Moscow: What Could Be
The last site which embodies the urban theme of modernization, or of a structure yet to be transformed for modern use, would be the Narkomfin building in Moscow, Russia. Once a renowned architectural site, and an example of the benefits of communist communalism, the building now sits, much like the cistern did during its history, decaying and on the verge of collapse.
The evolution of the Narkomfin building is discussed in the Omeka exhibit “Communism and the USSR in Art: Moscow Constructivist Architecture Tour,” under the page “City Living: The Narkomfin Building.” While the exhibit does not document the current efforts to transform the site into a modern hotspot that caters to the needs of current Moscow citizens, the exhibit documents the building's past, and its modern uses. Although it is now a “Cultural Heritage Monument” on the Russian cultural heritage register, the building today sits in a dilapidated state, and is on the “UNESCO Endangered Buildings” list. Nevertheless, activities like yoga classes continue to be conducted on the top floor, while some parts of the building remain occupied. Additionally, there are now significant efforts to ensure the building’s preservation, and revitalization. Moisei Ginzburg has committed to repaint and renovate the structure while maintaining its architectural design. The ultimate plan is for the Narkomfin building to be turned into “business class accommodation,” as well as house a café.
On top of the building’s current use for occasional yoga sessions, the current plans for a café and business class amenities would transform the Narkomfin building into a true public realm. While not in the center of Moscow, the building could act as a meeting space for strangers, and the plans could once again enliven a building and community that have waned over the years. The structure embodies Sennett’s idea of closure in that its use has diminished from its prime during the USSR era and its age puts it on the cusp of becoming obsolete and of not being able to modernize to fit current purposes. If the current plans for revival do fall through, this structure could be a candidate for the “destruction” that Sennett describes in order to make room for new modern uses.
- Paulhus, Derek. Communism and the USSR in Art: Moscow Constructivist Architecture Tour. Omeka RSS, n.d. Web. 09 Dec. 2016.