Between Heritage and Community: Restoration of Heritage Projects in Bahrain through Participatory Design

Lana Ashkar

Abstract

In recent years, Bahrain’s heritage districts have gone through major urban transformations, especially through projects led by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquites (BACA) in areas such as Muharraq and the Pearling Path. These projects have successfully conserved Bahrain’s architectural identity while also attracting tourism and international recognition. However, despite the success of these developments, questions still remain regarding the role of local communities within the planning and design process of these heritage spaces. Today, architecture is moving beyond the idea of simply designing buildings towards creating spaces that respond to people, public life and community experience (Gehl, 2011). International frameworks such a Public Interest Design (PID), promoted by the American Institute of Architects, encourage architects to involve communities and consider the social impact of projects throughout the design process (AIA, 2014). Despite this growing emphasis on participation, community involvement within Bahrain’s heritage urban projects still appears limited and not formally integrated into professional practice frameworks (Government of Bahrain, 2014). This research explores the relationship between urban development and participatory design in Bahrain, focusing specifically on BACA-led projects. The paper investigates whether local communities are sufficiently involved in shaping these heritage environments and how participatory design approaches could improve experience publicly, urban identity and social connection in the heritage spots. The research adopts a qualitative methodology through literature review, comparative framework analysis, questionnaire-based assessment, and case study evaluation. Ultimately, the study aims to contribute to architectural professional practice in Bahrain by proposing more inclusive and socially responsive approaches towards heritage urban development.

Keywords:

Participatory Design, Heritage Regeneration, Cultural Identity, Public Interest Design, Community Participation.

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