Russian Architecture

Russian architecture features the many ideas of the nation’s culture. These ideas include religious, political and social forces. There are three major periods of Russian architecture. These include Imperial Russia, Communist Russia and the concepts of the Post-war Soviet Union. Each of these styles reference different parts of Russian history. During the imperial period, the Russian Orthodox Church was the dominant source of design. The Church also financed the work of young architects and others who supported the Russian royal family.

After the Communist Revolution of 1917, there was a greater emphasis on state planning and political control. The communists wanted architects to rebuild important cities and develop affordable housing for the Russian people. This period of architecture was known for its drab style and common appearance. At the end of the Cold War, there was more creativity and support from Westerners for bold changes in Russian architecture.

Architecture of Imperial Russia

The architecture of imperial Russia was popular for its construction of Baroque churches. These churches started as small chapels on family estates near Moscow. The style then spread throughout Russia and other parts of Europe. Some of these churches have octagonal floors with tower-like structures. Others are known for their use of ladder-like patterns with a bell tower rising above the church. This style has an extravagant form of decoration. The most famous example of this style is the Assumption Church in Moscow. This church was built in 1696, and was only demolished 80 years ago. The architect of this church also created the “red and white” reconstruction of the Novodevichy Convent and the Donskoy Monastery.

Architecture of Soviet Russia

The architecture of Soviet Russia rejected the formalism of the Baroque period and the influence of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Soviets adopted their own style known as constructivist architecture. This movement emphasized the importance of new technology and materials in structure design. The most famous example of this was Lenin’s Mausoleum by Alexey Shchusev. Set in stone, the building combines dark red and black labradorite with a slender form of construction. Many creative unions also played a role in Soviet architecture. The Association of New Architects merged other brands of art into its work. Members also developed the first designs of Moscow’s skyscrapers.

Architecture of Post-war Soviet Union

Architecture in modern Russia is very expressive and represents many different styles. Moscow is the center of most forms of Russian architecture, drawing interest from real estate developers and various industries. Some of these industries include banking, insurance, technology, health care and government. Even Donald Trump has financed the work of Russian architects in Moscow. These designers are know for their extensive use of glass and steel and abstract patterns.