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Abstract

To a significant extent, Siwa architecture has been based on climate, geography, available materials, and cultural beliefs. The natural and cultural cycles are about to disappear in many desert vernacular settlements of the world, and in Siwa -Egypt as well. The main concern of this paper is to show the impact of development on society and the built environment, the conflict between man: his traditions, needs and expectations, and his surrounding environment that has become typical of today's life. The paper provides lessons learnt from the environmentally friendly case study buildings in Siwa, and give some suggestions to save desert vernacular architecture. The objective of this paper is to investigate the development of Siwa putting into consideration the space-time relationship. Main problems and constraints facing the future development of both are highlighted. The paper goes on to provide recommendations to ensure the sustainability of architectural development and its initiatives in Siwa and conclude the need for an integrated and comprehensive action plan in the field of cultural heritage preservation, socioeconomic development and basic infrastructure development.