One of the most recognizable buildings in the center of Moscow, Central Telegraph will become a new point of attraction in the city. The building will be adapted for modern use thanks to thoughtful design solutions and careful restoration will help preserve the original spirit of Rerberg's architectural design. The concept, created by David Chipperfield Architects and adapted by the APEX team, will emphasize the identity of Central Telegraph and open the building to the public, reviving it as a place for business and social life.
Project name
Central Telegraph
Location
Moscow, Russia
Typology
Public
Year
2020-2022
Project area
71 562 m2
Participation stages
Concept adaptation, PD, DD
Concept
David Chipperfield Architects
Site plan
View from Tverskaya St
Central Telegraph was built in 1927 according to the project of Ivan Rerberg and was the most advanced building of its time: a complex reinforced concrete frame, large windows, pneumatic mail, equipment rooms and a clock with a unique mechanism on the facade. This elegant, modern and progressive building embodied the lofty ideals of the 1920s. At that time, the building occupied an entire city block and served as a workplace for 5,000 people. As technology modernized, the telegraph needed less and less space, and the vacated premises turmed into offices, coworking spaces and cafes. Central Telegraph turned out to be cut off from the city life, having lost its original meaning. The renovation project will restore the historical significance of Central Telegraph for Moscow and breathe new life into it. The foundation and brickwork of the walls will be strengthened, the facades, cast-iron gratings on the tower and the stone porch of the central entrance will also be restored. All decorative elements will be preserved, and doors and windows will be brought into line with the original layout.
View from Nikitsky Lane
There is a large courtyard inside Central Telegraph, where after the end of the project various public event will take place: exhibitions, concerts, lectures. Previously, there was no access to this space and it was used merely for technical purposes. The project will open the courtyard for citizens making it a new point of attraction in the city center.
Landscaping