A Vital Proposal for Reestablishing Post-War Rural Housing in Syria

Abstract

The debate about post-war reconstruction has been ongoing during the last six years of the ongoing Syrian war. The increasing volume of destruction in different big cities has created a need for new ideas and innovative building solutions. Many studies have tried to suggest solutions comparing other countries ruined by wars such as post-WWII case studies from Germany, Poland, Italy, and also Bosnia after the Balkan War. The case studies have considered similarities and differences demanding innovative ideas and non-traditional solutions for the reconstruction of large Syrian cities such as Aleppo and Homs. With the recent political and military changes in Syria many Syrian refugees have started to return to relatively safe areas within Syria, especially from neighboring countries. New needs have emerged to accommodate and support people who have lost their homes in cities, towns, and villages. This paper is investigating an alternative solution building upon the local Syrian vernacular architecture and construction using existing traditions and methodologies as a possible feasible alternative to rebuild homes in rural areas. This building methodology is suitable for rural society not only for architectural appropriateness, but also for economic and social reasons. Ancient cities such as Aleppo and Homs have been destroyed and rebuilt several times during their long histories. The accumulated experience gained from building local vernacular architecture is being used as a source for future reconstruction efforts by adapting it to modern needs. The aim of this study is to investigate the possibilities of using traditional materials and construction methods in rural Syrian areas to build modular housing units for displaced Syrians. The goal is to provide a feasible transitional alternative to the tents in refugee camps. The proposed modular homes are more stable than tents, are easy to build, and provide a quick option to provide housing with living quality. The advantage of the proposed housing is the reintroduction of an existing building tradition with the same cultural and social values. The homes are intended for the returning inhabitants from the rural areas and urban Syrian refugees staying temporarily until the larger urban centers have some reconstructed infrastructure. The therapeutic effects of the countryside and the social connections established by working together to physically rebuild the homes are aspects considered in this reconstruction proposal.