Title |
A Cultural Comparative Study on the Spatial Structure of Urban Courtyard Housing |
Abstract |
This study is focused on the spatial structure of oriental urban courtyard housing. Morphologies of courtyard housing are examined in order to explain the environmental characters of the housing and the similarities and differences of itsspace organization. Examples from Iraq, India, China and Korea are analyzed in terms of their spatial organizations which reflects their social organizations and climatic conditions. The form of dwelling harmonizes with the way of life of its inhabitants and reflect strong cultural values. Courtyard housings of the four cultures bear an uncanny resemblance to each other. Similarities in scale of the dwellings, zoning of internal spaces and utilization of a bent entrance are some of the areas of congruence. In an effort to illustrate the need for the use oftraditional knowledge to solve contemporary problems, the study concludes with the summary evaluation ofcourtyard philosophy that indicates the attributes and liabilities of the courtyard house for the present. |