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Training program with a guarantee of employment: "Interior design as "Profession"
Find out moreKitay-Gorod is a unique space where various historical eras intertwine. On the one hand, here you can feel the atmosphere of an ancient merchant town with its chambers, churches, and cozy courtyards. On the other hand, it is also a popular place to relax, where new bars, coffee shops, and Georgian restaurants are quickly springing up like mushrooms after rain.
In these places, spaces that at first glance appear archaic, while their interiors seem to have calmly survived all significant historical changes, feel especially comfortable. There is a vintage atmosphere and objects familiar to boomers, representatives of Generation X and millennials, which evoke nostalgic feelings in zoomers.
We share information about locations with nostalgic design in the Solyanka and Bolshoi Trehsvyatitelsky Lane areas.
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The spirit of the place
The spirit of this area, filled with commerce, diversity, and vitality, can be traced from the Kitay-Gorod metro station to Pokrovsky Boulevard and has its roots in ancient times. For example, starting in the 16th century, a salt fish yard was located at the junction of today's Zabelina and Solyanka streets. Over time, the building of the Moscow Merchant Society was erected here, which housed both shops and underground warehouses.
This area of Moscow is home to numerous churches representing various religious denominations, as well as ancient monasteries and manor houses with well-kept gardens. Low-rise merchant buildings and apartment buildings built before the revolution are located here.
Kitai-Gorod, Solyanka, Ivanovskaya Gorka, and Khitrovka were never subjected to the careful development of Arbat or Tverskaya. Even during the Soviet era, under Luzhkov and Sobyanin, this triangle retained its original roughness and unique character. That is why an authentic bar with furniture found at a flea market and a cafe with an interior evoking the atmosphere of the Soviet era harmoniously coexist here. Moreover, Khitrovka has long been a place for trading in old things.
During the Soviet era, the streets were lined with pirozhki shops, canteens, and snack bars near metro stations, where people came to eat, drink, and socialize. An atmosphere of communication and fun is not a new youth craze, but a long-standing tradition.
Today, Kitay-gorod is a triangle of nostalgic memories. In the course of a single evening, you can find yourself in a communal apartment, in the very center of Tbilisi, or even transported to East Berlin in the 70s.
We present nine locations where memories of the past, even if they are not yours, fill glasses with a touch of melancholy.
Bambule
Solyanka Street, Building 1/2
On the second floor, there is an aperitif bar that draws its inspiration from 70s Europe—on one side, the West, on the other, the East. The design of this establishment was formed from a variety of finds collected at European flea markets: chairs in bright colors, wallpaper in the style of "GDR", and elegant porcelain tableware.
This bar gives the impression that it has been around for about 40 years and has always been in this location, although in fact, it only opened in the summer of 2018. You can really feel the atmosphere of "inner Berlin emigration" here.
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Retro interior design is a style inspired by past eras that evokes nostalgia and recreates the atmosphere of a certain time. This trend covers a wide range of aesthetic solutions, including decorative elements, furniture, and color palettes characteristic of different decades.
One of the main features of the retro style is the use of vintage items, which can be both real antiques and modern products made in the corresponding spirit. Furniture often features vibrant colors, rounded shapes, and unusual textures.
Color schemes in retro-style interiors typically include warm hues, pastels, and bright accents. Patterns, such as florals or geometrics, are also important elements, adding dynamism and expressiveness to the space.
Lighting plays an equally important role in creating a retro atmosphere. Lamps with vintage-style shades, as well as wall sconces with distinctive shapes, help highlight the features of this style.
An important aspect is not only the selection of individual items, but also the overall concept of the interior, which should harmoniously combine elements of different eras, creating a unified whole. Retro style allows you to express the individuality and unique taste of the owners, creating cozy and memorable spaces.
"Sur"
Bolshoy Trehsvyatitelsky Lane, building 2, building 1, room 8.
This place has become a symbol of the pandemic and, probably, the most "Berlin" corner of the area. Here, an atmosphere of freedom, ease with regard to space and the confidence that any lockdown can be survived with a cocktail in hand reigns.
The name did not come about by chance. Initially, we considered the option "Sure", but ultimately came to the conclusion that "Sur" It sounds more concise, accessible, and better conveys the desired mood.
«Clear»
Bolshoy Trekhsvyatitelsky Lane, Building 2, Building 1, Room 8.
The creators of the establishment initially planned to offer oysters with black caviar for 2,500 rubles, but at the moment French fries are still on the menu. The decor suggests that this interior, reminiscent of a dacha belonging to wealthy Moscow intellectuals, could well incorporate elements of high-tech and crystal.
Although the vision has not yet fully materialized, the decor still gives the impression of vintage sophistication.
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"Rent"
Location: Bolshoy Trehsvyatitelsky Lane, Building 2/1s5, "Osobnyak" Space.
Posters related to the 1996 elections immediately catch your eye. years, which were discovered in the building's basement and now decorate the "Rent" space. Also, cabinets from the HR department have found a new use, becoming elements of a pasta bar. The furniture for this establishment was collected through Avito ads and was even partially reclaimed from the factory. Tableware reminiscent of what my grandmother used, and dishes with similarly rich flavors—it's like a trip back in time, only this time I'm an adult.
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«Eclair»
Location: Bolshoy Trehsvyatitelsky Lane, Building 2, Building 1, Room 5, «Osobnyak» space.
«Eclair» is an initiative in which the interior design was created based on Personal memories and impressions. The author was inspired by childhood images, the cozy atmosphere of a library, and the image of a refined grandmother enjoying leisurely conversations over a cup of tea. Thus, the first elements of the interior were created: a round table with a lampshade, a piano, corners designed for games and reading, an "introvert's corner," and an area for "conflicts and reconciliations." Vintage wallpaper dating back to 1963 and items purchased on Avito completed the overall design of the space.
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«Apartment 37»
Location: Bolshoy Trehsvyatitelsky Lane, building 2/1c5, «Osobnyak» space.
A cozy space, reminiscent of a home atmosphere, filled with the aroma Khachapuri allows you to temporarily forget the hustle and bustle of the Kitay-Gorod district outside. The establishment's name is no accident: it refers to the apartment number where its owner spent his childhood. According to him, the "tyagach" on the menu is an authentic Georgian salad, which is quite difficult to find in Moscow. Preparation does not require much effort: fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, sweet onions, Kakhetian oil, Svan salt and a small amount of nuts.
«Mnogo Kofe» — a new name that replaced «Mai»
Bolshoy Trehsvyatitelsky Lane, Building 2, Building 1.
A micro-coffee shop located on Bolshoy Located on Trekhsvyatitelsky Street, this cafe offers a unique atmosphere free from sterile interiors and Zoom calls taking place at neighboring tables. The design evokes nostalgic associations with 1990s East Berlin: exposed brick walls, vintage furniture, and a familiar rug decorating the wall create the cozy feel of a typical "ruin" cafe. The focus isn't on the food—seating is limited, but takeaway drinks are available. The menu offers both traditional and original dishes.
"Mnoogo Kofe" is a must-visit place if you want to relax, enjoy jazz tunes, and forget about the city noise for a while.
«Wine Faculty»
Bolshoy Trehsvyatitelsky Alley, Building 2, Bldg. 1.
At some point, our grade books have to start being useful, right?
We pretend to be connoisseurs of sparkling wine, pondering whether to choose a Crémant or a Cava. We pick up an interesting book and settle comfortably into a chair whose upholstery remembers the difficult times of the 1991 monetary reform.
"Cleanliness on Wheels: Cars under the Careful Care of Veladora"
Starosadsky Pereulok, Building 3, Building 2.
Every car wash, it seems, finds its place in paradise, where it is transformed into a cozy bar. An example of such an establishment is this oasis of beer tranquility, located in Kitay-gorod and created by the Veladora team.
A mixed drink with lemonade and a magnificent Margarita on a thin crust with a fluffy edge - sometimes this is all it takes for a cozy Sunday evening. Or maybe it’s not Sunday at all... and it's not evening?
The court issued a decision to ban the "activities of Meta Platforms Inc. in Russia, concerning the sale of such products as social networks Facebook and Instagram, citing grounds related to extremist activity."
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- Gothic in Russia: architectural monuments in the Gothic style that are a must-see
In Russia, you can find a number of magnificent Gothic buildings that are interesting examples of this style of architecture. These buildings not only attract attention with their unique aesthetics, but also immerse you in the atmosphere of the past.
One of the most striking examples is the Church of St. Thomas in St. Petersburg, which was erected at the beginning of the 20th century. Its characteristic elements, such as high lancet windows and graceful arches, perfectly demonstrate all the charms of the Gothic style.
No less impressive is the Church of St. Catherine in Moscow. Designed by architect Joseph Messmacher, this church combines Gothic and neo-Gothic elements, making it unique within the Russian architectural tradition.
Also worth noting is the building of the Institute for Noble Maidens in St. Petersburg, where one can see the influence of Gothic forms in the decor and architectural solutions.
These and many other Gothic monuments in Russia are important parts of cultural heritage and provide an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of both local and international architectural history. Visiting such sites will allow you not only to enjoy their beauty but also to feel the spirit of the times in which they were created.
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- Gesamtkunstwerk GZ: Features of the construction of the high-rise building of Moscow State University
The high-rise building of Moscow State University, also known as the HSE MSU, is not only a work of architecture but also a symbol of an entire cultural movement that can be characterized by the term Gesamtkunstwerk. This concept, which originated in German culture, implies a synthesis of various arts united in a single work.
Construction of this monumental building began in the late 1940s, and it became not just an educational institution, but an important element in the Moscow cityscape. The architect who headed the project, Sergei Chechulin, sought to create a structure that would combine elements of the Stalinist Empire style and traditional Russian architectural forms.
The building, over 240 meters high and with 36 floors, was completed in 1953 and became one of the seven Stalinist skyscrapers that adorn the capital. Its façade, made of light limestone, with characteristic decorative elements, reflects the grandeur and ambition of the era.
In addition to the exterior, it is important to note the interior space: the halls and classrooms are designed to provide functionality and comfort for students and faculty. Thus, the Moscow State University skyscraper is not only an outstanding example of architecture, but also an important cultural site that continues to inspire generations.
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The specifics of an interior designer's work
You will master the art of transforming living spaces, be it houses or apartments. Learn techniques for creating blueprints, impressive renders, and 3D visualizations. This will allow you to obtain a sought-after profession, thanks to which you can accept profitable orders or even open your own design agency.
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