Sustainable-Oriented Development for Urban Interface of Historic Centers

Abstract

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) cities’ historic centers have a unique urban fabric regarding land use, physical characteristics, and environmental performance. Several cities within this region are subject to significant development projects based on demolition and replacement. These projects aim to improve the quality of life and enhance the city’s socioeconomic and sustainability. This paper investigates the physical characteristics of the urban interface between the historical centers and the rest of the cities’ urban expansions to ensure a smooth transition between the historic urban fabric and the rest of the city’s urban fabric. The research objective was fulfilled by developing a framework to classify urban fabric types based on their physical characteristics. Jeddah city was selected as a case study. Six growth phases of the city were identified. Based on this classification, urban fabric samples representing these phases were selected. These urban samples’ physical characteristics were analyzed. Results identified in urban fabric characteristics between the historic center and the other identified urban fabrics within the city, especially the demolished deteriorated surrounding urban areas. Urban features for under-development urban areas were concluded. Design guidelines were suggested for historical centers to achieve homogeneous integrated, sustainable, livable urban areas.