House of Projects (Dom Proyektiv) | Kharkiv

The House of Projects (Dom Proyektiv) is a prominent architectural landmark located on Freedom Square (Ploshcha Svobody), the central square of Kharkiv, Ukraine. It is a significant example of early Soviet architecture, originally built in the constructivist style during the early 1930s and later renovated with Stalinist influences. The building symbolizes Kharkiv’s industrial and architectural ambition during the Soviet era and remains an important part of the city’s urban landscape.

Historical Context and Construction

Origins and Purpose:
Constructed between 1930 and 1932, the House of Projects was designed as a hub for various design, architectural, and construction institutions of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. Its primary function was to house engineering, architectural, and project organizations responsible for industrial and urban planning developments in Kharkiv and beyond.

Architects and Design:
The building was designed by Sergey Serafimov and Maria Zandberg, who won a competitive design contest with their visionary project titled “To Catch Up and Overtake”. This title reflected the Soviet drive for rapid industrialization and technological progress during that period. The architects embraced the principles of constructivism, emphasizing functionalism, modern materials, and geometric forms.

Structure and Features:

It was the tallest building in Ukraine when completed, standing approximately 68.5 meters tall with 14 floors.

The construction utilized reinforced concrete skeleton frames, a cutting-edge technology at the time, combined with wooden floors to manage costs.

The design featured a high central tower flanked by lower wings, creating a balanced, rhythmic composition.

Large vertical windows and horizontal structural elements emphasized the building’s modernist aesthetic.

Architectural Style and Changes

Original Constructivist Style:
The initial design exemplified constructivism, a style rooted in the avant-garde movement that combined engineering with artistic innovation. The building’s focus was on utility and modernity, featuring minimal decorative elements and emphasizing geometric forms.

World War II Impact:
The House of Projects was heavily damaged during World War II bombings, which caused severe destruction to Kharkiv’s infrastructure.

Post-War Reconstruction:
In 1961, a major renovation led by architects Volodymyr Kostenko and Viktor Lifshyts altered the building’s appearance.

The restoration introduced Stalinist architectural elements, which softened the stark constructivist lines with more classical details, ornamentation, and a heavier, monumental style typical of the era.

This blend created a unique hybrid architecture, combining the original modernist vision with Soviet monumental classicism.

Cultural and Urban Significance

Symbol of Industrial Modernization:
The House of Projects was part of a larger ensemble of buildings on Freedom Square that symbolized Soviet industrial power and urban modernity. It stood alongside other iconic structures like Derzhprom (the State Industry Building) and the House of Cooperation, forming a monumental architectural trio that defined Kharkiv’s city center.

Role in Education and Research:
Since its renovation, the building has served as an important educational and administrative center, notably housing offices related to Kharkiv National University and various scientific institutes.

Heritage Status:
The building is officially recognized as an Immovable Monument of Local Significance in Ukraine, reflecting its historical, architectural, and cultural value.

Location and Visitor Information

Address: Freedom Square (Ploshcha Svobody), 4, Kharkiv, Ukraine.

Accessibility: Easily accessible by public transport, including multiple metro lines stopping at Freedom Square.

Nearby Landmarks: The building stands in the heart of Kharkiv’s central square, surrounded by other historical landmarks, green spaces, and government buildings, making it a popular area for both locals and tourists.

Summary

The House of Projects is a landmark that tells the story of Kharkiv’s architectural evolution and Soviet-era ambitions. Initially a pioneering example of constructivist architecture and industrial progress, it evolved after wartime damage into a symbol blending modernism with Stalinist grandeur. Today, it remains an integral piece of Kharkiv’s cityscape, reflecting the complex history and cultural layers of the region.