CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF THE IMPACT OF CONCRETE BUILDINGS ON URBAN AESTHETICS AND THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT: A CASE STUDY OF HERAT CITY

In recent decades, the city of Herat, as one of Afghanistan’s major historical and cultural cities, has experienced rapid and extensive growth in concrete-based construction. This study aims to examine the impacts of the expansion of concrete buildings on the visual aesthetics of the city and its environmental consequences. Data were collected through a 20-question interview questionnaire administered to experts in architecture, urban planning, and environmental studies. The findings indicate that the increasing use of concrete as the primary construction material has led to reduced harmony with the historical urban fabric, the emergence of monotonous and harsh architectural façades, and the weakening of Herat’s indigenous and traditional architectural identity.

On the other hand, the environmental consequences of this construction pattern include increased urban temperatures (urban heat island effect), reduction of green spaces, large-scale generation of construction waste, and high energy consumption. Based on qualitative and quantitative analyses, most experts believe that ineffective supervision, weaknesses in climate-responsive design, and the absence of sustainable development approaches are among the principal factors intensifying these challenges.

The paper concludes by proposing solutions such as utilizing alternative materials, implementing environmental policies in urban planning, and enhancing public awareness to improve architectural quality and preserve the urban environment.