This thesis examines the potential of strategic urban design in reimagining of borders
within contested territories of Palestine, using the village of Al-Walaja, located between Jerusa
lem and Bethlehem, as a case study.
The study begins with a theoretical and historical overview of borders terminology, purpose, their
evolution from natural divides to artificial barriers, and their multifaceted nature in shaping urban
environments, the research draws a framework of borders roles at different Models of Exclusion,
Marginalization, and Integration in Urban Design and Planning.
The study further delves into the complex segregation system in Palestine, examining the borders
shifting over time with control of these borders at levels of land, airspace and maritime. Delving
deeper to the physical elements of urban closure regime in both West bank and Gaza Strip, be
side other administrative mechanisms of control that are used to control and restrict movement, in
response, this research proposes a multiscale urban design strategies to reconnect the fragment
ed landscapes of Palestine. First at Macro-Scale at the national level where the strategy relies on
capturing an image of a historical era where the lands were connected and re-bringing the otto
man railway as a major connection and movement element back to function again, beside a new
route of key urban nodes and corridors in different cities that enhance the connectivity between
the old network and a new one. At the meso level, the focus shifts to Al-Walaja itself as a case
study, proposing urban interventions that aim to reconnect the town with the surrounding urban
fabric within the historical borders of the town. At the micro level, the design introduces a proto
type connection node that is based in the reconnection the fragmented lands which integrates
a comprehensive visualizing of a post-wall landscape where the previously divided landscapes
can restore connectivity and accessibility offering a comprehensive masterplan of the region that
integrates various programmatic zones to serve different community needs.
This thesis offers a new perspective on urban design in conflict zones, advocating for an approach
that is sensitive to cultural heritage, identity and sustainability. It presents Al-Walaja as a prototype
for reimagining the role of urban spaces in fostering connection.
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