The syntax of the Qatari traditional house: privacy, gender segregation and hospitality constructing Qatar architectural identity

Abstract

Socio-cultural factors are amongst the most prominent forces that reshape the development of housing in Qatar when considering its vernacular architectural history. The research study uses space syntax analysis supported by other simulation and visualization techniques to examine the extent to which socio-cultural patterns influence the spatial form of traditional Qatari houses. The findings reveal that, despite changes in time and across eras, socio-cultural patterns, namely, (i) privacy, (ii) gender segregation, and (iii) hospitality, determine the spatial form of Qatari vernacular houses. Knowledge obtained from this research study contributes to the construction of architectural identity, auspicated to be referred to along the planned strategy for the urban regeneration of the built environment in Qatar (as envisioned through the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030).