Architecture and urban space are increasingly viewed as strategic instruments for national development—they shape the quality of life, cultural identity, and international perception of the country. In Azerbaijan, this approach is particularly important amid the large-scale transformations of recent decades, as cities become platforms for rethinking historical heritage and exploring contemporary forms of development.

It is symbolic that, according to the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, 2026 has been declared the "Year of Urban Development and Architecture" in the country. This decision underscores the state's understanding of the role of architecture not only as an aesthetic discipline but also as an important factor in social, economic, and cultural progress. This context is further enhanced by the fact that this same year marks the 900th anniversary of Ajami Nakhchivani, a prominent master of medieval architecture whose legacy became the foundation of the national architectural school and continues to influence professional thinking today.

AZERTAC presents an exclusive interview with Spanish architect, urbanist, and researcher Vicente Guallart, one of the leading international experts in the fields of sustainable urban planning, digital cities, and strategic territorial development.

- How do you assess the development of architecture and urban planning in Azerbaijan in the post-Soviet period?

- I visited Baku in 2017, at a moment when I was teaching in Moscow at the Higher School of Economics, and shortly after completing my period as Chief Architect of Barcelona. This context shaped my perspective as both an academic and a practitioner working internationally on urban transformation.

My impression of Baku was that of a city with a strong will to improve its urban environment, both for its residents and for visitors. There was visible investment in public spaces, infrastructure, and contemporary architecture, aimed at enhancing everyday urban life as well as the city’s international presence.

From my position as an external observer, I perceived a clear intention to use architecture and urban planning as tools to connect the city to global cultural and professional conversations, while continuing to define its own urban identity over time.

- How do you assess the initiative to establish a “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” from the perspective of the international professional community? What topics should be emphasized in the media?

- From an international professional perspective, dedicating a year to urban planning and architecture is a very positive initiative. It reflects an understanding that cities, territories, and the built environment are strategic assets for social well-being, economic innovation, and cultural development.

This initiative should go beyond celebrating architecture as a discipline and encourage public debate about the role of cities today. Topics such as the quality of public space, housing, sustainability, climate adaptation, mobility, and the relationship between heritage and contemporary design are particularly relevant. It is also important to communicate how urban planning directly affects daily life and contributes to long-term resilience and inclusivity.

- How can contemporary Azerbaijani architectural and urban planning projects be integrated into the global information space?

- Integration into the global information space depends on visibility, clarity, and connection. Contemporary projects need to be presented through international platforms such as exhibitions, biennials, conferences, academic networks, and specialized media. Equally important is to frame these projects within broader global discussions, allowing international audiences to understand their relevance and context.

Digital communication plays a central role today. Strong visual narratives, accessible storytelling, and consistent online presence can significantly increase international impact. In parallel, collaboration with international universities, research institutions, and architectural studios helps situate local projects within a global exchange of ideas rather than as isolated examples.

- What steps would you recommend Azerbaijan to take to strengthen its presence on the global architectural map?

- Based on my experience leading the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia, working closely with young generations, international cooperation, and globally connected research and practice, I believe that a strong architectural presence is built through continuity rather than singular gestures.

Investing in education, research, and emerging professionals is fundamental, as it creates long-term capacity and cultural depth. Supporting experimental and pilot projects allows cities and territories to test new ideas in sustainability, materials, digital tools, and urban systems. At the same time, fostering international collaboration—through academic exchanges, open competitions, and cultural initiatives—helps connect local practices to global networks.

Ultimately, positioning cities as places of innovation, dialogue, and quality of life enables architecture and urban planning to contribute meaningfully to international conversations about the future of cities.