Abstract
<jats:p xml:lang="en">The development of microdistricts in Sumgait, Azerbaijan, during the 1960s marked a pivotal shift in urban planning, reflecting broader Soviet trends. These residential complexes, larger and more integrated than traditional block structures, aimed to optimize living conditions through functional zoning and the strategic placement of educational and recreational facilities. This study examines the planning, infrastructure, and architectural nuances of Sumgait’s early microdistricts, focusing on their innovative design principles, challenges, and legacy.Key planning features included the row alignment of residential buildings, semi-enclosed courtyards, and central locations for schools and gardens, which promoted community cohesion and functional integration. However, the lack of fencing and the dispersed placement of service facilities highlighted shortcomings, including inefficient land use and delayed infrastructure development. Moreover, the absence of coordinated parking solutions and the proliferation of individual garages and cars disrupted the intended harmony of green spaces and pedestrian safety.Comparative analyses with practices in other Soviet and European cities underscore the evolving balance between residential needs and service systems. Recommendations emphasize integrated placement of service facilities, cooperative design of public institutions, and innovative parking solutions to enhance urban living standards. By addressing these issues, Sumgait’s microdistricts could serve as models for sustainable urban development, aligning with contemporary principles of efficiency, green construction, and community-oriented design.</jats:p>