How decisions are made: Urban and architectural transformations of a modern residential district in Baghdad (1958-2024)

Abstract

The article identifies the main decisions, acts and processes that contributed to the development of a modern residential district of Baghdad, Zayouna, between 1958 and 2024. While the majority of existing literature on contemporary Baghdad focuses on traditional architecture, landmark buildings and planning documents prepared by foreign consultants, less is known about the urban and architectural transformations of its modern residential neighborhoods. The article addresses this gap by proposing an analytical framework that draws from the structuration theory of Anthony Giddens and investigates interaction between the top-down decision-making and bottom-up initiatives that led to transformations in house design and urban situation. The resultant model shows a shift in the orientation and character of these transformations: from the dominant role of top-down decision-making until the mid-1980s to the increasing impact of bottom-up initiatives due to the deteriorating economic situation and the weakened ability of state institutions to invest in housing and enforce regulations. The article is based on qualitative research conducted between January 2024 and March 2025 that included literature review, interviews with Iraqi experts in architecture and urban planning, and archival research.