The New Face of Cities: Key Takeaways from Expert Discussions at MosBuild 2025

At the recent MosBuild 2025 forum, leading specialists in architecture, development, and urban planning discussed current trends shaping the modern urban environment. Experts shared their experience and vision of how cultural code, strategic master planning, and the reimagining of industrial territories are transforming the face of Russian cities.

Cultural Code as the Foundation for Sustainable Territorial Development

Contemporary architectural and development projects are no longer just commercial objects—they are becoming guardians of regional cultural heritage, shaping a new image of territories. Panelists noted that resort areas are gradually moving beyond seasonal formats, becoming year-round destinations and drivers of regional economic growth. Special attention is being paid to integrating historical heritage with modern architecture and functionality, creating a unique place identity.

"Working in the tourism sector, we follow a fundamental principle: if locals are happy with the infrastructure we create, then visitors will inevitably appreciate its quality. For example, we transformed an unpopular holiday resort in Kamchatka into a popular tourist destination, attracting guests even from remote regions. Before our project, the peninsula had virtually no infrastructure for family vacations. Now the region offers a comprehensive tourism product with outdoor thermal pools, restaurants, and comfortable cabins with panoramic volcano views. This is a fundamentally new level of hospitality for this territory," said Anna Kulikova, Partner at FANTALIS Architects.

Contemporary urban space development is based on integrating cultural codes, strategic planning, and reimagining functional zones. Successful projects create layered spaces where historical heritage organically combines with innovative solutions, forming a unique place identity. Key trends in urban development include:

• Contextuality and Authenticity—creating spaces that reflect a place's unique characteristics and cultural code
• Inclusivity and Dialogue—engaging all stakeholders in the planning and development process
• Multi-functionality—creating diverse usage scenarios for different user groups
• Aestheticizing Functional Objects—giving architectural expression to utilitarian structures
• Social Responsibility—considering local residents' interests and project impacts on their quality of life

Thoughtful urban space development requires an integrated approach that considers not only architectural and planning solutions but also socio-cultural context, economic factors, and the needs of diverse user groups. It is this integrated approach that creates sustainable, authentic, and attractive territories that become catalysts for positive change in the urban environment.

Source: https://aindexproject.com/novyj-oblik-gorodov-itogi-ekspertnyh-diskussij-na-forume-mosbuild-2025/