Community-Centric Architectural Design for Stray Animal Shelters in Bahrain: Redesigning Spaces for Human-Animal Interaction and Cultural Engagement

Abstract

Overcrowding, underfunded nature and low adoption rates pose a challenge to stray animal shelters in Bahrain which may have devastating effects on animal welfare and community engagement (Nagel, 2018; Weisser & Hauck, 2024). This study introduces community-centric architecture design as a solution to solve the problem by reflecting upon Humane Architecture, Biophilic Design, Place making, Environmental Psychology to change public perceptions, instill empathy and enhance animal welfare (Applebaum et al., 2021; Rupprecht & Grimm, 2025). The paper used a mixed methods methodology using semi structured interviews, focus groups, and observational case studies to determine stakeholder perspectives and spatial dynamics (Boone et al., 2021; Creswell & Plano Clark, 2018). Best practice from comparative case studies are applied to Bahrain appropriately. The study also responds to Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 11) and advocates for the shift of a paradigm from isolationist sheltering to the integrated and community driven public spaces.