Public Perception of Vernacular Architecture in the Arabian Peninsula: The Case of Rawshan

Abstract

This research extends Hasan Fathy’s (1986) principle of vernacular architecture by focusing on the Rawshan through an investigation of two criteria: aesthetics and energy efficiency. The paper discusses the views of both the Saudi public and key decision-makers on reviving vernacular architecture in the context of Saudi Arabia’s rapidly developing economy, characterized by relatively high rates of energy consumption and CO2 emissions. This research explores (a) the interaction in domestic buildings of Saudi occupants with their windows, and how these are perceived as an interface with the external environment; (b) awareness and knowledge of the use of shading elements (such as Rawshans) to reduce the use of artificial lighting while maintaining indoor privacy; (c) Saudi awareness of, and familiarity with, the Rawshan as a vernacular element and a secular architectural tradition; and (d) Saudi views on the revival of traditional architectural elements with a focus on the Rawshan. An online survey (n = 812) was conducted across Saudi Arabia complemented by interviews with expert decision-makers (n = 23) to (a) assess criteria such as privacy, aesthetics, daylight, ventilation, and energy consumption in Saudi residences and (b) investigate the level of acceptance of an optimized retrofitted Rawshan design.

Examining Mashrabiya’s Impact on Energy Efficiency and Cultural Aspects in Saudi Arabia

“…The significance of privacy has been further corroborated by a comprehensive study conducted by Alelwani et al [3], which indicated that a significant majority of participants, amounting to 61.15%, held the strong belief that privacy holds utmost importance, whereas only a negligible proportion of 1.23% expressed the view that privacy is not a crucial factor.…”

“…A 40% coverage of the glazing unit used the Mashrabiya pattern, and results showed that this could lower the cooling load by 23%. A survey by Alelwani et al [3] shows that 78% of the participants ranked aesthetics as the most critical factor, and for 58.48%, energy efficiency comes second to aesthetics.…”

“…To counteract the adverse impacts of such weather conditions, architects and building experts have put forward a plethora of passive design solutions that leverage indigenous materials and techniques [2]. Among them, one such innovative and historic sun-shading solution is the Mashrabiya, which was prevalent during the Middle Ages and persisted until the mid-20th century [3].…”

The Potential of Green Engineering Solutions for Energy Conservation in Residential Buildings Towards Sustainability: A Case Study of Saudi Arabia

“…An example of Mashrabiya in Saudi Arabia is illustrated in Figure 3 below. On the subject of the revival of vernacular architecture, the perspectives of influential figures and Saudi citizens were examined in a certain academic work by Alelwani et al [31]. Moreover, interviews, questionnaires, and observations served to ascertain the impact of decreasing artificial light usage in residential buildings exerted by knowledge and awareness of shading devices like Mashrabiyas.…”

“…Moreover, Makki, Mosly [35] determined the most important factors influencing individuals' willingness to embrace Renewable Energy Technologies (RET). The finding clustered all factors into a number of main elements, including cost, government legislations and strategies, community awareness, local market, environment, and On the subject of the revival of vernacular architecture, the perspectives of influential figures and Saudi citizens were examined in a certain academic work by Alelwani et al [31]. Moreover, interviews, questionnaires, and observations served to ascertain the impact of decreasing artificial light usage in residential buildings exerted by knowledge and awareness of shading devices like Mashrabiyas.…”