Description
Book SynopsisBattle for HomeNew York TimesAl-Sabouni?s deep understanding of Middle Eastern heritage and architecture gives her insight into a wide range of cities, informing her views on how cities work best, how they might fail, and what can be done to harmonize the lives of all their inhabitants.In this compelling new book, al-Sabouni draws together several narratives: her personal and professional observations of some of the world?s most fascinating cities, from Detroit to Helsinki; the lessons that Western societies might learn from Islamic culture and design; and philosophical reflections on how our personal and communal spaces can provide the basic foundations for happiness. Through this tapestry of personal experience, unblinking perspective, and insight, al-Sabouni offers real-world solutions?and hope?for how peace might be created through mindful urban planning.
Trade Review'An important new book. Writing from one of the most difficult places [Marwa al-Sabouni] not only illuminates our learning about Syria – her home – but about cities around the world. Whether reflecting on the meaning of home or of hope, Marwa is an essential writer for our times' - Andrew Kelly, Director, Bristol Festival of Ideas
'Remarkable' - i News
'[Offers] a crumb of hope not just for Syria, but for the world, on how to build a better future through inclusive architecture … a powerfully argued analysis of how we in the so-called “developed” world are slowly but surely destroying our societies by selling out our homes, our natural habitats, to big business elites who have no interest in us or our needs' - Diana Darke, Times Literary Supplement
'Ambitious ... It’s especially enlightening to read about Western cities through the lens of an architect specializing in Islamic traditions ... What’s for certain is we need more people – more architects, more writers – like Marwa al-Sabouni: global citizens with a sharp eye for detail and an unwavering, deeply ethical commitment to the places they call home. Building for Hope is dense and daring. Readers will finish with a list of people and places to investigate, as well as with a firm belief that a better future lies in valuing community over ostentation, coherence and decency over luxury, truly liveable cities over places designed purely for profit' - World-Architects.com
'Interesting ... includes intelligent philosophical discussions ... written in a clear and kind language' - Aref Al-Hajjawi
