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BABIL, Iraq — As soon as merchant Ali Hussein had finished erecting his store at Najaf's "Big Market," 160 kilometers (99 miles) south of Baghdad, construction and decoration experts recommended that he cover the front with colored plastic decorative cladding. This reflects the new and popular phenomenon permeating modern building practices in Najaf, and leading to the old market losing its architectural heritage, with most of its commercial properties undergoing chaotic renovation.
Hussein told Al-Monitor of his acquiescence to the experts' advice by saying that the new architectural design style “adds elegance and a modern feel to the place, which attracts customers.”
