Open House International

Kusumowidagdo, Astrid; Ujang, Norsidah; Rahadiyanti, Melania; Ramli, Nurul Atikah

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-01-2022-0009

This study aims to capture a sense of place by analysing the physical attributes of the traditional shopping streets located in Indonesia and Malaysia through Instagram posts.Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a direct content analysis using visual images of 400 posts of Indonesian and Malaysian respondents. The Instagram Application Programming Interface (API) was used to extract data from Instagram posts. It is then followed by the quantitative analysis to determine the frequencies of visual and narrative representations of physical attributes defining the sense of place.Findings Five visual and narrative categories, namely architectural style, store design, special focal points, and the varieties of products and services that represent the physical attributes of shopping streets, were investigated. The findings would benefit the urban preservation initiatives so that the sense of place as authentic tourism destinations can be secured.Social implications The awareness of the traditional shopping street as a place of character, especially from social media users, is able to create local values that lead to place imageability and promote national tourism.Originality/value This study captured the sense of traditional places based on the people’s identifications that were shared on social media platforms. The posts’ preferences confirmed the significance of traditional shopping streets as a place of attraction and identity. The findings addressed the functions of physical attributes in sustaining the historical and authentic values of traditional shopping streets.

Karadag, İlker

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-05-2022-0124

Accurate documentation of damaged or destroyed historical buildings to protect cultural heritage has been on the agenda of architecture for many years. In that sense, this study uses machine learning (ML) to predict missing/damaged parts of historical buildings within the scope of early ottoman tombs.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses conditional generative adversarial networks (cGANs), a subset of ML to predict missing/damaged parts of historical buildings within the scope of early Ottoman tombs. This paper discusses that using GAN as a ML framework is an efficient method for estimating missing/damaged parts of historical buildings. The study uses the plan drawings of nearly 200 historical buildings, which were prepared one by one as a data set for the ML process.FindingsThe study contributes to the field by (1) generating a mixed methodological framework, (2) validating the effectiveness of the proposed framework in the restitution of historical buildings and (3) assessing the contextual dependency of the generated data. The paper provides insights into how ML can be used in the conservation of architectural heritage. It suggests that using a comprehensive data set in the process can be highly effective in getting successful results. The findings of the research will be a reference for new studies on the conservation of cultural heritage with ML and will make a significant contribution to the literature.Research limitations/implicationsA reliable outcome has been obtained concerning the interpretation of documented data and the generation of missing data at the macro level. The framework is remarkably effective when it comes to the identification and re-generation of missing architectural components like walls, domes, windows, doors, etc. on a macro level without details. On the other hand, the proposed methodological framework is not ready for advanced steps of restitution since every case of architectural heritage is very detailed and unique. Therefore, the proposed framework for re-generation of missing components of heritage buildings is limited by the basic geometrical form which means the architectural details of the mentioned components including ornaments, materials, identification of construction layers, etc. are not covered.Originality/valueThe generic literature as to ML models used in architecture mostly constitutes design exploration and floor plan/urban layout generation. More specific studies in the conservation of architectural heritage by using ML mostly focus on architectural component recognition over 3D point cloud data (1) or superficial damage detection of heritage buildings (2). However, we propose a mixed methodological framework for the interpretation of documented architectural data and the regeneration of missing parts of historical buildings. In addition, the methodology and the results of this paper constitute a guide for further research on ML and consequently contribute to architects in the early phases of restitution.

Umar, Nur; Yüceer, Hülya; Aydın, Rozelin

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-09-2021-0205

The purpose of this paper is to identify the levels of awareness of locals about conservation and cultural heritage, in order to develop suggestions and methods for them to participate in these processes.Design/methodology/approachThe method of research is based on face-to-face surveys, mainly questionnaires that were conducted with 1,200 local people. The data obtained was evaluated using the SPSS 25.0.0 V program.FindingsThe results show that locals mainly find appropriate the assets that reflect their culture but disregard archaeological remains. The participation of locals in the conservation process will end up benefiting them economically.Social implicationsIt is currently accepted that effective conservation cannot be achieved unless its technical considerations are considered together with social and cultural aspects. Ensuring the participation of local people in the conservation process has proved to be important in the development of holistic and sustainable outcomes. In places, where multilayered cultural heritage exists and local residents are from different cultural backgrounds, a detailed assessment of cultural heritage perception that involves local people gains significance.Originality/valueIt is project-based in the sense of adding the dimension of community awareness to the practice of cultural heritage conservation in the multilayered and multicultural places.

Zabihi, Ali; Mirzaei, Reza

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-01-2022-0025

The house not only provides shelter and security but also is a reflection of human privacy. One of the important factors involved in house design is privacy. The current research is a case study that examines privacy's evolution in contemporary houses in Kerman using space syntax techniques.Design/methodology/approachThis study is based on the quantitative approach of space syntax. A total number of 15 houses in Kerman built in three periods of Qajar, Pahlavi and the Islamic Republic, were examined for the space syntax indices using UCL DepthMap. The DepthMap outputs were also analyzed using one-way ANOVA.FindingsThe findings indicated that the arrangement of spaces in houses has altered over time from the 1920s onwards. There is a significant difference between houses of the Qajar, Pahlavi and the Islamic Republic eras, indicating a reduction in the hierarchy of access and reduced privacy in houses in the Islamic Republic.Research limitations/implicationsNumerous factors affect privacy (e.g. confidentiality, interface spaces, quality of openings and visibility). Nevertheless, this study focused on the impact of spatial configuration on privacy. It can be stated that the design of houses from the Pahlavi period was gradually associated with changes in culture and modern architecture, leading to a decrease in privacy.Originality/valueThis study used space syntax to examine the evolution of privacy in contemporary Iranian houses. Since privacy is a substantial issue in the middle east communities, the findings can help designers and relevant organizations consider privacy as much as other comfort factors in the early stages of design.

Faiz Büyükçam, Serap; Eyüboğlu, Hande

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-03-2022-0072

This study aims to evaluate the reuse of monumental structures through sustainability components, with the aim of emphasizing the sustainability of re-functional monumental structures.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, which is based on situation analysis, urban inns in Samsun which is located in the Central Black Sea Region of Turkey, are discussed over the data obtained from archive and field studies in line with the environmental, social and economic sustainability criteria determined as a result of literature research.FindingsThe sustainability of the sample in the environmental, social and economic context has been revealed and what should be done for the sustainability of monumental structures over environmental, social and economic components has been discussed.Social implicationsIt has increased awareness of the environmental, social and economic dimensions of adaptive reuse as well as increasing the awareness of the buildings.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature in terms of evaluating monumental structures through the determined sustainability components. It is the first study on the sustainability of urban inns in the province of Samsun, the construction material of which is stone.

AL-Mohannadi, Asmaa; Furlan, Raffaello; Grosvald, Michael

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-01-2022-0011

This research study aims to explore sociocultural factors such as privacy and gender segregation as they relate to the spatial perception of women's spaces within the vernacular Qatari household, and the activities, habits and practiced culture of its inhabitants.Design/methodology/approachThis analysis utilizes the Space Syntax methodology to examine a sample of vernacular courtyard houses with respect to space connectivity, conducting an analytical exploration of the role of women based on the system of activities.FindingsThe findings shed light on the spatial complexity and sensitivity of the Qatari household as it reflects the prevailing sociocultural imperatives in Qatari urbanities, including the country's capital, Doha.Research limitations/implicationsThis research study thus reinforces the importance of traditional residential architecture in conserving Qatar's distinctive architectural identity, rooted in its sociocultural attributes.Social implicationsSociocultural features such as privacy and gender segregation are among the most prominent factors influencing the spatial form of vernacular courtyard houses in the Arabian Gulf country of Qatar.Originality/valueIt is argued that within a typical vernacular Qatari household, women's spaces are the least connected (most segregated) areas, due mainly to the influence of privacy norms and gender segregation on the spatial configuration of the house.

Al-Hammadi, Nessma A. Q.; Grchev, Kokan

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-01-2022-0007

Adopting Mapping Literature, the purpose of this study is to notice the tendency in defining contextualism through extrinsic aspects neglecting the intrinsic ones generating three theoretical gaps in understanding contextualism, especially in terms of (1) physical/cultural aspects (P/C); (2) traditional vs contemporary architecture (T/C); and (3) place identity (PI).Design/methodology/approachA directed systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to investigate the Web of Science and Google Scholar engines for the related studies, resulting in 66 texts of book chapters, conferences, articles and practitioners’ texts. Using the PRISMA reporting method, the study presented the SLR procedure that narrowed the related studies to 66 texts of book chapters, conferences, articles and practitioners’ texts. Both consensus and debates in understanding the relation between contextualism and (T/C, P/C and PI) were re-visited (see Appendix).FindingsAccording to the findings, the studies tend to address contextualism through either extrinsic or intrinsic values. The undefined balance between extrinsic and intrinsic aspects in understanding and creating contextual architecture seems to be the common reason why the three theoretical gaps exist.Originality/valueThis paper did not only conduct an SLR investigation on the topic, which is limited in the field, but it also highlighted the need for further and constant discussions despite the previous one to improve the understanding of contextual architecture.

Son, Juntae Jake; Kim, Suk-Kyung; Syal, M.G. Matt

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-01-2022-0008

The purpose of this study is to examine the energy savings in the indoor environment, using strategies that adopt the characteristics of nature, called biomimetic solutions. This research designed a biomimetic window system to bring daylight into interior spaces in educational buildings where daylight cannot be reached. Specifically, this study assessed how the daylight that was achieved via a biomimetic window system would affect energy savings using an energy simulation method.Design/methodology/approachThis study explored how biomimetic methods would affect the building environment and which biomimetic method would involve the building's energy saving with daylight. The research intended to develop a novel biomimetic window system that can bring daylight to the basement floor of an existing building on a university campus to find out how much the biomimetic window system would affect the energy savings of the building. Referring to the existing building's layout and structure, energy simulation models were developed, and the energy consumptions were estimated.FindingsSimulation models proved that the biomimetic window system has sufficient performance to bring more daylight to the basement floor of the building. Furthermore, it was confirmed that the use of the biomimetic window system for the building could reduce energy usage compared to the actual energy usage of the current building without biomimetic windows.Research limitations/implicationsFirst, this study was adopted as a computer-designed simulation method instead of using a real-world system. Although this study designed the biomimetic window system based on previous studies, it should be considered the possibility of other problems when the system is actually built in. Second, it is necessary to predict how much an initial budget is required when the system is built. It means that this study did not calculate the lifecycle cost of the biomimetic window system. It will also be necessary to compare energy consumption to the required initial budget. Lastly, this study was simulated based on weather data in cold regions, and it did not compare/analyze different climate regions. Different results may be predicted if the biomimetic window system is built in different climatic regions.Originality/valueThis research showed new practical ways to capture and transmit solar heat and light using a biomimetic solution. Furthermore, using the proposed novel biomimetic window system, the amount of energy reduction can be calculated, and this method could be applied in the interior non-window spaces of academic and related types of buildings.

Bettaieb, Donia M.; Alsabban, Reem F.

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-02-2022-0040

Studies related to biophilic design (BD) have not clarified the user's role in applying its elements and features to improve quality of life (physical and mental health). This paper aims to highlight the users' role (experience, practice, and advice) when utilising aspects of BD in the interior environment of modern houses (MH) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as a case study.Design/methodology/approachA study of users' experiences was conducted through a qualitative approach by analysing semi-structured one-to-one interviews with a representative sample from Jeddah (12 heads of the family) using an adapted Biophilic Interior Design Matrix. An inductive approach was applied by extrapolating the users' role in employing BD elements in the MH's interior environment based on their experience in employing various biophilic elements.FindingsThe findings demonstrate the importance of the user's role when incorporating biophilic elements in living spaces. The levels of employment of BD elements of various kinds in the interior environment of the MH as a whole are considered high. A high percentage was observed regarding the availability of BD elements in the 40–59 years age group (87%), and a relationship was observed between housing type (villas vs apartments) and availability of BD elements. Additionally, a relationship was observed between the use of a professional designer when designing the house and the availability of biophilic elements. However, the sample did not have a grasp of several BD concepts. The application is generally made without knowing the positive impact on mental health. The user matrix was compiled as a reference that reflects the features and elements that are easily enjoyed in activating BD and enhancing the users' role in raising the level of BD in their homes. An initial classification of BD features was elaborated regarding the physical structure (PS) of a building, features regarding the user under control (UUC) and features regarding the user out of control (UOC).Research limitations/implicationsThe classification was preliminarily based on PS, UUC, and UOC. Future research is required to confirm what has been communicated through advanced and in-depth research for housing analysis to confirm and enhance the user's role. This approach is a quick alternative solution to employ biophilic elements.Originality/valueThe authors focussed on the immaterial aspect of BD in interior spaces from the user's experience. BD-related studies have focussed on the physical aspect of architectural space.

Aboualy, Sarah; Mansour, Yasser; El-Fiki, Sherif

2023 Open House International

doi: 10.1108/ohi-07-2021-0135

The paper aims to study the applicability of Lefebvre's everyday life theory “production of space” in Sheraton's in-between spaces upon local residents' daily practices. Space as Lefebvre said is a result and cause, product and producer. Sheraton District, Cairo comprises lots of underutilized spaces between buildings. The in-between spaces have great potentials for accommodating diverse activities. The present study addresses the phenomenon of in-between spaces in this district. It is argued that in-between spaces can be developed to realize better functional and symbolic values, as the users attach special meanings based on users' everyday living.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopts a qualitative approach to investigate the above relationship on the mentioned district. The study devises direct observation to investigate people's behavioral patterns in such appropriated areas to analyze them in the light of preceding literature.FindingsThe study concludes that people's everyday practices could re-invent the in-between spaces by realizing new functions and meanings in dynamic and creative ways. That experience can apply to other underutilized spaces in the district and the city toward improving the built environment and the quality of residents' life.Research limitations/implicationsFinally, it is important to note that the findings of the study are limited to the studied context. Undertaking similar studies to other in-between spaces in Cairo, in other Egyptian cities or other countries may yield different findings. It may be equally interesting to study the means of adaptation in other underutilized urban spaces, such as those found underneath bridges, underneath buildings and on the rooftops.Originality/valueThe main aim of the present study is to examine the impact of everyday practices on the appropriation of a transformed in-between space in the aforementioned district, and the extent to which that may improve in-between spaces' role toward the local community, in order to promote such approach for developing many underutilized in-between spaces in the area. Toward realizing this goal, the study begins with a theoretical background about everyday life. Then, the paper addresses the theory of space appropriation. The outcome is then empirically investigated in relation to one transformed in-between space in Sheraton District, Cairo.