2007 » Russia » Architecture section

The Alexandriisky Theatre-The Russian Pushkin State Drama Th

Project: Complete Reconstruction and Restoration 6, Pl. Ostrovskogo, St. Petersburg, Russia The Alexandriiski Theatre, built in 1828-1832 by K.I/ Rossi, is the best example of the Russian classicism and one of his best creations. Built and designed with advanced technologies of the time in the 19th century, during its 175-years history, the theatre has been many times repaired and renovated, as a result of multiple interventions, the historic planning of the edifice was seriously changed, its unique decorations lost and acoustic characteristics of its auditorium deteriorated. And some space of the auditorium was turned into administrative offices. All engineering systems have been worn out and do not correspond to modern requirements. Some of them are not still disconnected, though out of order and turned off. The theatre stage possibilities technologically are outdated and lag behind modern performances. In 1999-2003 on the eve of St. Petersburg’s 300th anniversary, the theatre’s facades and some of its interiors were repaired. Its complete restoration and reconstruction of 2005-2006 fall on the 250th anniversary of the Alexandriiski Theatre, the new state attitude to the theatre culture and the 175th anniversary of the architectural monument. During the works, all elements of the theatre’s structure, its earlier renovations and restorations have been taken into account. Designers and conservators-restorers have successfully managed to preserve the edifice’s exterior, its structure and interiors. At the same time, they have introduced up-to-date systems such as automated, computerized and control equipment. Complete scientific conservation-restoration and reconstruction of the interiors include the re-creation of the pristine design, viz. the re-creation of its original architectural interiors, relevant to certain historical periods (according to research results), the preservation of the original structures, conservation-restoration of historical decorative elements and painting, re-creation and restoration of worn-out details (its floors, doors and windows), removal of later layers as well as intrusive fad of the Soviet times, distorting original interiors. In the same way, renovated were the auditorium, the central (czarist) and side boxes, staircases, and a dining hall, and some other spaces. The Czarist box’s space acquired its original space, previously “cut off” to house a movie-projection apparatus, and the double-headed eagle, a Russian Royal coat-of-arms has been returned to its original place on the box. Also restored are the central chandelier, multiple wall