KCAP and Orange transform Vasilievsky Island

Rotterdam-based architectural practices KCAP and Orange have won a prize to transform St Petersburg’s Vasilievsky Island

(Image credit: TBC)

The Russian island of Vasilievsky is set for a makeover. The understated yet historically rich locale is an important port-side connection for St Petersburg, bordering the Gulf of Finland. Gearing up for the challenge are two architectural firms, KCAP and Orange, who have won the first prize for the urban and architectural competition.

In the hope of creating a buzzing new geographic sector for St Petersburg, the two Rotterdam-based enterprises are seeking to reposition the small island as a smart entrance point for the city from the water, with a mixture of layer-building concepts that will be modern while also embracing traditional Russian architecture.

Firstly, the peninsula will be enlarged to create an inviting public area, which will be further embellished with blocks to create defined courtyard spaces – a nod to the historical structure of St Petersburg. High rises will then be formed to promote a more metropolitan atmosphere, as well as allowing panoramic views of the area. However, to avoid the soulless quality of conventional tower blocks, the two architectural practices are topping the buildings with gold spires – a further reference to classicist Russian architecture.

KCAP and Orange were chosen from a shortlist of six finalists, in a competition organised by Glorax Development and the municipality of St Petersburg. ‘Our plan creates a beautiful antechamber of the majestic historical centre of St Petersburg,’ explains the winning duo.

The plan hopes to promote St Petersburg as a metropolitan city while maintaining classic Russian architectural qualities

The peninsula will be enlarged to create an inviting public area, which will be further embellished with blocks to create defined courtyard spaces – a nod to the historical structure of St Petersburg

Included in the plan are high-rise buildings which will be topped with gold spires, a traditional Russian architectural style

KCAP and Orange hope to reposition Vasilievsky Island a truly smart entrance point for St Petersburg from the water

INFORMATION

For more information visit KCAP’s website and Orange’s website

Sujata Burman is a writer and editor based in London, specialising in design and culture. She was Digital Design Editor at Wallpaper* before moving to her current role of Head of Content at London Design Festival and London Design Biennale where she is expanding the content offering of the showcases. Over the past decade, Sujata has written for global design and culture publications, and has been a speaker, moderator and judge for institutions and brands including RIBA, D&AD, Design Museum and Design Miami/. In 2019, she co-authored her first book, An Opinionated Guide to London Architecture, published by Hoxton Mini Press, which was driven by her aim to make the fields of design and architecture accessible to wider audiences.