Urban Recovery and Social Infrastructure in Homs, Syria: an integrated approach to reintegrating spatial and social structures

Abstract

For centuries, the city of Homs evolved into a vibrant urban center, but the armed conflict starting in 2011 caused devastating physical and social destruction. Current reconstruction efforts struggle to balance modern top-down planning with the preservation of heritage and social identity. To address this, this thesis examines international post-disaster recovery models to propose a morphological framework for reconstructing the historic urban fabric. Using the Bab Houd neighborhood as a case study. The project preserves traditional visual identity while introducing modern infrastructure and diverse housing styles to support returning families. Ultimately, this approach utilizes architecture and urban planning as vital tools for social reintegration and sustainable recovery in post-conflict historic cities.