Architectural exchanges within the construction of the new Silk Roads: Transcultural dynamics in Gwadar, Pakistan, and Djibouti

Abstract

Amid the shifting dynamics of global urbanization, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has emerged as a major force reshaping transnational architectural exchanges and development paradigms. This study explores the transcultural architectural exchanges facilitated by BRI through an analysis of projects in Gwadar, Pakistan, and Djibouti. By examining the Pakistan–China Friendship Hospital, the Pakistan–China Friendship Vocational Training Institute, and the National Library and Archive of Djibouti, this article reveals how architectural practices under the BRI negotiate between Chinese modern technological capabilities and local cultural contexts. Using the theoretical frameworks of transcultural dynamics, enriched by the concepts of “contact zones” and “third space,” this study reveals the dynamic interactions and cultural exchanges among several factors in shaping these architectural endeavors. The research highlights the complexities of integrating global design strategies with local traditions and the impact of these hybrid architectural forms on local communities and urban environments. The findings emphasize the need for a more in-depth investigation into the dynamics of designing and constructing architectural artifacts and the underlying rationale behind adopting different transcultural schemes. Ultimately, this study contributes to the discourse on global architectural mobilities, offering insights into how architecture serves as a diplomatic tool and a platform for cultural exchange in different regions shaped by processes of urban development.

Keywords

Transculturalism / Contact zones / Belt and road initiative / China / Architecture / Collaboration

Acknowledgments

None.

Funding

This paper is part of a research project funded by the Italian Minister of University and Research (MUR), titled Rescaling the BRI: urbanization processes, innovation patterns and global investments in urban China (Grant no. 2017P8C4B2). The research involves scholars from the Polytechnic University of Turin (architects, planners, economists, and political geographers) and the University of Macerata (urban economists and experts in Chinese philosophy and culture).

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no competing interests.

Author contributions

Conceptualization: All authors Investigation: Sohrab Marri Visualization: Sohrab Marri Writing – original draft: Sohrab Marri Writing – review & editing: All authors

Ethics approval and consent to participate

Not applicable.

Consent for publication

Not applicable.

Availability of data

The data supporting the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request. Due to the nature of some qualitative and location-based datasets, certain restrictions may apply to protect confidentiality and comply with institutional review board (IRB) guidelines. Where possible, anonymized excerpts or aggregate results can be shared to facilitate further research.

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