The influence of natural and cultural environment on the fabric of the city, with special reference to Iraq.

The magical words 'protection' and 'leisure' convey the
two concepts which together were responsible for shaping Man's
shelter and settlement in the pre-industrial city, in such a way
as to accommodate, whatever his estate, the individual's varied
physical and biological requirements, within an environmental
framework and the constraints of available natural resources.
Since the Industrial Revolution sophisticated technology
has increased Manis capacity for protection and leisure which has
changed the dimensions of his lifestyle and become the dominant
influence on the quality of life. However, the significance of
technological advancement has extended far beyond this, especially
in situations where it has been uncritically imported, without
adaptation, often creating discord within the host community. This
conflict will be the focal point of the thesis, which itself
represents an attempt more closely to juxtapose the needs of Man
and his environment with the tools of advanced technology, in order
to achieve a pleasant and satisfactory urban fabric.
This thesis commences with an historical analysis of
different consecutive civilizations within a single context, in
order better to understand Man's attempts at creating an environment
fitted to his needs. It is followed by a consideration of the
nature of human form and its capacity to adapt to change, together
with an examination of the characteristics of the surrounding
natural environment, the attendant natural and cultural resources,
and Man's efforts to control and utilize them.
The theoretical foundation has been developed through
experimental studies and empirical research by case studies in
Iraq. A detailed case study of urban fabric in Baghdad has
analysed both traditional and modern housing areas. This analysis
is also brought into a broader national perspective by further case
analyses in different regions of Iraq. The case studies were
carried out through personal observations and measurements, and
an interview survey in Baghdad with a multi-phase random sample of
300 households.
The assessments and conclusions from the case studies are
used as a basis for a set of design principles and guides for
future urban design in Iraq.