Independent design, environment and energy consultancy LDA Design, has won an international tender for the multi-million pound transformation of the historic 300 acre (120 ha) Gorky Park in Moscow.
The UK-based practice – which was responsible for the parkland design at the London 2012 Olympic Park – was chosen from a shortlist of 20 international firms after lengthy deliberations by the project board, which included representatives of Moscow City Heritage Department, Moscow Kremlin Museums, the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection, and ‘Strelka’ the Institute for Media, Architecture and Design. The judging panel was particularly impressed with LDA Design’s approach and track record in combining the restoration of a park’s heritage assets with new sensitive new design and the ability to develop new parks and green public spaces.
Gorky Park is located on the south side Russia’s capital and was inaugurated in 1928. Named after writer Maxim Gorky, the park quickly became famous for being an outstanding model of avant-garde architecture. It stretches along the banks of the Moscow River and is divided into two main parts – the Neskuchny Garden which dates back to 1753, and the ‘Parterre’, which dates back to the All Russia Handicraft and Agricultural Exhibition held in 1923.
There are also a number of old buildings dating from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, including two summerhouses by the great Moscow architect Mikhail Kazakov, who also designed the Senate Building in the Kremlin, and the first City Hospital.
Andrei Batalov, Deputy Director of the Moscow Kremlin Museums, praised the bid winner, noting that LDA Design was one of the few practices that made reference to ‘restoration’ and ‘heritage’ in their bids.
Andrew Harland, Senior Partner at LDA Design, said: “Our aim is to transform Gorky Park so that it becomes an emblem of Moscow, projecting the best of the city to the rest of the world, while being one of the top destinations for Muscovites in their leisure time.
“Our approach is to understand and respect its history, yet at the same time modernise and bring a new vitality that makes it a major cultural focus for the city.”
Moscow Park Authority has invested heavily in Gorky Park in recent times, with the restoration of several of its historic buildings and the introduction of Wi-Fi in the park. In December 2011, a 15,000 sq m ice rink, with separate zones for children, hockey, dancing, and general skating, was officially opened.
The forthcoming strategy is intended to tackle wider issues, not only of an overall design vision, but also improving its management and maintenance. The vision is also set to address the ‘softer’ side of the park’s operations, including the activities and services that will be provided for its visitors.
LDA Design will be carrying out the overall strategy in the next few months, which will form the basis of public and expert consultation and guide the direction of the final masterplan and the park’s long term restoration. This is due to take place over the next five years.
