Modern architecture in the historic urban landscape of Sharjah : a restorer's challenge

Ref.: 61
Key theme: 01 Physical integrity of historic urban landscapes
Date of reception: 12/11/2008

AUTHORS (*Main author)

RAB, Samia * (United States of America) - AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF SHARJAH

ABSTRACT

My proposed paper analyzes the role of modern architecture in the historic urban landscape in the Emirate of Sharjah. Research for this was conducted during my work as urban heritage consultant on the Heart of Sharjah Project to HH The Ruler's Office, Govt. of Sharjah.

Modern buildings in the Sharjah's heritage area offer extensive covered area for residential, commercial and office spaces, and generate mixed used activities. The total covered area (all floors included) occupied by the 68 surveyed buildings is 313,811 square meters on the total buildings' footprint area of 39152 square meters.

My research findings reveal the need to understand the value or insignificance of individual buildings (modern or pre-modern) in reviving the cultural integrity of Sharjah's heritage area. Restoration of select buildings of the modern era is necessary to retain an important layer of the past. Collectively, the 17 buildings along the Bank Street define a unique and contrasting framework for the Al Hisn Fort. The simultaneous existence of historic architecture set against the background of modern buildings is a prime example of struggle between progressive spirit and reverence for heritage, which has generated international discourse and cannot be found elsewhere in the Arabian Gulf.

While the modern buildings along Bank Street do not possess intrinsic or historical value, their plain architecture highlights the intricate details, material and texture of the traditional architecture exhibited in the Al Hisn Fort. In a way, this particular setting rivals the significance of the urban setting in Boston downtown where the Trinity Church is enhanced and glorified against the glass tower of the Hancock Building. It is also similar to, though in reverse form, to the Louvre in Paris, where the historic buildings provide a rich background for the modern intervention by I.M.Pie. The urban juxtaposition of modern buildings framing the Hisn Fort in Sharjah is a truly unique in the region and enhances the historic significance of the Emirate as a progressive state that respects its heritage. In addition, collectively, the 17 buildings along the Bank Street offer extensive covered area for residential, commercial and office spaces, and generate mixed used activities.

Understanding the significance of individual buildings is a fundamental step in developing an appropriate strategy to develop historic urban landscapes. This will provide vital information upon which decisions can be made that affect the building's existence, performance or appearance. Ultimately if the intrinsic qualities (physical and social) of Sharjah's historic landscape are not clearly and comprehensively identified and understood, improvements will not add value but potentially erode the quality, character and uniqueness of the Emirate of Sharjah.

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