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Showing posts with label Research. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Research. Show all posts
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Global and Local Competency Requirements for Architects
Global and Local Competency Requirements for Architects: The
Case of Kuwait
Dr. Yasser Mahgoub
Abstract
Globalization facilitates
opportunities for architects to work in a worldwide business environment. Architects
are increasingly finding work opportunities in countries different than their
own. Developing countries are seeking the expertise of architects and engineers
from developed countries. This has been evident in the Gulf countries since the
middle of the 20th century, when they witnessed rapid growth and
development on the hands of many foreign engineers and architects. While, there
is a enduring need to benefit from global expertise in all disciplines., there
is also a need to adhere to local cultural needs and understandings. The aim of
this paper is to identify both global and local requirements for the
development of competency evaluation system for architects. The paper surveyed
examples of competency requirements for architects’ competency in different countries.
Using the case of Kuwait
as a vehicle for discussion, this paper proposes a model for identifying global
and local requirements for the development of an objective evaluation system
for architects. These requirements should be covered in education, experience,
examination and continuing education. The paper concluded that, an objective
evaluation system of architectural competency should recognize both local and
global requirements as essential for a meaningful professional conduct.
Keywords: architecture;
professional competency, global, local, Kuwait
Introduction
Globalization facilitates
opportunities for architects to work in a worldwide business environment.
Developing countries are seeking the expertise of architects and engineers from
developed countries to improve the living conditions of their citizens. This
has been evident in the Gulf countries since the middle of the 20th century,
when they witnessed rapid growth and development on the hands of many foreign
engineers and architects. There is a continuous need to benefit from global
engineering expertise from all around the world while adhering to local
cultural needs and understandings.
The aim of this paper is to
identify both global and local requirements for the development of an objective
evaluation system for architects’ competency to work in other countries. The
questions paused by this paper are: what constitutes competency requirements
for work in another culture? what do we need to learn globally and locally?
Method
The paper surveyed competency
requirements for architects in different countries. A comparative analysis of
these requirements revealed the essential elements to be included in an
evaluation system for architects. Using the case of Kuwait as a vehicle for discussion,
this paper proposes a comprehensive model for identifying global and local
requirements for the development of an objective evaluation system for
architecture.
Globalization and Architectural Practice
The phenomenon of
globalization is itself global, that is to say, all-encompassing. It is of
course in the first instance a material or economic phenomenon, but, like all
significant civilizational developments, it also has profound cultural or
spiritual significance (Madison, 1998, p.5).
Discussions of globalization are
currently dominating the intellectual and public discourse. While some view it
as an evil trend towards dehumanization and economic domination others view it
as a multifaceted phenomenon that pauses challenges and offers new
opportunities. The architecture profession realized the impact of globalization
on its practitioners. For example, the American Institute of Architects
recognizes that:
We have actively entered into the
era of the global market. The economies of the world are interdependent.
Architects in the United States
today have domestic projects with international clients, domestic projects have
international investors and financing, and more and more architects, large and
small, are exporting their expertise and undertaking new international
projects. Work in the international market offers new opportunities to
diversify markets and seek new venues for the talents and experience of the U.S. architect.
With the new opportunities come new challenges in the areas of cultural
understanding, business practices, technical knowledge, and professional
standards. (AIA, 1998, p. 3)
The business environment for
architecture is changing worldwide. The expertise of international consultants
are being sought all over the world and they in turn seek work in other
countries. Rich and poor, developed and developing countries are exchanging
benefits from international cooperation. Developing countries are benefiting
from the expertise of developed countries while developed countries are finding
work opportunities in developing countries. This condition of physical and
virtual movement created increasing cultural contact and interaction. It
magnified differences and commonalities between cultures and created conditions
of fear of cultural homogenization and loss of identity.
This condition is considered by
many researchers as a repetitive phenomenon in the history of mankind.
Throughout history many civilizations attempted to spread their ways of living
and achievements to other cultures either by force or by choice. “The ancient
Romans established the first example of global architectural hegemony,
spreading their ideas across the empire. Rome
didn't completely suppress indigenous architectural practices of the provinces,
but Roman classicism nevertheless was the empire's ubiquitous architectural
theme, one that is still popular today.” (Lewis, 2002)
In architecture, the impact of
globalization is being compared to the impact of the international style of the
1930’s when many architects designed buildings all over the world, i.e. Le Corbusier
in India, Kahn in Bangladesh, Foster in Japan, Wright in Japan, Utzon in
Australia, etc. “The International Style was based on systematization and
standardization, mass production, economies of scale, functional logic and
aesthetic composition devoid of both ornament and sentiment. Given a similar
functional program, the design of a building in southern Asia could be similar
to one in South America . For several decades
after World War II, International Style thinking greatly influenced the design
of office buildings, schools, hospitals, laboratories and multifamily housing.”
(Lewis, 2002)
As for the engineering and
architectural professional practice, globalization has created a challenge of
interaction and working in other cultures and the exchange of knowledge,
materials, systems and expertise. Professional competence is becoming an
important issue since all countries are interested in guarantying the
competency of engineers working in their countries. Methods of competency
evaluation are being developed to insure the quality of engineers working in
the country. Continuing engineering education is also an important element to
insure that engineers and architects are always up to date regarding the
continuously changing knowledge and information in their fields of
specializations. The dissemination of information through telecommunication and
internet is creating an opportunity for professionals to stay up to date with
any advances and developments in all areas of technology, materials, systems,
etc.
The Union of
International Architects
The UIA established the
Professional Practice Commission and approved its program in 1994. The
Commission has devoted nine years of intensive study and debate in development
of the "UIA Accord on Recommended International Standards of
Professionalism in Architectural Practice" (UIA Accord, 1999) and nine
related Accord policy guidelines. The Accord contains a statement of principles
of professionalism and a series of 16 policy issues in a format of definitions
and background statements followed by policy statements. These documents were
presented to the triennial UIA Congress and Assembly in Beijing , China
As stated in the accord, the UIA
interest in establishing recommended standards of professionalism grows out of
the increasing globalization of architectural practice in part because of the
influence of the Uruguay Round of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade
(GATT). The GATT agreements established the World Trade Organization and the
General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS). The GATS agreement approaches the
progressive liberalization of trade in services through the elimination of
restrictions to trade rather than through deregulation. The Council for Trade
in Services established by GATS is charged to develop measures relating to
qualification requirements and procedures, technical standards, and licensing
requirements based on objective and transparent criteria that do not in
themselves constitute barriers to trade in services. International standards of
relevant international organizations are to be taken into account in judging
conformity to this obligation.
While architecture shapes the
physical environment, it also creates the cultural heritage of a society and
thus cannot be regarded as a simple commercial commodity. Architects are
responsible for advocating the fair and sustainable development and the
cultural expression of society's habitat in terms of space, forms and
historical context. They must also serve the interest of public health, safety,
and welfare. (UIA Accord, 1999)
The Accord is an advisory
document that is the result of the cooperative endeavor of the international
community of architects to objectively establish standards and practices that
will best serve community interests, define what is considered best practice
for the profession, and express the standards to which the profession aspires.
The European Community
In August 1985, for the first
time, a group of countries came together to set down the fundamental knowledge
and abilities of an architect (Directive 85/384/EEC of the Commission of the
European Communities, 1985). These include: ability to create architectural
designs that satisfy both aesthetic and technical requirements, and which aim
to be environmentally sustainable; adequate knowledge of the history and
theories of architecture and related arts, technologies, and human sciences;
knowledge of the fine arts as an influence on the quality of architectural
design; adequate knowledge of urban design, planning, and the skills involved
in the planning process; understanding of the relationship between people and
buildings and between buildings and their environments, and of the need to
relate buildings and the spaces between them to human needs and scale; an
adequate knowledge of the means of achieving environmentally sustainable
design; understanding of the profession of architecture and the role of
architects in society, in particular in preparing briefs that account for
social factors; understanding of the methods of investigation and preparation
of the brief for a design project; understanding of the structural design,
construction, and engineering problems associated with building design;
adequate knowledge of physical problems and technologies and of the function of
buildings so as to provide them with internal conditions of comfort and
protection against climate; necessary design skills to meet building users’
requirements within the constraints imposed by cost factors and building
regulations; adequate knowledge of the industries, organizations, regulations,
and procedures involved in translating design concepts into buildings and
integrating plans into overall planning; and adequate knowledge of project
financing, project management, and cost control.
The American Institute of Architects
The American Institute of Architects International
Committee Professional Interest Area
1. General: Political/Social, Geographic, Infrastructure,
Economic/Business.
2. Cultural: Cultural Assumptions, Social and Business
Customs, Establishment of Business Relationships, Cultural Aspects of Business
and Legal Issues
3. General Business: Legal System, General Business
Regulations, Taxes
4. Architectural Practice: Professional Practice, Standard
of Care, Copyright, Methodologies, Procedures, and Processes, Scope of
Architectural Services, Owner/Architect Contract Issues, Permit Processes
5. Construction: Methodologies, Procedures, and Processes,
Code Enforcement.
The
Case of Kuwait
Architectural Professional Practice in Kuwait
Professional practice of
architecture in Kuwait
is a recent phenomenon that is a reflection of the development of architecture
in the country. Kuwait
is located on the northern corner of the Gulf and occupies an area of 17,818
square kilometers. It was a vernacular settlement overlooking the Arabian Gulf and composed of courtyard houses built using
mud brick along narrow alleys. The city was surrounded by protective walls with
several gates. The discovery of oil during the 20th century and the rapid
modernization produced by its wealth attracted global economic trends towards
it. Kuwait
went through a rapid process of modernization and cultural change started by
its first planning in 1950.
After the discovery of oil in
economic quantities during the 1930s and its exportation during the 1940s and
the immediate wealth generated by its sales, the rulers of the country
appointed the British firm, Monoprio, Spencely and Macfarlene in 1950 to
propose a plan for the development of the city of Kuwait . There were not many native architects nor workers to handle this massive
amount of work. Many architects and construction workers were brought from
different parts of the world. They were asked to design and construct all new
buildings and projects needed at that time.
The fact that most of the public buildings in Kuwait USA , and the establishment of the Department of
Architecture at Kuwait University and the graduation of its first group of
students in 2002, the landscape of the practice of architecture in Kuwait
The Professional Engineer Classification System
Kuwait Society of Engineers is
the only formal association representing engineers and architects in Kuwait . It was
established in 20 November, 1962.
In 1996 the Kuwait Society of Engineers initiated the
process of developing a formal evaluation process for engineers and architects
wishing to practice the profession in the country. The goals were, first, to
identify the engineers based on professional experience and competence and,
second, to upgrade the engineering profession by encouraging engineers to
obtain professional license through continuing learning and research.
(Al-Jassar, 2000) This process is of great importance especially that more than
2/3 of the engineers in Kuwait
are coming from foreign countries. See Figure 1 for comparison between number
of Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti engineers currently practicing engineering in Kuwait .
The standards for the
professional engineer in the field of architecture was based on the
“Recommended Guidelines for the UIA Accord: On Recommended International
Standards of Professionalism in Architectural Practice, Policy on
Registration/Licensing/Certification of the Practice of Architecture” (UIA
Accord, 1999, p. 2) which states that:
Registration/licensing/certification
is the official legal recognition of an individual's qualification allowing her
or him to practice as an independent architect, associated with regulations
preventing unqualified persons from performing certain functions. Given the
public interest in a high-quality, sustainable built environment and the
dangers and consequences associated with the construction industry, it is
important that architectural services are provided by properly qualified
professionals in order to provide adequate protection for the public.
The Regulations for the Classification
of Engineers was adopted by Kuwait Society of Engineers in June 2002 (KSE,
2002, pp. 5-6). It classifies the engineers as follows:
1. An Engineer: is a candidate holding a Bachelor in
Engineering or architecture from a recognized university. .
2. A Professional Engineer is a candidate that passes the
required examinations and satisfies one of the following requirements:
a. Four years of documented practical experience after
graduation.
b. A Masters or Doctoral degree in
Engineering followed by at least one year of documented professional
experience.
3. A Consultant Engineer is a candidate that
passes an interview with the special committee and satisfies one of the
following criteria:
a. A Professional Engineer with fifteen years
of documented professional experience after graduation.
b. A Professional Engineer holding a Masters
degree in Engineering and ten years of documented professional experience after
the degree.
c. A Professional Engineer holding a Doctoral
degree in Engineering and five years of documented professional experience
after the degree.
During the
preparation of the Professional Engineer classification requirements it was
suggested by the author that continuing education should be considered a
required component along with experience and examination to complete the 3E’s
approach but the suggestion was not adopted by the committee at that time.
The Professional Engineer
Examination in the field of Architecture
The
establishment of Professional Examination in the field of Architecture in Kuwait was a
major step towards evaluating the competency of architects practicing in the
country. The exam is similar in format and content to the Architect
Registration Examination (ARE) offered by the National Council of Architectural
Registration Boards (NCARB) in the USA . The first part currently
offered is composed of the following sections: 1) pre-design and programming,
2) professional practice and ethics, 3) general structure and lateral force, 4)
materials and building systems, 5) construction documents and services, 6)
local building regulations, and 7) practical experience.
The format
of the first part questions is multiple choice questions. Besides text books
and references, the questions are compiled from several sources including: governmental
agencies, academic institutions, private offices, and practicing architects. A
second part will be offered in the future and will include other sections
related to design problems such as: building and space planning, site analysis
and planning, and building technology.
In order
to prepare the candidates for the examination, Kuwait Society of Engineers in
association with the Office of Consultations and Career Development of the
College of Engineering and Petroleum at Kuwait University offer a continuing
education course that introduces the candidate to the purpose and nature of the
exam and covers important topics related to the situation of Kuwait.
A Model for Objective Evaluation of Competence for Architects
The model
proposed by this paper recognizes that the basic elements of architectural
competency are: Education, Experience, and Examination. It emphasizes the need
to understand global and local requirements for evaluating competency of
architects to work in other cultures. Global Requirements include; the ability
to work and communicate effectively with professionals in different parts of
the world and understand global trends and conditions that affect the
professional practice. Awareness of global advances in science and technology
in different parts of the world is a basic requirement. Local Requirements
include; the ability to interact and cooperate locally with other architects
consultants, understand specific local culture and social requirements, and the
application of local building codes and regulations. Figure 2 illustrates the
model proposed by his paper.
Continuing
education has an important role in enabling professionals to be up to date
regarding recent advances in architectural research, construction technology,
leadership and management skills; new technical skills; design methods, and
materials. Through different types of continuing education in architecture;
conferences, workshops, symposia, short courses, public lectures, enrichment
programs, and noteworthy events, professional should be able to acquire
important knowledge and expertise in both local and global issues.
Conclusions
Globalization
pauses new challenges to the architectural profession. It facilitates
architectural professional practice to cross national borders and countries.
Architectural education should recognize this challenge and develop its
curriculum to educate architects to work globally. Global and local requirements
should be realized in courses and curriculum development. An international
board for accreditation of architectural programs should be established to
ensure the quality of education of architectural programs. An international
architectural competency examination should be established with two main
components: first, international competency component and, second, a local
competency component. Continuing education has an important role in developing
the breadth and depth of the body of knowledge that the profession depends on.
Information and communication technology is instrumental in achieving this
goal. This paper proposed a model for developing a competency in the
architecture profession. The model recognizes the basic elements of
architecture competency; education, experience, and examination and put
emphasis on continuing education as an instrumental tool to realize global and
local requirements.
References
1)
American Institute of Architects
(1998) International Practice Checklist, Second Edition 1998, International
Committee Professional Interest Area, The American Institute
of Architects , Washington , DC
2)
Al-Jassar, A. and
Al-Dakhel, A. (2000) The Development of a Classification System for the Gulf
Professional Engineer, The 5th Gulf Engineers Convention. Oman . 18-20
February, 2000.
3)
Commission of the European
Communities (1985) Directive 85/384/EEC of the Commission of the European
Communities.
4)
Kuwait
Society of Engineers (2002) Engineers Classification System in Gulf Countries:
The State of Kuwait .
Approved by the Administrative Council of KSE meeting 8/2002, 3/6/2002.
5)
Lewis, R. (2002) Will
Forces of Globalization Overwhelm Traditional Local Architecture?, Washington Post,
November 2, 2002.
6)
Madison McMaster University
7)
Union
of International Architects (1999) Recommended International Standards of
Professionalism in Architectural Practice Accord. Adopted June, 1999.
Globalization and Architectural Practice - العولمة وممارسة المهنة
Globalization and Architectural Practice in Kuwait: A cyclical challenge
Introduction
Globalization is
a controversial word that is currently dominating the intellectual and public
discourse. While some view it as an evil trend towards dehumanization and
economic domination others view it as a multifaceted phenomenon that poses
challenges and offers new opportunities. Globalization is viewed by the first
group as a new form of colonialism and occupation promoting cultural and social
superiority and domination. Economic superiority allowing 2/3 of the world
wealth to go to only 1/3 of the world population while 1/3 of the world wealth
is gong to 2/3 of the world population increasing the gap between poor and rich
countries. Many fear the loss of identity and privacy; in general, fear the
unknown. The other group points to the advantages of globalization and argue
that superiority and domination worries are exaggerated and that there is no
threat to sacred beliefs. They predict that more human rights and democracy
penetrating the traditional boundaries of countries and that the individual
will gain new rights outside his or her own country. It is also viewed by many
as a new phenomenon that is taking place as a product of information and
communication revolution. As Madison (1998) put it:
Like it or not, globalization is fact (a fact-in-the-making); it is
irrelevant whether one "approves" or "disapproves" of it.
The phenomenon of globalization is itself global, that is to say,
all-encompassing. It is of course in the first instance a material or economic
phenomenon, but, like all significant civilizational developments, it also has
profound cultural or spiritual significance.
This paper
supports the view that globalizations is just another cycle in the cyclical
changes of history and illustrates, using the case of Kuwait, that some parts
of the world have experienced the impact of global changes since the middle of
the 20th century. This impact resulted a dramatic transformation of
culture and the built environment and created responses, insecurities and
resistance similar to what we observe developing in other parts of the world
today. Lessons derived from these conditions could improve our understanding of
the challenges and opportunities that globalization pauses to us and be able o
respond meaningfully. As Dandekar (1998) put it,” for architects and urban
planners, the various impacts of the generic phenomenon termed “globalization”
on the three dimensional built form of city real estate promise to be crucial
in determining how, and in what arenas, their professions will play a role in
the next century.”
A View of Cyclical History
The view of
history as a series of cyclical changes is not a new one. In his book “AL-Muqaddimah”, the 14th
century Arab historian Ibn Khaldoun recognized the cyclical, rather than linear
view of historical process. For Ibn Khaldun, history is a constantly changing
cycle that repeats itself in different forms and paste (Ibn Khaldoon, 1969). Held
et al argue that the globalization of culture has a long history and that the
formation and expansion of the great world religions are one of the best
examples of the capacity of ideas and beliefs to cross great distances with
decisive social impacts (Held et al, 1999). In architecture, the spread of
built forms and styles, embodying cultural ways of living, is basic lesson
derived from the study of the history of architecture. The only difference
between historical precedents and today’s conditions is magnitude and speed.
This paper views
the current relationship among architecture, architectural education, and
professional practice, as just another cycle in the cyclical challenges paused
by globalization. It investigates the case of Kuwait as a historical precedent
that architectural schools and the profession can build upon to structure a
response to what appears to be unprecedented changes in the scope and nature of
architectural production. It traces the development of architectural profession
and education in Kuwait during the second half of the twentieth century and
analyzes the impact of global trends and changes on the development of
architecture as product and process.
A Definition of Globalization
A useful
definition of architecture is provided by Held et al (1999). They view globalization as a process or set of
processes rather than a singular condition. They state that:
Globalization can be conceived as a process (or set of processes)
which embodies a transformation in the spatial organization of social relations
and transactions, expressed in transcontinental or interregional flows and
networks of activity, interaction and power. … Globalization, in short, can be thought of as
the widening, intensifying, speeding up, and growing impact of world-wide
interconnectedness.
This definition of globalization
allows us to focus on globalization as a process and avoid falling in the trap
of looking only at the products. They also recognize that globalization ha distinctive
historical forms and that by comparing and contrasting these changing
historical forms, it is possible to identify more precisely what is novel about
the present epoch. In sum, they focus on globalization as a process more than a
single product and suggest that in order to explore the extent and depth of
global interconnectedness a number of indicators of interconnectedness can be
used. They argue that “construction of indicators creates an opportunity for
gathering empirical data on global and regional flows, as well as on a state's
enmeshment in processes, networks and flows at both the global and regional
level. Indicators can be developed in respect of the key areas of state
activity and the degree to which individual states are embedded or implicated
in global or regional networks of interaction” (Held et al, 1999).
Globalization and Architecture
Madison (1998) identifies the
phenomenon of globalization as having five main aspects; economic, political,
technological, social and cultural. The impact of globalization on architecture
can be understood in relation to the aspects of globalization:
- The
global marketplace liberated professional services and labour, building
materials and construction methods, trade and investment from the limitations
of national boundaries. It allowed the free flow of materials and services
across borders and boundaries.
- The
impact of global politics on everyday life is apparent. Political events in one
country affect other countries almost instantaneously. On the positive side, the
rise of human rights awareness pointed to issues of the right to housing;
housing of marginalized populations, and housing for the poor.
- Telecommunication
and information technology has produced a need for a new type of technological
infrastructure, building types and design requirements. The electronic
technology produced new breed of intelligent and smart buildings. The impact of
the internet on architectural practice is evident in new trend of international
firms to establish branches in different parts of the world utilizing the time
difference to keep their business running 24 hours a day. For example, the easy
transfer of drawings and documents aided in the globalization of architectural
offices and projects is speeding the production and development of projects. Transportation
technology affected urban and city planning theories and produced changes in
understanding space and proximity. Building technology suggested new methods of
construction and materials that require new methods of expression.
- The
traditional living/work habits that resulted in the separation between work and
home during the 20th century, are giving way to new and revived
forms of home-work environment and mixed use planning that existed centuries
ago.
- Relationships
between groups and individuals are influenced by ease of interaction and
communication over the internet, permitting "virtual" social
interaction with people all over the globe. The Internet offers information and
knowledge about other societies that used to take long time to disseminate. The
lifestyle of fast food chains, luxurious shopping centres, and other
commodities is available all over the world today. The culture of the
"global village" disregarded cultural differences and increased
similarities in lifestyles around the world through these "icons" of
globalization.
This paper
utilizes the case of Kuwait to illustrate that impact of globalization
experienced by countries all over the world is a recurring phenomenon. It was
experienced by countries of the Gulf region during their sudden transformation
from traditional to modern societies during the second half of the 20th
century. There are important lessons to be learnt from these experiences to allow
us to better understand the current conditions in other parts of the world.
The Case of Kuwait
Countries of the
Gulf region are going through another phase of their rapid development that started
during the second half of the twentieth century. Before the discovery of oil, they
were isolated from most global influences due to the harsh natural environment,
undesirable living conditions and absence of natural resources. The British Empire
was only interested in this part of the world to secure their trading routes
with India. The discovery of oil during the 20th century and the rapid
modernization produced by its wealth and attracted global interest to the
region. The new world came rapidly and ready-made to the countries of the Gulf
region during the second half of the 20th Century. They did not have
a chance to gradually transform from traditional to modern societies.
The city-state
of Kuwait is located on the northern corner of the Gulf and occupy an area of
17,818 square kilometers. Until the middle of the 20th century it
was only a small fishing village by the Gulf cost. It has emerged as one of the
richest and culturally significant cities in the area and went through rapid
modern transformation and development that took place during the second half of
the 20th century. (See Figure 1)
The old city of
Kuwait was surrounded by a mud wall to provide defense from foreign attacks. The
traditional seaports called al nigaa were located along the gulf cost
receiving goods from India, Africa and other parts of the world. Fishing, pearl
catching and trading were the main activities for Kuwaitis. Lack of water
resources did not allow any agricultural activities to take place in what is
considered the hottest inhabited spot on Earth.
Courtyard houses
along narrow alleys created quarters for living for extended families and
relatives. (See Figure 2) The houses were built of mud brick and sea rocks. The
roofs were made of imported wooden rafters called basjeel covered with
layers of mud. The courtyard provided privacy for family members, especially
women, during their everyday activities. It also provided shade during the hot
summer days and protected sleeping place at night. The thick mud walls provided adequate insulation
and wind catchers, called badjeers, provided relatively cool air inside
the house.
After the discovery of oil in
economic quantities during the 1930s and its exportation during the 1940s and
the immediate wealth generated by its sales, the rulers of the country
appointed the British firm, Monoprio, Spencely and Macfarlene, to propose a
“plan” for the development of the city of Kuwait. The matters which the
consultants regarded as being of “primary importance” in the re-planning of the
town were: (a) the provision of a modern road system appropriate to the traffic
conditions in Kuwait, (b) the location of suitable zones for public buildings,
industry, commerce, schools, and other purposes, (c) the choice of zones for
new houses and other buildings needed in residential areas, both inside and
outside the town wall, (d) the selection of sites for parks, sports ground,
school playing fields and other open spaces, (c) the creation of a beautiful
and dignified town centre, (f) the planting of trees and shrubs along the principal
roads and at other important points in the town, and (g) the provision of
improved main roads linking Kuwait with the adjoining towns and villages
(Monoprio, Spencely and Macfarlene, 1951).
The planning of
the new city of Kuwait called for the demolition of the old wall and the
traditional houses and buildings within it to allow the construction of the new
central business district. Only a few historic monuments have been preserved in
Kuwait as modernization continued to take its toll on the old urban environment
and historic buildings. A few mosques have been saved from demolition, and many
have been replaced with new structures, reflecting the rapid changes in the
recent history of the state (Kultermann, 1999, p.167).
Planning for the
automobile required the construction of a grid of modern highways surrounding western
style neighborhoods. The neighborhoods were self sufficient entities with
schools, shops, mosques and other services. As Gardiner (1983, p. 46) states,
“there was no need to come into the city except for work because every thing
was there”. As part of the government’s policy for the distribution of wealth,
low income families were given public houses built by the government while rich
families were compensated with plots of land and money for their demolished
houses and acquired land. Building regulations proposed by the plan allowed for
the construction of individual “villas” on these plots of land.
Use of modern
construction methods and materials was applied in all new development plans. The
introduction of new building materials and construction systems accelerated the
speed of transformation. ”The use of traditional local materials and
techniques, which are often considered archaic and obsolete, was abandoned in
favor of modern imported material and construction techniques” (Khattab, 2001,
p. 57). Use of reinforced concrete replaced the traditional mud bricks and
stone construction techniques. This trend has developed to include; glass,
wood, accessories, air-conditioning systems, and all other types of
state-of-the-art finishing and construction materials and systems. Figure 3
illustrates examples of modern buildings in Kuwait using new modern
construction materials and technology.
Building codes and regulations were
introduced to control the construction of new houses and buildings. They
followed the model that was common at that time in England and other countries.
The impact of building codes and regulations on the production of built
environment is taken for granted as part of the process of building design and
construction. Yet, the origin and development of building regulations deserves
attention due to their impact on the built and natural environment. No formal
building regulations existed before the implementation of the new planning of Kuwait
in 1952. Construction of houses and other public buildings followed the
vernacular tradition of building houses according to acceptable socio-cultural
norms. Houses were produced following the vernacular tradition of master
builders. The master builder, called al-ustaz, knew the typical image of
the house to be built and the regulations that it should follow. The
introduction of the first complete building regulations in 1985 specified the
regulations and specifications for the construction of private housing. It
included the following sections: building area, setbacks, heights, room areas,
staircases, projections, light wells, pergolas, annexes, and basement
regulations. These building codes were the reason for the introduction of the modern
villa as a replacement for the traditional courtyard house.
There were not many local or native architects or workers to handle this
massive amount of work. Many architects and construction workers were brought
from different parts of the world. They were asked to design and construct all
new buildings and projects needed at that time. The fact that most of the public buildings in Kuwait
were designed by foreign architects and firms was a result of absence of
qualified local architects and firms that could handle projects of this size.
With the emergence of Kuwaiti architects, educated mainly in Western cultures
and the USA, and the establishment of the Department of Architecture at Kuwait
University, and the graduation of its first group of students in 2002, the
landscape of the practice of architecture in Kuwait is expected to change
dramatically.
Analysis: Aspects of Globalization in the case of Kuwait
As stated by
Chris Abel, "looking at Kuala Lumpur or Singapore today, it is easy to
conclude that the forces of a globalized consumer culture have all but
won." (Abel, 1994) He identified the visual attributes of familiar Western
models as:
- The Central Business District
- The air-conditioned office towers
- The McDonald's franchises
- The shopping centers selling the same
consumer products
- The jam-packed highways spreading out into
the suburbs, and
- The suburbs themselves, with their
'Dallas'-inspired mixture of neo-classical and Spanish-style villas
In the case of
Kuwait, there was a sudden break from past traditional built environment
followed by a rapid, almost instantaneous, transformation to modern built
environment. This situation created a collage architecture and absence of
coherence between adjacent buildings in the urban environment. Once the complex
coherence was eroded, each building could speak, or rather shout, for itself. According to Davey, "collage culture is of
course not limited to the Middle East, but its effects have been particularly
obvious in cultures and economies which have become prosperous rapidly" (Davey 1998).
Saba George Shiber (1964) noted that:
The Arab World has been literally “hit” by
Western machine civilization. In less than two decades a large sector of the
Arab mode of life has changed from an agrarian life to a sophisticated or
pseudo-sophisticated urban life. Perhaps the rate of change has been too
meteoric that the Arab architect was unable to comprehend fully the
connotations of the change.
In his keynote
address to the First International Conference on Architecture and Design in
Kuwait , the first Kuwaiti architect Hamed Shuaib reiterated the question paused
by many conferences and seminars held in the Gulf area: “when will we, in
Kuwait and other Gulf countries, have modern architecture suitable for our
community, environment and heritage?” (Shuaib, 1999) He criticized the fact
that architecture in Kuwait is being produced by architects from different
parts of the world. He argued that Kuwaiti architecture has passed through three
distinctive phases since the end of the 1950’s until the end of the 20th
century. He focused on the private house as the true reflector of the Kuwaiti
citizen view of life and needs. The first phase was a mixture of houses built
according to the traditional Kuwaiti house; a courtyard house closed from the
outside and open to the inside area called alhoush, and some modern
western villas. The second phase during the sixties and seventies was marked by
the introduction of the modern villa in the form of Mediterranean architecture
found in Egypt, Syria and Lebanon, where the architects of theses villas came
from. The Kuwaitis were inspired by the cultural development of these Arab
Mediterranean countries, where they used to spend their summer vacations. Those
villas were designed using strange shapes and forms which did not reflect the
type of life that existed behind them. The third phase encompasses the eighties
and the nineties where an interest in revival of Kuwaiti traditional
architecture has evolved. Several trials are made to develop contemporary
architecture with identity and style. Figure 4 illustrates the development of
architectural styles in Kuwait during the second half of the 20th
century.
The work of
foreign architects should be viewed as negative attempts only. There are important
lesson to be learnt from their projects whether they attempt to incorporate local
identity in them or not. For example, the Parliament Building by Jorn Utzon
illustrates a utilization of a modern material - reinforced concrete - to bring
back the strong image of the tent as place for gathering and communion. The
ultra-modern shopping centre, Souk Sharq, brings back the image of the
traditional market place environment with its planning and traditional wind
catchers. The Arab Organizations Headquarters building provides an example of a
“luxurious” localization of building technology and automated systems that are
restrained by the introduction of traditional and Arab architectural elements
and forms. The state of the art Scientific Centre, hosting one of the best
aquariums in the world, is another example of incorporating modern functions
with local expression. The building hosts sophisticated technologies within
spaces and forms derived from Arab and Islamic architecture; solid walls from
the outside with the broken axis and a modern tent structure covering the
entrance. A few other examples illustrate attempts to integrate local images
and understandings with global trends and practices. Most of the buildings
adhere to globalization forces without reflecting the local context and
requirements. Figure 5 illustrates examples of public buildings in Kuwait
designed by foreign architects.
The forces of
globalization were most evident in the case of Kuwait during the Second Gulf
War when the country continued to exist economically and politically as a “virtual
country” outside its physical borders and was brought back to existence due to
a global intervention by the world community. This dramatic experience of
invasion, occupation, and liberation for a brief period of time awakened the
Kuwaitis sense of belonging and identity. As described by Khattab (2001, p.
56), "particularly in the case of Kuwait, reasserting the local identity
has lately become a matter of great importance especially after Iraq's claims
in Kuwait and the Second Gulf War". This was reflected on the architecture
being produced during the 1990s in Kuwait by local Kuwaiti architects in their
attempts to recognize and acknowledge the heritage of traditional Kuwaiti
architecture.
The work of the
Kuwaiti architect Saleh Al Mutawa cannot be passed unnoticed in the urban
landscape of Kuwait. He attempts to localize his architecture practice by
reinterpreting some local architectural elements in a contemporary language of
three-dimensional forms (Al-Mutawa, 1994).
Figure 6 illustrates examples of his work where he utilizes elements of
Kuwaiti traditional architecture in his buildings. Several researchers have
reviewed his work and concluded that “one can define positive and negative
aspects (but) what is undeniable is that Al-Mutawa's work has resulted in an
emerging style” (Khattab, 2001, p.66; see also Goodwin, 1997).
Other young
Kuwaiti architects are alluding to the absence of identity in architecture and
the need to develop a Kuwaiti identity in the built environment. A documentary
movie produced by Kuwait Television titled “Kuwaiti Architecture: A Lost
Identity” depicts the development of architecture in Kuwait and points to the
importance of developing a Kuwaiti identity in architecture.
This search for
identity in architecture is a constant dilemma in the countries of the Gulf
area, as well as many other Arab countries. It is a reflection of the feeling
of loss of identity in other aspects of life. While admiration of
state-of-the-art glass-box office buildings and classic style villa, even that
they are not appropriate for the climate and culture, represent a desire to
accept the influence of globalization. Other examples illustrate, with varying
degrees, attempts to incorporate local identity in the design of houses and
buildings. The efforts range from copying and pasting elements and forms from
indigenous architecture to sophisticated designs that incorporate
state-of-the-art technologies with local expressions. As Al-Hathloul put it,
"the problem is that of a present physical environment in the Arab-Muslim
city is totally different from the traditional one. As a result of this
difference, a sense of discontinuity and alienation has developed among the
inhabitants of these cities. This sense of alienation has been voiced by many
writers in the field of Muslim cities and Islamic
Architecture"(Al-Hathloul 1981).
In summary, the
impact of globalization on architecture in the case of Kuwait went through the
following stages:
1.
The stage of the introduction of
new ideas and forms of life. During this stage rapid changes and
transformations took place with enormous speed. The country was eager to
utilize the wealth produced by the discovery of oil to improve the living
conditions of its citizens.
2.
The stage of uncritical, unconditional
acceptance of modern planning and architectural design ideas. They were assumed
to be not related to social and cultural aspects of life. There was no clear
understanding of the impact of these changes on the social relationships and
cultural values.
3.
The stage of expressed insecurities
and feelings of alienation and loss of identity. During this stage expressions
of unease and uncomfortable feelings with the surrounding environment due to
its clash with social and cultural needs. For example, the new built
environment violated family privacy because building regulations mandated the
establishment of setbacks between houses but the resulted distance was not
satisfactory to provide enough privacy between neighboring houses.
4.
The stage of struggle, resistance and
confrontation expressed in the use of traditional forms to express local
identity. During this stage serious attempts are made to express identity in
the built environment.
Conclusions
This paper
argued that the impact of globalization is not a new one and that it is an
updated version of cyclical challenges in relationship among education,
territorial development, and professional practice. The case of Kuwait was used
to illustrate the impact global changes on architecture during the second half
of the 20th century. The impact of globalization on architecture in
the case of Kuwait is magnified due to the speed and magnitude of change that
occurred in a very short period of time. The sudden transformation of the built
environment from a vernacular to a modern environment was the result of global
changes that generated immediate wealth and opportunities to apply modern
theories of architecture and planning. It was, like what other countries
experience today, a global change of life due to economic, political and
technological rapid changes.
In other parts
of the world, the impact of global changes occurred gradually and was not
perceived as a threat to local cultures and traditions. It was, first, the
product of these cultures and, second, no serious challenges were made of its appropriateness
to other cultures and localities. Gail Satler suggests that in most existing
analyses, we find the Western "eye" or traditional frameworks being
imposed on Eastern (other) forms so that their intention and structure are, at
best, rendered other or complementary, their meanings are
dismissed as less significant and are evicted or subsumed into more familiar
and therefore understandable frameworks. He suggests a more useful analytic
paradigm for reading nontraditional architectural forms. This paradigm, he
added, "offers a more interesting definition of globalization - one
that understands the essential need to preserve and respect diversity as well
as house seemingly disparate philosophies of space, and their interactions with
and within the built form. The paradigm recognizes other cultures to be as
essential to the existence of the dominant form and it considers whether, at
some point, all the marginal cultures carry enough weight to transform the
center - eventually shifting the center of that space from where only the
dominant form can be viewed to where cultures meet and contest, rather than
absorb or are absorbed. That is an architectural (and social) terrain that one
could call global in the deepest sense of the term” (Satler, 1999, p. 15).
The case of
Kuwait provides important lessons for other parts of the world. First, the
sudden break of historical continuity in culture and the built environment
generates negative feelings of alienations and loss of identity. Second, it is
easier and faster to change the built environment and architecture than to
change social and cultural understandings that require a longer time to change.
Third, the establishment of formal architectural education and architectural
professional practice controls is an essential element in the creation of a
meaningful built environment. And, fourth, the participation international
architects is an important contribution for the transmission of new theories,
construction methods and ways of thinking to local architects who also have
another role of selecting appropriate ideas to local contexts.
This paper
suggests a model of change that Kuwait and countries of similar experiences
have gone through. Figure 7 illustrates the impact of globalization on
architecture according to social and cultural responses to its rapid changes. It
is suggested that this model be tested against other experiences in other parts
of the world. It is also expected that the paste of responses and changes be
different from one locality to the other according to the speed change.
Understanding
the impact of global changes will allow us to develop meaningful responses
through architectural education and the professional practice. There are global
and local requirements in order for technological developments to provide
better living conditions and there are social and cultural aspects that require
sensitive handling in order to sustain the human development.
References:
Alexander,
Christopher, 1994. Domestic Architecture, Keynote speech to Doors of Perception
2 Conference, November.
Al-Hathloul,
Saleh A. (1981) Tradition, Continuity and Change in the Physical Environment:
The Arab-Muslim city. PH.D. Thesis submitted to the Department of Architecture,
MIT.
Al-Mutawa,
Saleh, 1994. History of Architecture in Old Kuwait City, Kuwait: Al-Khat.
Dandekar, C.
Hemalata, 1998. Global space meets local space in the Twenty-First Century.
Proceedings of an International Symposium “City Space + Globalization: An International
Perspective”, College of Architecture and Urban Planning, The University of
Michigan, February 26-28, 1998.
Davey, Peter,
1998. Comment, The Architectural Review, Volume CCIII:1213.
Gardiner,
Stephen, 1983. Kuwait: The making of a city. Longman.
Goodwin, G.,
1997. Saleh Abulghani Al-Mutawa: New Vision in Kuwait, London: Alrabea.
Held, David and
McGrew, Anthony, 1999. Global Transformations: Politics, Economics and Culture,
co-author, Polity Press and Stanford University Press.
Ibn Khaldoon,
Abdel Rahman, 1969. The Muqaddimah: An Introduction to History, translated from
the Arabic by Franz Rosenthal, Bollingen Series, Princeton University Press.
Khattab, Omar,
2001. Globalization Versus Localization: Contemporary Architecture and the Arab
City. CTBUH REVIEW, Vol.1:3, pp. 56-68.
Kultermann, Udo,
Contemporary Architecture in the Arab States: Renaissance of a Region,
McGraw-Hill, New York, 1999.
Satler, Gail,
1999. The architecture of Frank LLoyd Wright: A Global View, Journal of
Architectural Education, PP. 15-24.
Shiber, Saba G., 1964. The Kuwait
Urbanization. Kuwait Government Printing Press.
Shuaib, H., 1999. Towards Modern
Kuwaiti Architecture Developed From Tradition, AMAR, Kuwait.
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Use of traditional elements in contemporary architecture in Kuwait - استخدام عناصر مستمدة من العمارة التقليدية للتعبير عن الهوية الثقافية
Use of
traditional elements in contemporary architecture in Kuwait
Dr. Yasser
Mahgoub
Abstract:
The use of elements derived form traditional
architecture to express a cultural identity is noticeable in many parts of the
world. While some view it as an authentic effort to relate contemporary
architecture to its locality, others view it as a fake attempt to mask
contemporary architecture with covers from the past. This paper examines the
use of traditional architecture elements in contemporary architecture in Kuwait . It investigates
the current attempts to utilize elements derived from traditional Kuwaiti
architecture in the design of contemporary architecture. The aim is to
understand these efforts in the context of Kuwait , where architecture passed
through dramatic transformations during the second half of the twentieth
century as a result of economic, regional and global changes. The views of architects
and non architects are considered as well as the different strategies used in
expressing cultural identity. Interviews and questionnaires with architects and
non architects were conducted and examples of projects were surveyed and
analyzed. The analysis of data illustrated the views of architects and their
perception by non architects. The study concluded that, on one hand,
architecture who use traditional elements employed several strategies as an
attempt to express an architectural identity in their work. On the other hand,
architects who don’t attempt to use traditional elements in their work assert
that cultural identity is constantly changing and that it is a product of
authentic practices and design. While this study is relevant to other Gulf countries
that share similar conditions with Kuwait , it is also relevant to
other countries in other parts of the world in their attempt to search for an
identity in architecture.
ملخص
من الملاحظ في كثير من بلدان العالم استخدام
عناصر مستمدة من العمارة التقليدية للتعبير عن الهوية الثقافية. وفي حين يرى البعض
أنها محاولة أصيلة لربط العمارة المعاصرة بجذورها ، يرى آخرون أنها محاولة وهمية لاستخدام
قناع يغطي العمارة المعاصرة بعناصر من الماضي. تبحث هذه الورقة استخدام عناصر
العمارة التقليدية في العمارة المعاصرة في الكويت و المحاولات الجارية الآن للاستفادة
من العناصر المستمدة من العمارة الكويتية التقليدية في تصميم العمارة المعاصرة.
والهدف من الدراسة هو محاولة فهم هذه المحاولات في الكويت، حيث مرت العمارة بتحولات
هائلة خلال النصف الثاني من القرن العشرين نتيجة للتغيرات الاقتصادية والإقليمية
والعالمية. تناقش الورقة آراء المعماريين و الاستراتيجيات المختلفة التي
يستخدمونها في التعبير عن الهوية الثقافية للعمارة الكويتية. وقد تم عمل مقابلات
واستبيانات مع المعماريين وغير المعماريين وجمع أمثلة من المشاريع وتحليلها. وقد خلصت
الدراسة إلى وجود عدة استراتيجيات يقوم من خلالها المعماريين باستخدام العناصر
التقليدية في محاولة للتعبير عن الهوية المعمارية في عملهم. ومن ناحية أخرى فان المعماريين
الذين لا يستخدمون العناصر التقليدية في عملهم يؤكدون على أن الهوية الثقافية في
تغير مستمر وأنها نتاج لممارسات أصيلة في التصميم. قارنت الدراسة بين آراء
المعماريين وغير المعماريين للتعرف على العناصر المشتركة والمختلفة في رؤيتهم
لاستخدام العناصر التقليدية في العمارة المعاصرة. وفي حين أن هذه الدراسة مفيدة لدول
الخليج حيث تتشابه ظروفها مع الكويت ، فهي ذات أهمية للبلدان الأخرى في أنحاء
العالم في محاولة للبحث عن الهوية في العمارة.
1. Introduction:
Arab
architects are in a continuous process of criticizing their own versions of
modern and post modern architecture and the prevailing contemporary practices.
Within their criticism, discourses always suggest the recycling of traditional
architecture and its elements as a way of establishing and imposing a
distinguished character in the contemporary city. Typically, this takes the
form of either refurbishing old palaces and public buildings, or establishing
visual references—borrowed from the past—and utilized in contemporary/modern
buildings. (Slama, 2009)
The use of
elements derived form traditional architecture to express a cultural identity
is noticeable in many parts of the world. While some view it as an authentic
effort to relate contemporary architecture to the roots of the place, others
view it as a fake attempt to mask contemporary architecture with covers from
the past. This
paper examines the use of traditional architecture elements in contemporary
architecture in Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait
2. Theoretical framework:
The beginning of the 21st century is marked by
increasing globalization and the affirmation of a singular identity that is in
constant tension with traditional local identities. This trend has started
after the spread of the international style, during the second half of the 20th century, and
intensified as a result of the spread of globalization as a dominating world
view at the end of the century. As a reaction to this sweeping trend, the
phenomenon of expressing local cultural identities in architecture is observed
in many parts of the world. As Castells put it, “cultural identity is the
process by which social actors build their own meaning according to cultural
attributes.” (Castells, 2004)
The question of whether architecture
should express a cultural identity is being investigated by many researchers in
many parts of the world. Gospondini argues that “in the process of economic and
cultural globalization, European integration and the blur of national
identities in Europe , place identity emerges
as a central concern of both scholars and other people.” (Gospodini, 2004, p.
225) In Singapore
The general debate on the
representation of cultural identity in architecture was initiated by Frampton
and others in the 80s by introducing the concept of critical regionalism. Kenneth
Frampton’s theory of critical regionalism received much attention as it seemed
particularly relevant to developing countries faced with the onslaught of
Western media, commodification and globalization (Frampton, 1985). The
architecture of critical regionalism makes reference to the site, the “genius
loci” on a more abstract level. Rather than dealing extensively with the region
itself and a particular regional style, Frampton’s concept of regionalism
mainly focuses on the relationship of a building to its site and location in a
sociological context. However, the concept of critical regionalism has since
been challenged by many critics, particularly those who question its relevance
for more advanced economies. According to Lim, “the concept of regionality
depends on it being possible to correlate cultural codes with geographical
regions. In modern societies these regional differences are largely
obliterated, or as I would add, hybridized.” (Lim, 2004, p.19)
Although this concept was developed
in the context of industrialized countries, it has also been applied to
contemporary architecture in developing countries. However, it seems that it
overlooks fundamental differences and neglects important factors underlying the
postcolonial development of architecture in these countries. Specifically, it
does not reflect the diverse and dynamic nature of the emergence of local
identities. It superimposes a rather static and narrow notion of local vs.
universal, traditional vs. modern concepts. As an analytical approach it seems
inadequate to capture the products of "local architecture" and their
perception by theorists and the general public. (Tzonis et al, 2003) In many
developing countries identities can hardly be localized and many places show
composite patterns with more than one identity. In addition, the works of
architects labeled as contributions to promoting "local identity"
seem to have more in common with the developments in other countries than with
the characteristics of the place where they have been erected.
In the Arab region, the phenomenon of
expressing cultural identity in architecture became significant during the
seventies as the influence of modernization started to be more apparent in
creating completely different architecture than the traditional Arab city
architecture. El-Sheshtawy et al (2000) argue that third world cities -
especially those which have witnessed rapid growth within the last two decades
- are moving towards a "co-existence" model which takes into account
forces of modernization and change (globalization) while at the same time
responding to the preservation of traditional elements within the society. They
concluded that an examination of the viability of this model and its
suitability for other cities is recommended and they argued that in a world
dominated by forces of globalization the current discourse on the "loss of
identity" needs to be reconsidered. Salama (2006) argues that, “in the
Arab region, issues that pertain to identity, character, and architectural
trends of the built environment have been in debate for two or three decades,
more so because of this region’s cultural uniqueness and plurality. However, it
is this cultural uniqueness that has made it a tough quest and has – in many
cases, culminated into sacred symbolism that is painful to behold or
comprehend.” (Salama, 2006) Saleh points out that climatic, social, topographic
and economical aspects were important factors in the formulation of regionalism
in Saudi Arabian cities. He argues that these factors are now weakened by two
controversial trends in planning and design of place known as the
traditionalism and modernism. He asserts that the professionals use their skill
in the incorporation of historical as well as new images of the physical place
and structures to enhance their identifiability and recognition in the city.
The image represents a cultural significance which tie it to culture. (Saleh,
1998) Al-Naim explains the cultural hybridity that characterizes built
environment in the Gulf countries as a product of two main ideological views:
the futuristic and traditionalist, “while the first group rejects historical
heritage, the second considers the past as the only valid evidence that should
be considered to shape the present. They both accept the use of technology as a
necessity that cannot be avoided.” (Al-Naim., 2005:105) He concludes that “when
a local culture borrows shapes and ideas to be utilized in the built
environment, several processes occur to ‘resist’ the ‘new’.” He calls it “the
mechanism of cultural resistance in the built environment.”(Al-Naim., 2005:116)
3. The Context:
Architecture in Kuwait
Figure 1. Kuwait
Attempts towards expressing cultural
identity in Kuwaiti architecture has started during the 1970s by foreign
architects who were invited to design landmark buildings after the
implementation of the first master plan in Kuwait Kuwait
Figure 2. Kuwait Parliament
Building
Figure 3. Kuwait
The appearance of architecture that
attempts to reflect cultural identity by Kuwaiti architects is a different
phenomenon. As described by Khattab (2001), "particularly in the case of Kuwait , reasserting the local identity has
lately become a matter of great importance especially after Iraq 's claims in Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait
Figure 4.
Example of projects by Architect Saleh Al Mutawa. (Source: the
author.)
4. Research Method:
For the purpose of this study, data
was collected using the following methods:
·
In-depth interviews with
architects and non architects were conducted.
·
Questionnaires were developed
and distributed to collect relevant information from architects and
non-architects.
·
Examples of projects using
traditional elements were collected surveyed and analyzed.
5. Analysis of data:
5.1.
The Architects’ Views
The analysis of data illustrated the
views of architects regarding the use of traditional elements in contemporary
architecture. It also illustrated the perception by non architects of the same
phenomenon. Architects who use traditional elements employed several strategies
as an attempt to express a Kuwaiti architectural identity in their work. On the
other hand, architects who don’t attempt to use traditional elements in their
work assert that cultural identity is constantly changing and that it is a
product of authentic practices and design.
There are commonalities and
differences between the views of the architects regarding the sources of
Kuwaiti architectural identity. There is a general agreement that the climate
and the environment have a major influence on the culture of the people and the
architectural identity. Environmental response to the climate is a key factor
in reflecting the identity of the country. Located in a harsh desert region, Kuwait
Many architects employ the metaphors
of the pearl shells and boats making in their buildings. The impact of the
religion on the culture is very significant and essential for understanding the
needs of the individual for privacy, family members interaction, and space
configuration and orientation. These needs are currently being modified under
the influence of higher economic standards and globalization. Religion is also
viewed as a unifying force of the individual with nature and society, a notion
opposite to the current trend towards individualism and show-off.
There is an agreement among
architects that there are elements, vocabularies, proportions, and materials
that distinguish traditional Kuwaiti architecture, but there is no agreement on
whether they should be used again or not. Some architects think that the reuse
of these elements and vocabulary is essential to achieve a distinctive
architectural Kuwaiti architectural identity that relates contemporary
architecture to traditional architecture. Others believe that it is not a necessity
to use these elements and vocabularies but it is essential to respond to the
climatic conditions and the specific needs of the Kuwaiti people.
Figure 5. Bait
Al Badr embodies many traditional elements. (Source: the author.)
There is recognition among Kuwaiti
architects that buildings alone are not sufficient to convey the cultural
identity. The context of architecture provides an important background against
which architecture is understood. The traditional city spaces provided an
important dimension to the experience and provided a meaningful reading of
traditional architecture buildings. When placed against modern streets and
buildings, traditional elements and vocabularies read more like Disney World
than authentic architecture.
5.2. The Views of Non-Architects’
The results indicated that there were
important differences between the views of architects and non-architects
regarding the meaning and importance of expressing a cultural identity in
Kuwaiti architecture. There was a significant difference between architects and
non-architects views regarding the expression of cultural identity in
contemporary architecture and environment. While architects considered that
architecture is always an expression of contemporary culture and life style,
non architects believe that cultural identity is only expressed in traditional
buildings and environments. Architects considered cultural identity to be
expressed mainly through the urban context while non-architects considered that
cultural identity to be expressed mainly through individual buildings.
Another important difference was
found between the views of the architects and the non-architects regarding the
role of the client in positively contributing to the establishment of a
cultural identity. While architects considered the client as an important
contributor in encouraging the architect to design buildings that reflect a
local cultural identity, non-architects considered the architect as the sole
responsible entity for the promotion of cultural identity in architecture.
6. Conclusions:
This study revealed that there are
commonalities and differences between the views of the Kuwaiti architects
regarding the sources of Kuwaiti cultural identity. The use of traditional
elements is contemporary architecture is a reaction to rapid changes that
Kuwait went through during the second half of the 20th century that
included dramatic transformation from traditional to modern environment, the
traumatic impact of 1990 invasion and globalization . The use of traditional elements
is not recognized as an attempt to return to the past but as an attempt to
recognize the past as starting point for present and future developments. Architects
and non-architects realize the impracticality to relive in traditional
buildings, but both groups recognize the need to have a distinctive identity
that is related to a distinguished past. As Slama put it:
Societies
tend to re-evaluate the meaning and desirability of built environments rapidly.
The search for an architectural identity, the rise and fall of ISMS (movements
and tendencies), and the continuous debate on symbolism and character issues in
architecture are derived from this fact. That search seems to be a
preoccupation with countries that have cultural richness and multi-layers of history.
Architects and designers in those countries find themselves dealing with a
paradox needing to project a certain image of themselves through their built
environment. (Salama, 2007)
While this study is relevant to other
Gulf countries that share similar conditions with Kuwait France
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BIOGRAPHICAL NOTE
Dr. Yasser Mahgoub, Assistant Professor of Architecture, Department of
Architecture, College of Engineering and Petroleum, Kuwait University. Received
B. Sc. in Architectural Engineering degree from Ain
Shams University ,
Cairo , Egypt
in 1978 and Doctorate in Architecture degree from The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor , USA Ain Shams University ,
Cairo , Egypt
from 1978 to 1993, United Arab Emirates
University , Al Ain, UAE from 1993 to
1999, and Kuwait University Egypt
and as a consultant for Kuwait University Vice President for the New University
City Campus.
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