
Research project:
Preserving Cultural Heritage of Refugee Communities for Inclusive and Cohesive Communities: A Case Study of Syrian Refugees in Al-Balad, Amman’s Historic Centre
Project description:
Amid rising global displacement, Syrian refugees in Jordan face profound challenges in preserving their cultural heritage. My research explores how displacement alters gender-related intangible cultural heritage among Syrian refugees in Al-Balad, Amman’s historic centre. Using a qualitative case study approach, I examined refugees’ adaptive strategies related to social interactions, and spatial modifications through semi-structured interviews, guided tours, and behavioural mapping.
My research highlights the deep interplay between tangible and intangible heritage, emphasizing the role of social structures, gendered adaptations, and spatial preferences in sustaining cultural identity. Consequently, my investigation underscores the need for inclusive urban policies that integrate refugee heritage, fostering social cohesion and resilience in host cities.
Researcher biography:
Shatha holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Jordan. Her Master’s dissertation focused on enhancing the liveability of commercial streets by examining the relationship between streetscape elements and social interaction.
Shatha has six years of academic teaching experience in architecture departments at various universities in Jordan, including the University of Jordan and Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan.
During her teaching career, she collaborated with local and regional architects, enhancing her architectural and pedagogical skills. In addition to academia, Shatha gained practical experience working with architecture and construction companies in Jordan. She has also completed specialized training in Revit BIM and ArcGIS, further strengthening her technical expertise.
Research interests:
My research interests focus on the intersection of architectural and urban environments with cultural and social life, examining how spatial design both influences and is influenced by cultural practices, social structures, and community interactions. I am particularly interested in how refugees and migrants adapt and negotiate urban spaces to preserve their cultural heritage and foster social cohesion across different contexts. Additionally, my research explores the processes of place attachment in cities, investigating how displaced communities create and sustain meaningful connections to their built environments.
Principal Supervisor:
Dr. Kelly Greenope
Publications:
The role of streetscape elements in enhancing the liveliness of commercial street in Amman
Energy Performance Analysis of Passive Design Strategies for the Green Affordable Homes Project in Jordan
Contact Email:
uqsaloda@uq.edu.au