Abstract
This thesis investigates the living spaces of Libyan immigrants in England, situating their experiences within the broader Arab Muslim context. While existing scholarship has extensively examined migration and diaspora communities in Europe, the spatial practices, and cultural meanings of ‘home’ among Libyan immigrants remain underexplored. By addressing this gap, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of how cultural, religious, and social values shape domestic spaces in the context of migration. Focusing on Sheffield and Manchester, the research analyses how cultural traditions, social challenges, and neighbourhood dynamics influence the everyday lived experiences of Libyan immigrants across both private and public domains. Drawing on participants’ accounts, the research examines housing practices, interior arrangements, and the use of public spaces, highlighting the influence of cultural identity on everyday life. Findings indicate that strong attachment to tradition and heritage plays a central role in the organisation and decoration of Libyan homes, often serving as a means of preserving cultural continuity in the diaspora. At the same time, interactions with local neighbourhoods and public spaces reveal tensions between cultural preservation and adaptation to new social environments. By analysing the interplay between housing, culture, and social conditions, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how Libyan immigrants negotiate belonging, identity, and community in contemporary England.Data were gathered through a mixed-methods approach, including 17 semi-structured interviews and 314 questionnaires. This triangulated method offered a deep understanding of housing practices, cultural attachments, and meanings linked to living spaces. The results show that cultural traditions continue to play a key role in how Libyan immigrants in England decorate and organise their homes. Interestingly, despite living far from Libya, participants often displayed a stronger commitment to traditional values than those still in the country, where living arrangements tend to be more open to Western influences. Additionally, the study finds that home setups not only express cultural heritage but also reflect personal desires, interests, and social identities, connecting memory and tradition with everyday life in the host country.
| Date of Award | 2 Feb 2026 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Supervisor | Yun Gao (Main Supervisor) & Danilo Di Mascio (Co-Supervisor) |