The multifunctional complex "Metropolis" was built on the site of a former iron foundry near Voykovskaya metro station. It became an important milestone in the transformation of a former industrial zone into a fully-fledged public and business environment. The main objectives of the project were to create an attractive urban space and a local hub of commercial activity. At the same time, the formation of new functional zones was coupled with the need to connect two elements of the public transport infrastructure: the metro and the railway station, to ensure flexible distribution of flows and sustainable operation in the long term.

The architectural concept of the shopping centre was developed by ABD architects together with RTKL, which subsequently focused more on the retail component, while the office buildings were entirely designed by our team. As early as the design stage in 2009, the structure incorporated the potential for further development: the extension of the retail area and the creation of a connection between the future MCC "Baltiyskaya" station and the existing Voykovskaya metro vestibule. Thus, the project was initially based on the principle of a transport interchange hub.

The composition of the complex combines a shopping centre and three Class A office buildings arranged on a shared stylobate. The square serves as a linking element between the business and commercial parts. Its elevated level relative to Leningradskoye Shosse allowed for separate entrances to the office buildings, thereby ensuring functional separation of flows. From the same square, an additional entrance to the retail gallery is provided.

The commercial part of the complex forms a vibrant urban environment with diverse usage scenarios. Inside, there are shops, cafés, a cinema, and recreational zones, grouped around key pedestrian routes. The space is designed to provide convenient navigation, visual openness, and even activity across all levels of the complex. 

The parking area is organised as an underground and multi‑level above‑ground car park with 3,870 spaces.

"Metropolis" is conceived as a complex with a memorable contemporary architectural image: the warm colour palette of the shopping centre's facade panels and the extensive glazing emphasise its open character and compatibility with the city. 

The finishing materials used in the retail area reflect the aim of creating a modern and durable solution. The combination of glass, metal, and high‑tech panels allows for clean, bright spaces that are resistant to high operational loads. The neutral palette of textures and colours enables tenants to independently shape their own visual strategies on their premises without compromising the overall architectural integrity of the complex.  

The office buildings, in contrast, demonstrate a restrained minimalist geometry: strict cubic volumes with alternating recesses and protrusions on the facades give the buildings a clear rhythm and a businesslike character. This solution helps to soften the contrast between the active commercial part and the more restrained business space, while also creating a recognisable silhouette for the complex. The offices offer panoramic views of the city, and flexible planning solutions allow tenants to adapt the space to their business needs. Well‑considered engineering solutions also create a modern working environment that meets the highest international requirements and standards.

"Metropolis" became an example of a commercially sustainable model of mixed‑use development with a long lifecycle and high adaptability to changing usage scenarios. The project contributed to the formation of a new type of urban complex in which architecture acts not only as a visual shell, but also as a tool for environmental transformation, business development, and the urban economy.

Photos: Sergey Volokitin