ABSTRACT
The present research assesses the environmental response and adaption qualities and capacities of Arabic vernacular architecture in providing suitable thermal comfort, psychological needs, and preferences of inhabitants. The primary purpose is to analyse the features of traditional and modern architectures and assess which one suits better in the hot arid climatic condition in the Middle East. In particular, the research also purported to analyse how combinations of traditional techniques with modern technology can provide for a better thermal control inside the building. The research was carried out in two cities of Saudi Arabia; Riyadh and Al Madinah. In particular the chosen sites were Addiriyah, Landform house, and Al Madinah. The first and the last site provided the researcher with an insight into the traditional architectonic forms, while the Landform House depicted transitory or hybrid housing patterns.