CITY BAY
Located on the shores of the Moscow River, “City Bay” residential complex is an example of balance between nature and the urban environment; the dynamic rhythm of city life and calm flow of the river. The variable height of the buildings, gradually rising from the river to the city, and the blending of dense natural materials like brick and stone with sleek glass and metal emphasize a continuity and coexistence of urban and natural environments. The overall structure of the complex is built on a hybrid axial scheme, organizing public, semi-private, and private spaces. A wide boulevard, which connects two groups of high-rise towers in the east and west, is the central axis of the complex. Along it are children’s playgrounds, recreational areas with sculptures, walkways and a park. Alleys between neighborhoods operate as “buffer” zones, separating places for work, entertainment and rest – the playgrounds of kindergartens and educational centers are adjacent to quiet recreation areas, while co-working spaces are paired with cafes and shops. The neighborhoods themselves combine the privacy of closed courtyards while retaining the permeability of a porous city structure. Series of arches create complex spaces, opening perspectives on the neighboring yards and boulevards, and allow for the yards to remain sunny without creating a feeling of enclosed space. Identification within the complex is ensured by individual facade solutions and unique recreational features created for each residential cluster. While each facade is created individually for its structure, they all follow a common scheme of varying material density: the low structures use brick, the medium height buildings are predominantly faced with metal, and the high-rising towers are faced with combinations of metal and glass. This makes the lower structures seem grounded and the high volumes dissolve, reflecting the sky and surrounding buildings. Real-time progress: Webcam 1, 2, 3