The Moscow Cinema’s Summer Hall stands as an architectural gem, born from the collaboration of Spartak Kntekhtsyan and Telman Gevorkyan and unveiled in 1966. Over time, it became a cultural hub, drawing in Yerevan’s creative minds and locals, earning its place as a hallmark of Armenian modernist architecture. It evolved into a striking representation of Armenian modernist architecture, showcased in various materials and monographs.
On the auspicious occasion of Spartak Kntekhtsyan’s 99th anniversary, we unveil a visualization project that encapsulates the essence of the Moscow Summer Cinema in 1985, juxtaposed with its present-day semblance. We aim to recapture its original nature, reminding us of the ambiance it once imbued in its surroundings. We emphasize the contextual significance, visualizing a time when uniform rooftops, unaltered buildings, and spacious sidewalks characterized the area, devoid of the scattered commercial elements seen today.
The Summer Hall of the Moscow Cinema in Yerevan
Birds Eye View
This undertaking was expansive, involving meticulous measurements, exhaustive scrutiny of design documentation, and curation of numerous archived photographs from private collections and hinyerevan.com. Delving into the minutiae of textures and elements used demanded extensive effort, considering the discrepancies between initial blueprints and the final architectural executions, captured on the existing photographs – a common occurrence during the Soviet construction era..
In collaboration with our visualization partners and the ardent contributions of Yerevan State University of Architecture and Construction students, our dedicated studio team invested over a year into this project. However, despite our comprehensive efforts, certain design specifics eluded us, even within the relatively brief span of 40 years since its inception. We earnestly appeal to anyone holding information or materials related to the Moscow Summer Cinema in their archives, as these could bridge the remaining gaps in our understanding. Our endeavor culminated in photorealistic renderings, breathing life into the Moscow Summer Cinema and its surrounding seven structures with meticulous attention to detail, leveraging available resources and architectural ingenuity.
The visual slider presented here unveils the stark contrast between the site’s past grandeur and its current state in 2023, prompting us to envision its potential for the future.
Beyond its architectural uniqueness, the Summer Cinema harmonized with its urban environment, enriching the neighborhood’s aesthetic without compromising its ergonomic integrity—a Hallmark that rendered it magnetically appealing.
Regrettably, seismic concerns led to the dismantling of the Cinema’s front terrace in the late 1980s. Efforts to recalibrate and restore this integral feature were impeded by the upheavals following the collapse of the Soviet Union, thwarting the completion of the envisioned restoration project.
The Summer Hall of the Moscow Cinema in Yerevan
General View
The Summer Hall of the Moscow Cinema in Yerevan
General View
Terrace
Covered part of the Terrace
Courtyard
Cinema Hall
In 2010, impending demolition plans galvanized widespread protests among architects and the public, leading to the safeguarding of the remaining structure. Its inclusion in the ” Newly Identified Monuments of History and Culture of the Yerevan” vindicated its historical, cultural, and architectural significance. Looking ahead, we anticipate hosting a competition to adapt the Moscow Summer Cinema, seeking innovative solutions that restore its architectural integrity while imbuing contemporary functionality. We firmly believe that aligning a compelling concept with the site’s inherent potential will preserve its unique allure and present a commercially viable prospect to investors.
Such endeavors exemplify the economic viability and cultural resonance of rejuvenating Yerevan’s few surviving architectural marvels. They stand as global urban trends, echoing the success of respectful preservation and adaptive reuse.
The Summer Hall of the Moscow Cinema in Yerevan
Main Facade
In embracing the collective wisdom of architects and designers, we endeavor to unveil a solution that reinstates this unique gem, ensuring it serves the city residents and future generations.
Sincerely, Aghasi Kntekhtsyan
Project Contributors:
Agasi Kntekhtsyan – Initiator and Project Manager;
Vahagn Ayvazyan and Grigor Poghosyan – analysis, measurements, and mockups;
Studio “Libera Immaginazione” – mockups and visualization.
Project Contributors:
Agasi Kntekhtsyan – Initiator and Project Manager;
Vahagn Ayvazyan and Grigor Poghosyan – analysis, measurements, and mockups;
Studio “Libera Immaginazione” – mockups and visualization.