Exploring Contemporary Cultural Buildings in Heritage Areas in Bahrain: Enhancing Visitor Experience Through Phenomenological Approaches

Cultural buildings within heritage areas, such as those in Bahrain, can significantly enhance visitor engagement and retention by incorporating multi-sensory experiences that authentically reflect traditional sensory and cultural environments. This study reveals that visitors disconnect from these sites when they lack opportunities to physically interact with the space—such as touching traditional walls, inhaling natural scents, or hearing ambient sounds—suggesting that phenomenological approaches can counteract declining interest. To address this, the research proposes integrating modern interpretive techniques with classic architectural elements to create vibrant, informative experiences. Employing a mixed-methods approach, it combines theoretical literature review and analytical study to explore visitor behavior and sensory engagement in cultural heritage sites.

(Ed.). (2025). Exploring Contemporary Cultural Buildings in Heritage Areas in Bahrain: Enhancing Visitor Experience Through Phenomenological Approaches. New Design Ideas, 9(2). https://doi.org/10.62476/ndi.92424