University of Babylon scholar and sociologist Hamza al-Kuraishi told Al-Monitor, “Most Iraqis lack proper knowledge about restoration techniques. Buildings are neglected for dozens of years, and all of a sudden they are demolished and replaced by new ones. Iraq lacks an artistic or architectural authority able to set standards. In addition, municipalities do not adopt stringent requirements for the construction of new buildings. Laws protecting architectural heritage do exist but are ineffective and not adhered to.”
Heritage landmarks adorned with decorations, stars and rococo balconies were mercilessly razed from Iraqi cities as a result of unregulated destruction practices. For instance, in 2014, the 87-year-old Ishtar Theater was demolished and replaced by modern buildings with contemporary facades.
Regarding this criticism, decoration technician Adnan Hussein, owner of the Adnan Bureau for Design and Decor in the west Hamza neighborhood south of Hillah, described “cobond” sheets as “thin panels of flexible aluminum used on building facades.” Hussein seemed unconcerned with the call to preserve Iraqi heritage and maintain its historic character.
He told Al-Monitor, “Preserving heritage landmarks is not the responsibility of my bureau.” He opined that the popularity of “cobond” panels was possibly because of it being “low cost, easy to affix and with the capability of giving buildings aesthetic appeal through the use of eye-catching colors.”
In an interview with Al-Monitor, civil engineer Jameel Mozan focused on the positive aspects of the new facade cladding technology, which is easy to “clean and maintain.” He said, “The ‘cobond’ technique has become prevalent in many countries of the world, because it offers effective solutions to the problems of pollution and the accumulation of dirt on building facades.”
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