Urban Block Moskau

For the open international competition “A101 Urban Block” in Moscow, we developed an urban block that works as a building block for very different locations. The brief called for a type that could be repeated many times across a new urban district without becoming monotonous.

The centre of the block is cut out, creating a sheltered, open inner space, while the edges of the block clearly define the urban grid. The block is divided into eight individual segments. The gaps between them let sun, light and air into the interior and open up views to the outside. Each segment forms a small community of its own within the larger whole.

The block owes its adaptability to its flexible ground floors. Depending on the location, they accommodate different uses: on quiet residential streets, the flats sit slightly raised above street level; along busy routes, offices and shops line the street; and opposite a park, restaurants and cafés open onto the greenery. In this way, the same block fits naturally into its surroundings each time.