IN-PERSON Lisbon Livable Cities. Section B
Abstract
Comparisons between the urban form of cities in Spain and the Arab world reveal profound parallels in their urban evolution. These connections transcend simple regional boundaries and stem from centuries of shared rule, and exchange. During the Roman era, cities across the Mediterranean, from North Africa to Spain, were shaped by common principles: narrow streets for optimizing urban space, fortified walls for protection, and public spaces fostering civic life. These shared principles shaped an urban fabric that inherently merged private and public spaces. This foundation became the basis for recognizing narrow alleys known as sikkas in Arabic, as both circulation and, more importantly, as spaces fostering social exchange. Over time, sikkas, once filled with community life and engagement, became neglected remnants of an older urban fabric. The passageways that had once facilitated movement and gathering became overlooked in the rush toward modern urban development. The formal and spatial resonance evident across the former Andalusian empire is reflected in the intimate scale of their public spaces, as well as in the cultural practices shaped by Arab influence. Arab influence relating to water has been largely lost as contemporary Spanish culture tends to treat water as a pragmatic issue rather than a poetic element. Our research sheds light on an opportunity to examine the role of water in these historical contexts, exploring its potential to be reintroduced as a key element that could foster new spatial experiences and reinforce cultural connections. This interwoven legacy of cultural exchange and influence between the Arab world and Spain becomes central to our thesis, where we explore how these historical connections can inform the design of the street as a potential zone for public ritual.
Jumana Rageh is a fourth year student at the American University of Sharjah, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture. Rooted in a passion for creating architecture that serves communities, her design narratives focus on addressing relevant societal challenges that drive project development. As a member of the American Institute of Architecture Students chapter at her university, she contributes to events that enrich architectural dialogue within herself and others. Her commitment to heritage sustainability has been recognized with a publication under the RIBA President’s Bronze Medal.
Leen Al Manaa, a fourth-year student at the American University of Sharjah, is driven by a curiosity to push the boundaries of spatial design. As an active member of the American Institute of Architecture Students chapter, she fosters community and supports professional growth. Her approach to architecture reflects a curious and experimental nature, embracing diverse representational techniques and creative design exploration. She is passionate about exploring various graphical representation methods and uncovering concepts that inspire and shape her design development.
Educated at the University of Virginia and Princeton University, Michael Hughes is a Professor of Architecture at the American University of Sharjah. His academic work is focused on small, unremarkable, and often forgotten places adjacent to the lives of underserved people. Located in the boundary between architecture, urbanism, and landscape his projects seek to create experiential delight out of small-scale design opportunities that augment existing infrastructures, provide pragmatic functions, promote play, and exhibit a social and environmental conscience.
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Thursday 10th July, 2025