Bahrain's next generation of skyscrapers should integrate local culture into their facades, according to a recent academic study, reinterpreting heritage through contemporary design and technology.
The study, titled ‘Traces of Local Identity in High Rise Building facades in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain’ was recently published as a chapter within a book titled ‘Resilient Urbanism: Architecture, Equity Innovation’.
The chapter was authored by University of Bahrain College of Engineering researchers Maryam Alfadhel and Islam Elghonaimy.
“This study aims to examine the current design trends in high-rise building facades in Manama, focusing on the integration of innovative technologies and sustainable practices that contribute to the development of a local identity,” researchers wrote in the report.
“Thus, the primary study question is – to what extent do those facades mediate the balance between local identity, innovation, and sustainability?”
Researchers examined how Manama’s skyline has evolved over the past four decades, amidst globalisation, rapid urban growth and changing real estate priorities.
The study argues that many contemporary facades have moved towards uniform, glass-heavy designs that risk weakening cultural identity and environmental responsiveness. To assess this shift, the authors developed a theoretical framework rooted in critical regionalism, a design approach that seeks to balance global architectural trends with local climate, culture and place.
This framework was then used to analyse selected high-rise buildings in Manama completed between 1980 and 2015, including United Gulf Bank, Alzamil Tower, Bahrain World Trade Centre and Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.
These case studies were chosen based on their location, design strategy, technological ambition and historical significance. The researchers also conducted a web-based questionnaire targeting architects and design professionals, most of whom were Bahrain-based and had more than 15 years of industry experience.
The survey explored perceptions of local identity in high-rise design, the impact of global architectural trends, and the role of technology in blending heritage with modernity. Findings suggest that culturally relevant facades need not rely on copying traditional forms, but can instead draw meaning from climate-responsive design, material choices, symbolism and how buildings interact with people at street level.
According to one of the study’s respondents, ‘expressing local architectural identity in high-rise buildings should not rely solely on treating facades with superficial architectural and decorative elements or imitating facade elements from old heritage buildings.
“Rather, this identity must emanate from the building’s correct architectural and functional design as an integrated unit,” the respondent added.
Approximately 30 per cent of those surveyed favoured a hybrid approach, blending traditional elements with modern materials and techniques.
“Beit Quran in Bahrain is a good example, as well as several contemporary mosques,” another respondent added.
As an example, the study highlights United Gulf Bank as an early example of culturally responsive high-rise design.
Its curved facade is inspired by traditional Bahraini fishing boats, or dhows, while green glass fins reference the colour of the Gulf’s waters.
The building also incorporates deep-set windows and pre-cast concrete lattices that echo vernacular heat-resistant walls and traditional shading devices. At street level, a shaded arcade reflects older urban traditions of pedestrian-friendly walkways.
Alzamil Tower, recognised with the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, transitions deliberately from heritage to modernity.
Its lower levels incorporate reinterpreted Islamic and Bahraini motifs that respond to the surrounding souq area, while the upper floors adopt a contemporary form using modern materials and curtain walling.
The twin towers and connecting bridge also function symbolically as a gateway to Manama’s historic core.
The Bahrain World Trade Centre’s sail-shaped towers draw inspiration from Bahrain’s maritime history and traditional wind towers, while the three skybridges with integrated wind turbines symbolise both sustainability and economic ambition.
The study notes that the turbines are not decorative, but generate a measurable portion, approximately 11 to 15pc of the building’s energy, reinforcing the idea that cultural reference and environmental performance can coexist.
The study recommends creating incentives for outstanding local designs, including tax breaks, expedited permitting, or bonus floor area ratios, to encourage more such designs.
It also suggests engaging with communities prior to urban development, promoting local identity through policy, professional awards for innovation, and a support for multidisciplinary research and education.
“By following these recommendations, cities can ensure that future high-rise buildings transcend their roles as mere symbols of economic growth,” researchers concluded.
“Instead, they become lasting landmarks – celebrating local heritage, addressing environmental challenges, and enriching the daily lives of urban residents.
“In this way, the skyline becomes a tapestry of stories, values, and aspirations unique to each place.”
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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