Terraces

Terraces are flat or gently sloping steps cut into a hillside or formed on a slope to create usable space, reduce erosion, and manage water. They are typically supported by retaining walls that hold back soil on the upslope side and create level platforms.

In agriculture, terraces convert steep terrain into arable land. They slow runoff, prevent soil loss, and help distribute water across a field. Construction commonly involves stone, earth, or concrete, with drainage channels to carry away excess water. Rice terraces are among the most well-known examples, featuring irrigated steps that follow the contours of a hillside. Terracing is also used in dry farming regions to conserve soil moisture.

Design and materials vary by region. Stone-walled terraces are common in mountainous and Mediterranean climates, while earthen or reinforced concrete terraces appear in newer projects. Proper drainage, wall stabilization, and soil management are essential to maintain stability and productivity over time.

In architecture and landscape design, terraces function as outdoor rooms and garden levels, providing usable space, viewpoints, and microclimate control on sloped sites. Rooftop and balcony terraces extend this concept to buildings. In urban contexts, terraced housing refers to row or linked houses arranged along a continuous façade, often creating a stepped streetscape and shared walls.

Historically, terracing has ancient origins in many regions, including the Andes, Southeast Asia, and Europe, where it supported agriculture and settlement in challenging terrains. While terraces can enhance land productivity and resilience, they require ongoing maintenance to prevent wall failures and soil instability.