The Social Role of Rooftops in Dense Neighborhoods. An Analysis of Daily Urban Practices in Amman

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Residential rooftops in dense urban neighborhoods are increasingly recognized as multifunctional spaces that reflect the adaptability of residents in navigating spatial constraints and cultural traditions. This study aims to understand the social role of residential rooftops as an intermediate layer between public and private residential spheres in Jabal Al Ashrafieh. The research focuses on how inhabitants utilize, perceive, and socially construct these spaces in terms of production and social construction of theories on spatial use. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines qualitative insights into how rooftops form a social and spatial pattern of Amman’s urban life with quantitative analysis of usage frequency. Findings suggest that rooftops are mostly used as social spaces. Rooftops are essential social spaces, shaped by both tangible physical factors – such as the spatial setting, type of residential units, and the lack of open spaces like balconies or courtyards (with 42% of buildings lacking both) – and intangible social factors related to traditions and daily practices. More than half of the buildings whose residents use the rooftops as social spaces are multi-storey apartment blocks, but in most cases, this use is facilitated by the familial connections among the residents - in 77.5% of those buildings most residents are relatives, highlighting the role of familial connections in shaping usage. Social activities on rooftops are categorized into four main types: gathering and leisure activities (65%), environmental activities (18%), and service activities (17%), with gathering activities being the most prevalent. These findings highlight the importance of rooftops as vital extensions of living space, addressing both the social and spatial needs of urban residents. Future research could explore how these practices evolve within the broader context of urban development.