Why are "retaining walls" integral in construction?

Retaining walls play a crucial role in construction primarily by providing structural support against soil pressure. These walls are designed to resist the lateral pressure of soil when there is a change in elevation, such as in hilly or sloping terrains. Without retaining walls, the soil could shift or erode, potentially leading to instability or failure of the surrounding structures.

By containing soil and preventing it from collapsing onto lower areas, retaining walls allow for the safe and effective use of land across different elevations. This is particularly important in both residential and commercial developments where managing site grade and ensuring the integrity of foundations are necessary.

While retaining walls can certainly contribute to the aesthetics of landscaping, their primary function is not aesthetic but functional, serving to protect buildings and infrastructure from soil-related issues. They are also not universally required for all urban developments or designed to control indoor temperatures, which pertains to different construction and architectural elements.