovation costs in the future. Moreover, using AR applications is strongly preferred and tourists are enthusiastic about the engaging, inclusive and memorable experiences they offer. Additionally, AR technology presents a viable way to improve cultural tourism and preservation by bridging the gap between conventional heritage interpretations and modern tourist expectations. Stakeholders are recommended to leverage AR to generate creative and sustainable experiences that draw tourists, spur economic growth, and aid in preserving cultural heritage.
The Effect of Different Built Environments on Walking Behavior Among Women in Riyadh
This paper aims to comprehensively examine how the characteristics and perceptions of various built environments influence the walking experiences of women in open public spaces within Riyadh. The study identifies various urban walking settings and investigates the multifaceted barriers and motivations that impact women’s walking behavior in these environments. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research integrates observational analyses conducted across four walking sites and semi-structured interviews with participants to gather rich qualitative data. The findings suggest that specific attributes influencing women’s walking experiences are closely related to the built environment, including factors such as ease of accessibility and the existence of essential amenities. Furthermore, the research highlights that those social and cultural factors, such as the presence of other women in these public spaces, significantly affect women’s willingness to engage in walking activities. Overall, the results highlight the considerable progress still needed to establish a pedestrian environment that is both comfortable and inclusive, ultimately contributing to the humanization of urban spaces in Riyadh. The study adds to the existing body of knowledge on urban walking behavior among women and emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments that encourage active participation in public spaces.
Method for Determining Fire Risks at Urban and Building Scale onHospital Facades
Facade fires pose risks to life and property safety for building users. This study aims to analyze the fire risks on hospital facades that pose a danger to the structure. Within the scope of the study, fire risk analyzes were carried out on the facades of four small-scale hospitals located in the Nilüfer district of Bursa, Turkey. In the study, a checklist was created within the scope of the (BYKHY) and an on-site current situation analysis and fire regulation compliance analysis were carried out. Based on this, fire risk analysis was carried out in the context of the facades of the buildings in question using the L-type Matrix Method, which is one of the quantitative methods. In the L-type matrix method, the probability of risks occurring and the severity of the consequences that may occur when they occur are graded between 1 and 5. Accordingly, 4 risk groups were identified as a result of the fire risk analysis conducted in the context of hospital facades with the L-type Matrix method. As a result of these headings, 11 possible risks were identified. The possible causes, degree and severity of these risks were studied. It is suggested that the main results be introduced.
Urban Transformation and its Impact on the Quality of Life in Riyadh: Reviewing the Progress Toward the Global City Rankings
Managing growth in Riyadh after the city's rapid expansion is a significant issue in its development that needs to be discussed. The study aims to assess the impact of the urban development of Riyadh on the quality of life. A cross-sectional study design was adopted to determine the impact on the quality of life in the four domains of physical health, environment, psychological health, and social relationships using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire). The study recruited 217 participants. However, data related to urban transformation in Riyadh has been qualitatively collected using secondary data. The study's findings revealed that urban transformation was significantly and positively correlated with the quality of life. The study reviews that the overall infrastructure under Vision 2030 is according to the global standards of development and recognition, which will increase the likelihood of Saudi cities to get global recognition.
Cultural Landscape Preservation in the Context of Urban Sustainability
The study explores the intersection of cultural landscape Architecture preservation and urban sustainability, highlighting the significance of integrating cultural and natural dimensions within urban development frameworks. By surveying 200 members of the cultural landscape preservation associations, the research captures diverse perspectives on the importance, challenges, and alignment of preservation efforts with urban sustainability goals. Findings recognise the critical role of cultural landscapes in shaping urban identity and fostering community cohesion, yet also reveal challenges such as limited public awareness and conflicting development needs. The study emphasizes the need for cohesive frameworks, enhanced policy support, and strong stakeholder partnerships to advance preservation efforts. Future strategies should focus on public engagement through educational initiatives and collaborative projects, underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Ultimately, the research advocates for adaptable frameworks and empirical evaluations to effectively integrate cultural landscape Architecture preservation within urban sustainability, thereby enriching urban environments for future generations.
Fusion and Transformation: The 1950s Architectural Metamorphosis of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
This study explores the transformation of Riyadh’s architectural landscape in the 1950s, a pivotal decade for Saudi Arabia marked by rapid urbanization and cultural integration. As the nation's newfound oil wealth catalyzed its metamorphosis, Riyadh emerged as a canvas displaying a unique blend of traditional Islamic heritage and modernist architectural influences. The research focuses on analyzing key buildings' exterior façades and architectural configurations from this era, highlighting the integration of new construction materials and methods alongside traditional design elements. Through in-depth analysis of selected case studies, including prominent government buildings and residential structures, the study reveals a nuanced fusion of international modernist styles with local and Islamic architectural elements. This synthesis reflects the societal and cultural shifts occurring in Saudi Arabia during the 1950s, as the country grappled with its identity amidst global influences. The findings of this research contribute to understanding the complex interplay between tradition and modernity in Saudi Arabia’s architectural evolution. They illuminate how architectural trends of the 1950s in Riyadh were not merely aesthetic choices but were deeply intertwined with the socio-cultural and economic dynamics of the time. The study underscores the importance of contextualizing architectural developments within their broader historical and cultural settings and offers insights into the ongoing dialogue between past and future in Saudi Arabia's urban landscape.
Navigating Safety and Urban Challenges: A Study of Children's Pedestrian Experiences in Jeddah's School Zones
This study examines the factors influencing children's walkability in the automobile-centric city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, highlighting the urgent need for pedestrian-friendly infrastructures around school zones. Our objectives were threefold: to conduct an exhaustive literature review identifying critical walkability factors; to administer a survey throughout Jeddah's school complexes; and to assess children's walkability via street audits, GIS analysis, and pedestrian flow dynamics evaluation. Our findings underscore the imperative for enhancements in school zones, particularly in the areas of crossing facilities, street signage, and speed control measures. We advocate for the augmentation of shaded green spaces within an 800-meter radius of schools to foster a cooler, more inviting walking environment for children. The study also points to the significance of parking space design in managing vehicle overflow effectively and suggests prioritizing uninterrupted sidewalks and minimized intersections to elevate pedestrian safety. Conclusively, our research offers essential insights for urban planners and policymakers, who are aiming to create a safer, more walkable environment for children in cities heavily dependent on automobiles, like Jeddah.
The Impact of Urban Growth on Heat Island Changes in the City of Al-Khobar, Eastern Saudi Arabia From 2002 to 2022 Using Remote Sensing Images
The research focuses on knowing the relationship between urban growth and its impact on the surface temperature of the land, as rapid urban growth results in the emergence of several challenges. Therefore, the study aims to extract the area of ​​urban growth and the surface temperature for the years 2002 - 2013 and 2022 in the city of Khobar and, after that, monitor the relationship between them. The study followed the spatial and quantitative analysis approach, relying on the Landsat 8-5 satellite images and the Sentinel-2. The methodology includes applying the Normalized Differences Built Index (NDBI), also applying the steps to extract the surface temperature of the land and then using the Pearson correlation coefficient to find the relationship between the area of ​​urban expansion in square kilometers and the average surface temperature. The results showed that the ​​built-up areas have been extended from 2002 to 2022 outside the city center, until the vacant lands in the southwestern part of the city receded. The average temperatures for the study years were extracted. It was found that the relationship between the area of ​​urban expansion in square kilometers and the average temperature is a strong inverse relationship of 0.977 - which is a statistically significant value of 0.01, referring that urban expansion in some areas has a positive effect, as the larger the area of the urban regions, the lower the temperature.
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The Impact of a Pedestrian-Oriented Environment on the Street Humanization in Riyadh City
Urban design elements associated with streets are integral to the concept of humanization, primarily due to their direct role in facilitating and promoting walking behaviours within neighbourhoods. Walkability serves as a key indicator of streets' effectiveness in meeting human needs. This study investigates the influence of urban elements that encourage walking on the degree of humanization in residential neighbourhoods in Riyadh. Adopting a descriptive-analytical approach, the study examines and analyses residential neighbourhood layouts through Geographic Information System (GIS) software, focusing on block lengths and intersection densities as objective physical indicators of humanization. A standardized urban unit, comprising (Mafruka and the streets connected to it), was defined across neighbourhoods to facilitate comparative analysis regarding the availability and quality of street design elements. Additionally, residents’ satisfaction and perceptions regarding walking as a mode of active transportation were surveyed, with subjective emotional indicators gathered through a structured questionnaire. The study sample consisted of a random selection of 400 residents across the five sectors of Riyadh. Findings from the study highlight the need for a comprehensive development plan aimed at encouraging and enhancing pedestrian activity to reinforce the human-centred dimension within Riyadh's residential neighbourhoods.
Quality of Life Indicators from an Architectural Perspective: A Case Study in Medina
In pursuit of enhancing quality of life within societies, nations focus on the significance of residential life as a primary influencer of human well-being. Numerous organizations and research initiatives have developed methodologies to assess quality of life within urban environments, resulting in adaptable mechanisms suitable for diverse community data. This research explores the feasibility of harnessing these tools to assess the quality of life influenced by residences from an architectural perspective. The city of Medina was chosen as the spatial scope for the sample selection, resulting in 379 responses. This study revealed that the primary factor for comparison between residences was the type of dwelling, with the majority being apartments and villas. The mechanism demonstrated that residents of villas expressed higher satisfaction across all the assessment criteria. The study also revealed that among the nine aspects of improving housing selected by the respondents, the top three included the presence of a private outdoor area, increased natural lighting, and providing larger space. Based on these findings, this study recommends adopting a mechanism to analyze housing quality within a specific spatial context to study the current housing situation, set goals for designers, and provide recommendations for quality-of-life improvement.
FLEXIBILITY CONCEPT in HOUSING DESIGN within the FRAMEWORK of SOCIO-CULTURAL VALUES: TAG VILLA PROJECT in SAUDI ARABIA
The housing in Saudi Arabia lost flexibility concept that had existed in vernacular Saudi housing together with the introduction of foreign building types. In this context, several projects were executed in Saudi Arabia afterwards that aimed to provide flexible design in Saudi housing. A recent project; TAG Villa (2022) is one of these contemporary projects where flexible design is aimed to be provided considering socio-cultural structure of Saudi Arabian society. In this study, the flexible design practices implemented in TAG Villa and their realization levels according to Raeyd M. Al-Dakheel's flexibility classification that he determined considering the socio-cultural values of Saudi Arabia, are examined. The main aim of this study is to express at what rate the flexible sides of traditional Saudi housing design are adaptable to contemporary housing design and evaluate the instructive aspects of the socio-cultural values of Saudi Arabian society for achieving flexible design. Accordingly, the architectural drawings of TAG Villa are analyzed and an interview with the architect of TAG Villa project is conducted. The findings of the study express that the methods implemented in this project for achieving flexibility have many instructive sides for other studies aiming to achieve flexibility considering socio-cultural values.
Greenery Impact on Physiological Equivalent Temperature for Pedestrians in Residential Zones in Hot and Arid Climates
The study of street geometry has gained significant attention in recent years, with researchers investigating the effects of design factors on pedestrian thermal comfort in hot and arid climates. This research investigates how introducing vegetation to pedestrian path design influences thermal comfort on a street section in residential neighborhoods in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The case studies explore location-specific investigations to understand pedestrian path design scenarios with variations of vegetation and their placement while focusing on their impact on outdoor thermal comfort, furthermore, using Envi-met 5.6.1 to analyze and compare existing case studies and offer optimized outdoor samples supporting thermal conditions. By examining the influence of vegetation on outdoor thermal comfort, identifying environmental parameters that affect thermal comfort, and comparing their impact on physiological equivalent temperature (PET) recommendations to improve pedestrians' physical health and impact their well-being. This study emphasizes the significance of vegetation in shaping pedestrians' outdoor thermal comfort in hot and arid climates, with design factors such as type, height, width, and distance. Understanding these factors and their crucial roles in determining thermal conditions and their immediate impact on pedestrian thermal comfort can inform urban design strategies aimed at enhancing pedestrian comfort and promoting sustainable and livable urban environments.