Paradigms and styles : Saudi native architecture

Abstract EN

Saudi Arabia is a large country in size and contains extensive arid zones including the largest single desert of Rub-al-Khali or Empty Quarter in the South of the country.

Its important history dates back to 3000 BC.

Physical features, human aspects, culture, and traditions vary considerably among the several regions of the country.

All traditional architecture, urban or rural, in Arabia has the reflections of cultural, social, economic, and climatic features of the land.

Most or all building types, including dwelling design, presently being built follow western models of architecture.

It is recognized that their adaptation to prevailing climatic conditions and other Saudi characteristics is unsuccessful.

This paper highlights traditions and styles in native architecture in several regions of the country.

These regional styles are illustrated in dwelling design to explain how they ameliorate the local climate.

Knowledge of these traditional dwellings can be the basis of inspiration for more appropriate architecture in arid lands.