Two essential characteristics in the urban design of any residence across human cultures and civil societies throughout history are providing protection from external factors and private breathing space for its inhabitants, along with other important benefits.
These two characteristics are:
- The Wall
- The Courtyard (Hosh)
Their presence in urban housing is fundamental regardless of the plot size, though as the area increases, the courtyard and open-air space may expand accordingly.
Despite cultural differences, the courtyard exists in Eastern design at the center of the house, while in Western design it’s within the walls – either in front, around, or behind the house, all within the property boundaries.
Except for the culture of the Municipal Council and Kuwait Municipality. They eliminated these two characteristics from the Kuwaiti house dictionary by incorporating the entire space into the housing envelope.
The result has transformed the Kuwaiti house into a concrete box and a tent without walls or courtyard, bringing a host of problems affecting its inhabitants, surroundings, and the country.
