In an ambitious effort reflective of Moscow’s vision for urban revitalization,we were tasked to craft a lobby for an exclusive boutique residence within the bustling heart of the historic Hamovniki district. The brief was clear yet challenging: to conceive a space that transcends the traditional conception of luxury, embedding historical resonance and contemporary allure. The guiding concept derived from an exploration into Hamovniki’s rich textile heritage, a district historically teeming with weavers and famed for its silk and velvet productions for royalty. It inspired us to think of spaces as fabric, woven from threads of historical, cultural, and social significance. We also embraced the metaphor of thread and fabric as a reflection of life’s intertwined journeys and connections.
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The boutique residence lobby, situated in the tranquil and historical Hamovniki district, effortlessly integrates with its serene and verdant surroundings. Hamovniki, known for its peaceful charm despite being in the heart of Moscow, offers a unique juxtaposition of urban living amidst nature’s embrace. Within walking distance from some of Moscow’s most iconic landmarks and bordered by numerous parks and green areas, the district lends itself to a design ethos that seeks harmony with the natural environment. This guiding principle is mirrored in the lobby’s thoughtful design, which incorporates natural materials and earth-toned palettes to echo the lush greenery and serenity of the surrounding parks.
Sustainability was a cornerstone in the design of this lobby in Moscow’s prominent neighborhood of Hamovniki. The commitment to sustainability is implemented through the choice of materials, technologies, and the narrative approach that prioritizes historical continuity. Locally-sourced and environmentally-conscious materials, such as responsibly harvested wood, recycled metals, and low-VOC paints, were selected to reduce the carbon footprint and promote healthier indoor air quality. By paying homage to the historical context of Hamovniki’s textile heritage, the project embraces the principles of cultural sustainability. The lobby design serves as a living narrative that preserves and celebrates the district’s storied past, fostering a sense of place and belonging among residents.
Our approach aimed to balance cutting-edge design with nods to tradition, infusing the space with a narrative depth that invites reflection. We deliberately created associations with textile patterns, employing architectural and design elements that mimic the act of weaving, thus blurring the lines between past and present, material and memory. The design intricately plays with textures and light to simulate the tactile and visual qualities of fabric. Key features include a centerpiece column and ceiling arrangement reminiscent of an unrolling scroll of fabric, and a reception backdrop suggesting threads stretched on a loom. The use of layered lighting accentuates the materiality, bringing out the illusion of softness and sheen on solid surfaces.
Beyond its immediate aesthetic appeal, the project showcases how design can serve as a bridge between eras, weaving together threads of history, art, and modern life. It has been well-received by the client and development company for its strategic alignment with broader communication goals and serves as a model for integrating luxury with legacy in urban development.
IDEOLOGIST — a conceptual architecture and design bureau with close ties to Japanese architects, artists, and craftsmen.
We create architecture, public spaces, private interiors, and object design, all rooted in a specific idea.
All our projects are conceptual at their core. Thanks to the interdisciplinary nature of our work and our multicultural team, IDEOLOGIST takes on the most complex projects that require fundamentally new solutions — from creating spaces of specific typologies to using unique handmade materials.