The traditional architectural styles in Aseer Province, located southwest of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, vary depending on the environment in which they are found and the needs of its inhabitants. Aseer Province is divided into four architectural styles based on the geographical nature of the province, with each style having its own environmental characteristics and architectural designs, as follows:
The mud style in the interior plateau region consists of multi-story buildings, typically two stories, and sometimes three or four. Their exteriors are adorned with slightly raised mud decorations, and their upper walls are embellished with balconies or "sky dolls" for decoration.
The stone style in the Asdar region uses abundant basalt rocks found in the area to construct and shape its buildings, giving them a distinct appearance of strength and durability. These structures are commonly located on valley floors near water sources, agricultural lands, and mountain slopes.
The mud-stone style in the Sarat Highlands consists of a stone foundation that rises between one and two m, with the rest of the structure built from mud. Alternatively, the first floor is constructed with stones, while the remaining floors are made of mud reinforced with stone slabs. The design resembles the method used in mud buildings, with the base being wider than the top.
The plant-based style, known as "al-Ishash,"in the Tihama plain is widespread in Tihama due to the ease of construction near farms, valleys, and hills. These buildings are constructed in a pyramidal shape with high roofs, using insulating materials to protect against the province's heat and high humidity.
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