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

Abstract

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 and a colonial villa in the avenue Allée des Pins. It reveals 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.