In this paper, we examine the villa-like apartment units’ spatial design features and layouts in Abu Dhabi’s recently built multi-family midrise housing developments. The study explores whether contemporary midrise housing units' villa-like features, which enhance the space quality, are balanced with traditional and cultural values in the context of Abu Dhabi’s urban housing development. Additionally, it proposes a design approach model aimed at achieving a balanced integration of these values.
The research methodology integrates a case study analysis of selected midrise housing examples, resident surveys and a design approach model to explore and integrate design to balance cultural and traditional values in the context of Abu Dhabi.
While villa-like design elements have been incorporated to enhance living standards in Abu Dhabi’s recently constructed multi-family midrise housing units, there remains a gap in integrating these spaces with the cultural and traditional contexts. There is a need to strengthen the bond between residents and their cultural heritage through architectural design.
A design proposal is developed on the identified missing and desired qualities incorporating suggestions and recommendations from residents is the originality and value of the paper where the outcomes of the research are evaluated as a design proposal.
