Building and living in Tlemcen (Algeria). From the traditional house to the colonial villa

Abstract

[EN] Domestic architecture in the city of Tlemcen knew changes in architectural design and construction techniques over time, from prehistoric times, through the succession of Islamic dynasties, the colonial era and the current period. Individual housing during the colonial period was marked by the transition from the traditional patio house to suburban housing and individual villas with courtyards and gardens. A comparative study was carried out of a traditional Ottoman house in Bab El Hadid district and a colonial villa in the avenue Allée des pins, through a historical, architectural and technical approach. Based on field research and compilation of historical background by involving data collection, bibliographical research, archive consultation, site visits, architectural surveys and interviews with the occupants, and presenting the historical context, an architectural and a technical analysis of the materials and construction processes used in the two houses. This article aims to reveal two architectural styles from two different eras, designed for two populations with different lifestyles, and highlights the traditional and modern construction techniques and materials used.