Mediterranean Style Gated Communities Around the World: Architecture, Globalization and Transnational Elites

• In Event: 095 - Section on Community and Urban Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 15. Suburbs

Abstract

This paper will look at the use of “Mediterranean” architecture around the world as a component of transnational elite culture. Mediterranean style homes, mansions and villas are found in elite enclaves in Africa, Asia, North America and the Middle East. In particular, I will pay special attention to a gated community on the periphery of Istanbul, Turkey to discuss the commodification of this Mediterranean ideal. Covered in stucco and topped with red-tile roofs, they are more than a symbol of luxury. They are sites of conspicuous consumption in which the habitus of the super-rich is practiced (Veblen 2009). Bourdieu, drawing on Goffman states, habitus provides a “sense of one's place” (Bourdieu 1989:17). The habitus not only shapes one’s social position, but also shapes one’s built environment. It is part of a field that creates the creators – architects, designers, and developers – that constructs such spaces (Bourdieu 2003). While a great deal has been written on gated communities around the world, far less has been written on the façade that adorns these communities (Blakely and Snyder 1997; Caldeira 2001; Falzon 2004; Geniş 2007). Using a combination of first-hand observation and the analysis of promotional material from real estate developers, this paper will look at the creation and legitimization of “Mediterranean” architecture around the world.

Author

• Albert S. Fu, Kutztown University