Transformation of Architectural Qualities in Old Cities in Oman over a Decade

Cities have been expanding over the years, transforming and evolving with all the new technologies being introduced, and this has affected the layout of the city physically, culturally, and environmentally. In certain regions, such as the Sultanate of Oman, this has resulted in the creation of urban sprawl, abandoning some buildings, neighborhoods, and villages, and losing the urban and architectural qualities that represent the original identity of the place. Research has shown that multiple initiatives by the community have been made to rehabilitate some of those structures. This study aims to examine two case studies in the Sultanate of Oman and show the transformation in the urban and architectural context of the existing structures over the past decade. A combination of qualitative data collection methodology was used, including on-site observations, analysis of primary and secondary data, and interviews with locals experiencing the changes over the years. The results showed that there was a strong interrelation between the desire of living in a high-tech environment and rooting for their origins. Also, the built structures and their uses reflected the awareness of the different generations about the quality of space. Further research would help identify the factors that could create the right balance between a contemporary living quality and the original character of the place.