Discover Inspiring Urban Renewal Projects Transforming Russian Cities

As part of the national 'Housing and Urban Environment' initiative, we highlight outstanding projects that have transformed Russian cities into more welcoming and comfortable places to live.

1. Krivyakino Estate in Voskresensk

Dating back to the late 17th century on the left bank of the Moscow River, the Krivyakino Estate’s main house stands as a rare architectural monument merging Baroque style with early Classicism elements, a unique find for the Moscow region. Over three centuries, it served various roles—from a noble family residence to a youth organization hub, workers' dormitory, kindergarten, and sanatorium.

Adjacent to this historic building, a charming urban park now features a majestic 200-year-old sprawling oak tree. Thanks to careful redevelopment, locals and tourists enjoy a modern sports area, a children's playground, welcoming gazebos with swings, rotundas, lush greenery, and stylish lighting.

The estate hosts creative workshops, quests, and festivals, becoming a favored spot for wedding photography and family leisure. It actively participates in the 'Winter in the Moscow Region' project, offering seasonal programs and guided tours announced through official websites and social media.

A quality urban environment encompasses clean courtyards, safe playgrounds, green parks, and cozy promenades. The national 'Housing and Urban Environment' program supports regional redevelopment efforts, annually enhancing thousands of public spaces and residential areas.

The initiative aims to boost the quality of Russia's urban spaces by 1.5 times by 2030 and increase cities with favorable living conditions from 26% in 2019 to 60% by 2024. Over 41,000 territories have been improved so far.

2. Gorky Park in Inza

This park revitalized a long-abandoned area formerly part of a diatomaceous earth plant. Local residents chose this site for rejuvenation, and in 2018, the redesign won a nationwide competition for best small-town urban renewal practices, securing federal funding. The upgrade included refurbished walkways, new lighting, greenery, a modern playground, sports facilities, a stage, and a photo zone. Designers incorporated the city’s emblem—the raspberry—into garden sculptures, adding local character.

3. Fountain Square in Penza

Established in 1979 with its iconic musical fountain, Penza’s Fountain Square had grown outdated by the early 2000s. The recent modernization introduced contemporary design elements, reconstructing the fountain and adding recreational and exhibition zones, pavilions with swings, and a children's area. The landscape was reimagined with new lighting and pedestrian paths.

For locals, the square is a vibrant social hub hosting concerts, celebrations, and gatherings. Summer evenings feature dazzling laser shows at the fountain, while winter visitors enjoy unique attractions like an artistic centaur sculpture, cozy cafes, and a cuckoo clock.

4. Decembrists Square in Stavropol

Located centrally and surrounded by educational institutions, Decembrists Square now features a workout complex, children's and sports playgrounds, all set on cushioned rubber flooring for safe exercise. A unique pedestrian fountain with a 42-meter bench enhances the space, while colorful designer lighting illuminates water jets in the evening. The square also boasts the city’s first inclusive playground, promoting accessibility.

This welcoming environment is perfect for family outings, pet walks, sports activities, or relaxing strolls with a coffee.

5. Akulovsky Water Canal Area in Korolyov

Once neglected, the area along the Akulovsky Canal has been transformed into a stylish urban space connecting Korolyov’s Central and Jubilee districts through a nearly 4.5-kilometer pedestrian route. The redevelopment introduced bike lanes, benches, lighting, romantic tree illumination, and a revitalized city pond with reinforced banks and a wooden promenade featuring lounge chairs.

Bike rental stations operate in summer, but the all-season pavement allows cycling year-round. New trees and shrubs were planted while preserving the original green areas, creating a harmonious natural escape.

6. Ignatievsky Square in Vladivostok

Initially slated for a supermarket, this area was saved by community efforts and redesigned with residents' input. The renovated square now offers benches, a cozy canopy, and a 'city garden' with planter boxes where locals can cultivate plants. Sports facilities and free Wi-Fi enhance usability, while inclusive design ensures wheelchair accessibility with ramps and gentle slopes throughout.

7. Square near Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Volgograd

Following the 2021 restoration of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the adjacent square was developed into a serene park space surrounded by Volgograd’s cultural landmarks. Visitors enjoy benches, shaded areas, lounge chairs, bike paths and parking, as well as an illuminated flat fountain.

Energy-efficient lighting brightens the area at night, complemented by neon-lit benches. The park features young currant bushes, rowan and apple saplings, flower-lined alleys, free Wi-Fi, and comprehensive video surveillance for safety.

8. Sports Park in Tosno

Once a favored training spot that had fallen into disrepair, Tosno’s sports park was revitalized into a dynamic cluster attracting athletes from across the Leningrad region. Facilities now include a skate park, ping-pong tables, parkour and workout zones, a pump track, and multiple sports areas. The fountain was refurbished, lawns and benches restored, and new trees planted.

Beautiful public spaces can flourish in small towns as well as big cities. The national 'Housing and Urban Environment' project holds competitions specifically for towns with populations under 100,000 and historic settlements. To date, over 260 winning projects have been implemented. The 2021 competition, the fifth of its kind, selected 160 finalists from 65 regions.

Discover more inspiring urban renewal projects that are shaping the future of Russian cities and communities.

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