Domestic Buildings and the Use of Space: Al-Alkhalaf Fortified Houses — Saudi Arabia

This study of traditional houses in Al-Alkhalaf settlement in Asir (south-western region of Saudi Arabia) analyses the relationship between domestic space and the patterns in the settlement. The study illustrates the manner in which aspects of forms and arrangements of residential buildings were developed. The paper explains how these aspects are interconnected and how they help to elucidate, through their spatial relationship, certain cultural concerns related to inherited social norms and cultural values. The influence of Islamic religious teaching, economic activities, social structure and the philosophy of the culture of this region on house design is also explained.Perhaps nowhere is this more important than in modern day Saudi Arabia with its tensions between treasured cultural traditions, deeply-rooted religious values and the modern consumer-orientated society. Architects and planners have a rare opportunity to use their imaginations to the fullest in designing new dwelling units which meet the requirements of all three.