The Trilogy of Heritage, Public Art and Public Spaces: The Case of Fire Station Art and Cultural Development, Doha, Qatar

Abstract

The chapter analyses an interesting case of heritage preservation which led to creating one of the most unique and vibrant urban, public and creative spaces in the city of Doha, the Capital of the State of Qatar. The chapter focuses on the multi-layered urban condition that was generated in the city as a result of an unprecedented integration between positive public and green spaces, rehabilitated architectural heritage and public art. This trilogy as manifested in the urban fabric of Doha, provided the city with a new interpretation of the holistic role of the public space as magnet for people’s gathering and existential expressions if planned not as a mere recreational space but as an opportunity to exhibit the sophistication of the community. The chapter concludes with a framework constructs a vision for public spaces in Qatar and other Gulf cities which are in dire need to revisit the concept of public spaces, urban diversity, assembling identity, particularly in such a turmoil times of uncertainty resulted from tough economic pressures due to the decreased oil prices and the COVID-19 unfolding consequences.