ZARAISK

It was important for us not just to create a comfortable environment for locals and tourists but also to emphasize the historical background of the city and to show its uniqueness.

Zaraysk is a small ancient city that still retains the comfort and warmth of bygone eras - and this is its charm. It is dominated by small wooden merchant estates of the XIX century. The water tower and the church bell tower are still the dominant landmarks. The market area is still in the same place as 200 years ago, and the main street was built during Catherine II reign. According to the project, the historical center is combined into a large pedestrian and tourist area with new points of attraction around historical monuments.

It’s clear that in order to preserve the atmosphere of the Russian county town, one can’t apply any ready-made solutions, even those that «worked» elsewhere - standard street lanterns, paving, benches.

The concept developed by Basis is built around shapes, materials, plants and colors typical for Zaraysk. We tried to find materials that would age gracefully: we chose wood instead of something bright and modern; we designed authentic wood and copper lamps; we also used historical cobblestone in the pavement. We believe that’s how a new urban identity is formed.

As always in the case of public design, most of the budget is invested in important works on waterworks, gas infrastructure development, power supply, wastewater disposal systems. The entire center is designed according to the principle of a barrier-free environment suitable for people with limited mobility.