Formation of ethno centers in a sustainable urban structure in Azerbaijan

Abstract

The declaration of 2026 as the «Year of Urban Planning and Architecture» by the relevant Decree of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev is an expression of a strategic state policy aimed at the sustainable development of cities in the country, the protection of historical heritage, the application of modern architectural principles and the acceleration of reconstruction and construction works in the territories liberated from occupation.

The main directions and objectives of the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” reflect priorities based on the preservation of the rich architectural traditions of Azerbaijan and the protection of historical and cultural heritage, the restoration and development of the liberated territories, international cooperation, and the creation of a sustainable environment.

This decision not only stimulates development in the field of urban planning and architecture, but also strengthens the national solidarity and ideals of statehood of our people. The holding of the World Urban Planning Forum (WUF13) in Baku in 2026 and the application of international practices to the country are a clear example of international cooperation. The creation of functional settlements based on green energy and ecological balance, focused on the human factor, is a manifestation of the development of a sustainable environment.

Today, the socio-economic development strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan identifies ensuring balanced development of the capital and regions and promoting sustainable settlement, as well as compliance with the United  Nations Sustainable Development Goals, as priority areas of architectural and urban planning activities.

Also, the application of innovative ideas in architecture, the development of modern, innovative projects, as well as the promotion and expansion of the application of progressive approaches that respond to new challenges in this field in the country are among the main issues [2].

The practical realization and application of new ideas, discoveries, or inventions in sustainable urban planning and regional planning requires a modern approach in architecture.In this direction, buildings distinguished by their modern, transparent and citizen-oriented architectural style, such as «Asan Service» and DOST (Agency For Sustainable and Operative Social Provision) centers, are being built in various regions of Azerbaijan. Glass facades, a wide open environment, accessibility and minimalist design form the basis of these buildings. This architectural concept supports the principles of service quality, innovative management, citizen satisfaction and inclusiveness.

At the same time, in the current period, there is a great need to create ethnocenters for the organization and development of cultural heritage in various economic regions of Azerbaijan. For this purpose, many projects that meet the requirements of the modern era have been implemented. The sketch projects of the complexes, which are presented as examples of modern architecture, take into account all the features that glorify the ethnoculture of the region in which they will be located and are considered beneficial from both a cultural and economic perspective.

The second stage after the construction is to bring attention to the surrounding environment of the complexes and create small recreational areas around them. These recreational areas may consist of cafes and teahouses serving national cuisine, small parks and souvenir kiosks. The area of these complexes may vary between 3000-9000 m2, depending on their function.