REQUALIFICATION OF THE NORTH-WEST ENTRANCE TO THE CITY OF TLEMCEN THROUGH THE CULTURAL INTERPRETATION OF A COMMUNITY HUB.

Abstract

This research addresses the critical urban and cultural challenges facing Tlemcen, Algeria, by proposing an innovative framework that integrates traditional architectural heritage with contemporary sustainable practices. Focusing on the northwestern entrance of the city, El-Koudia—a historically significant yet degraded gateway—the study develops a masterplan and architectural intervention to revitalize the area while preserving its cultural identity and enhancing ecological resilience. The dissertation identifies systemic issues, including the deterioration of historic structures, uncontrolled urban sprawl, seismic vulnerabilities, and loss of cultural continuity. It hypothesizes that combining vernacular building techniques with modern sustainability strategies—such as adaptive reuse, bioclimatic design, and community-centric planning—can mitigate these challenges. Methodologically, the work employs computational tools (Revit BIM, Flex 4.0) alongside traditional Islamic architectural principles, including courtyard thermoregulation, geometric proportioning, and souk-inspired spatial networks. Key innovations include: (i)A multifunctional community hub that reactivates public space through mixed-use programming, achieving LEED Gold benchmarks in energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality. (ii)Sustainable technologies (radiant barriers, photovoltaic arrays, rainwater harvesting) paired with passive strategies (natural ventilation, solar orientation) to reduce operational carbon by 40%. (iii)Life-cycle assessment (LCA) validating adaptive reuse over demolition, with material recovery strategies minimizing embodied carbon. (iv)Hierarchical circulation networks to resolve traffic congestion while reinforcing pedestrian connectivity. The outcomes demonstrate: (i)Enhanced cultural identity through community engagement and heritage reinterpretation. (ii)Improved urban resilience by addressing seismic risks and climate vulnerabilities. (iii)A scalable model for Mediterranean cities grappling with modernization and patrimony. The study concludes with architectural policy recommendations to incentivize adaptive reuse, integrate BIM in conservation, and update curricula to bridge traditional craftsmanship with digital tools. By positioning cultural heritage as a driver of sustainability, this framework offers a replicable blueprint for reconciling urban growth with historical preservation.