UNStudio won its submission for 31 Krzhizhanovskogo Street that marries cultural relevance with modern amenities. The competition was by Citymakers for project developer Glavstroy for a residential complex in Moscow that incorporates the heritage of the region.
The community-focused architectural concept is designed for 31 Krzhizhanovskogo Street (K31 Courtyard). It uses architectural elements to create natural gathering spaces. Formerly an industrial area, the city approved a new masterplan in 2012, resulting in a rapid increase of residential housing in the area.
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Although this means the area is benefitting from a modern brushstroke, UNStudio placed an emphasis on historical elements. This could be seen in the brick and black metal exterior on the podium façade that resembles other buildings in the area, while speaking to the industrial elements of the region’s past. Other portions of the building impart a translucence with expansive windows that allow the upper levels to blend into the sky, rather than creating a blockade.
“The inner façade of the courtyard employs a similar lightness to the tower volumes, with natural wood creating a strong connection to the green, tree-planted courtyard and a warm and comfortable atmosphere for the residents,” said UNStudio.
In addition to multi-use housing, the complex includes a kindergarten, fitness center, commercial spaces, underground parking and a park in the courtyard. These components address the modern challenges of creating sustainable communities in a Megalopolis. Similarly, building up instead of across provides more housing with minimal site impact.
K31 Courtyard hopes to stand as an example for future developments that are similarly aimed at a residents-first approach. In addition to the courtyard, landing pads on each level provide gathering spaces indoors and outdoors, along with areas for greenhouses, plants and urban gardens.
The placement of the towers around the courtyard and the stepped terraces were designed to provide maximum views and natural light to the interior of the apartments.
The apartments themselves offer a variety of styles to suit the needs of small or large families. This is a central element in the concept of making the complex a neighborhood within itself that is also centrally-located and adjacent to pedestrian routes nearby.
Images via MARTA Pictures & ZOA 3D
