Espace Kazan

The iconic Tukay Square is situated in the heart of Kazan, east of Moscow. The site is located on a hill overlooking the Tukay Square.

Reconfirming the site as an extension of the public axis coming from Bauman Street forms the basic premise of the design. The steep topography is treated with a cut which leads the visitors towards the piazza on the top of the hill. The pedestrian axis along this cut creates a strong dialogue with the hill by means of a carved art gallery and an amphitheater planned at the natural form of the hill.

The preservation of the existing chestnut trees and the original silhouette was vital to reinforce the connection of the development to the surroundings. Retail and restaurant/bar units are now located around the piazza on top of the hill, and connect to a newly landscaped public realm, creating an active garden and street front.

Internally, the compound is set on multiple levels below the piazza; through terraces, skylights, interior courtyards, the building reinforces a dialogue and affirms the building as a ‘palace in the park’. The restaurants, cafes and retail units overlook the garden piazza, while the rear section is reserved for residence and office entrances.