Architectural design in Jordan navigates globalization by critically integrating local and global cultural influences.

Why It Matters

Understanding how cultural influences are mediated in architectural practice is crucial for designers working in diverse globalized environments. It highlights the need for a nuanced approach that respects local identity while embracing international trends, impacting user experience and the built environment's cultural resonance.

Key Finding

Jordanian architects are not simply copying styles; they are thoughtfully blending local heritage with global trends, influenced by their evolving professional roles and the real estate market.

Key Findings

• Architects critically reflect on and inquire into historical and contemporary local and global contexts and cultural influences.
• The changing role of the architect and the relationship with the real estate development industry are significant factors.
• Globalization presents challenges in mediating between local and global influences, requiring more than superficial replication.

Research Evidence

Aim: To explore how Jordanian architects integrate local and global cultural themes into their design thinking and architectural practice post-1990.

Method: Key informant ethnographic approach (interviews)

Procedure: Interviews were conducted with five expert Jordanian architects to understand their approaches to incorporating local and global cultural influences in their designs.

Sample Size: 5 participants

Context: Professional architectural practice in Jordan

Design Principle

Cultural Synthesis: Design solutions should thoughtfully integrate relevant local and global cultural elements through critical inquiry and reflection.

How to Apply

When undertaking a design project in a new cultural context, conduct in-depth research into both the historical and contemporary cultural landscape, and engage with local stakeholders to understand how to best integrate these influences.

Limitations

The study is limited to the perspectives of five architects in Jordan and may not represent all architectural practices in the region or globally.

Student Guide (IB Design Technology)

Simple Explanation: Architects in Jordan are finding ways to mix old local styles with new international ideas in their buildings, but they are thinking about it carefully, not just copying.

Why This Matters: This research shows that good design considers the cultural background of the users and the place, which is important for any design project that aims to be relevant and well-received.

Critical Thinking: How might the economic pressures of the real estate industry conflict with the nuanced integration of cultural influences in architectural design?

IA-Ready Paragraph: This study highlights that contemporary architectural practices, exemplified by Jordanian architects, engage in a critical synthesis of local and global cultural influences. This process involves deep inquiry into historical and contemporary contexts, moving beyond superficial imitation to create designs that resonate culturally. Understanding this nuanced approach is vital for any design project aiming to navigate diverse cultural landscapes.

Project Tips

• When researching cultural influences, look beyond surface aesthetics to understand the underlying values and historical context.
• Consider how your design choices might be perceived by different cultural groups.

How to Use in IA

• Use this research to justify the importance of cultural context in your design process, especially if your project has a global or cross-cultural element.

Examiner Tips

• Demonstrate an understanding of how cultural context shapes design decisions and user reception.

Independent Variable: Integration of local and global cultural themes

Dependent Variable: Architectural design thinking and practice

Controlled Variables: Practicing Jordanian architects, post-1990 context

Strengths

• Focuses on expert practitioners, providing in-depth insights.
• Addresses a gap in research regarding contemporary architectural practice in Jordan.

Critical Questions

• To what extent do these findings apply to architectural practices in other rapidly developing or globalizing regions?
• How can architectural education better equip students to critically engage with cultural influences in their designs?

Extended Essay Application

• An Extended Essay could explore the application of these principles to the design of a specific cultural space or community center, analyzing how local and global influences are integrated.

Source

Cultural Influences in Jordanian Architectural Practices: Post 1990 · PRISM (University of Calgary) · 2013 · 10.11575/prism/25503