Architectural Responses to Gender Roles: Exploring Privacy and Space Dynamics in Traditional Saudi Arabian Homes

Abstract The importance placed on women's privacy in Saudi Arabian society illustrates the critical role they play. Privacy and hospitality are highly valued in Arab culture, and these elements are maintained even in the most recent Saudi Arabian built environments. According to the study, one of the most important methods for allowing women to freely engage in their home environment is the distinct separation of male and female spaces that is common in Saudi homes. It goes on to look at how women's influence over their homes' privacy stems from society's deep respect for them. This is evident in the design of houses that accommodate women's in-home roles and patterns. Semi-structured interviews, site visits, observations, and space syntax analysis techniques are used to investigate various aspects related to Saudi women and home formation. The findings of the study emphasize the importance of understanding cultural values and gender roles in the home design process, as well as suggesting six strategies for balancing modernity and tradition in terms of functionality and livability. With this understanding, Saudi homes can be approached in a more inclusive and culturally sensitive manner, which is especially important as Saudi women become more involved in public life.