Unpacking Flatness

Amidst the expansive desert terrain, where horizons extend endlessly, lies an urban challenge: how does urbanism start in this Flat where there is no distinction between what is within and beyond the boundary? This exploration delves into intricacies beyond urbanism’s conventions. It begins by questioning flatness’ ontological essence, perceiving it not merely as a spatial attribute, but as an abstract concept. It probes the interplay of form and materiality, interrogating whether flatness is a formative attribute or is a quality nestled within the materiality of spatial creation.

Navigating the ontological depths of flatness in the Arabian Desert, the study confronts cities adhering to rigid gridiron models, limiting response to the unique changeable morphology of its context. This formal exploration develops an urban strategy from the distinctive qualities of the Dahana Desert, Saudi Arabia, and it evolves around socio-spatial aspects forming earlier vernacular urban conditions. It encompasses material constraints such as form and substance, and intangible social dimensions, blurring boundaries between existing and emerging elements within this Flat realm.