A pilot masterplan for a new settlement close to the Russian city of Saratov. Following an invited competition, Fletcher Priest was appointed by Strelka KB, the consulting arm of the Strelka Design Institute, to create a new satellite town for an estimated population of 28,000 people. The brief for the masterplan was to test the implementation of new national design standards in a pilot project and to apply a range of new residential typologies to the site. The strategy is specific to the needs of Saratov and further helps to establish spatial, social and economic principles that can be replicated across the country. Strelka KB, in tandem with DOM.RF (formerly the Federal Agency for Housing Mortgage Lending), has developed national standards for a new generation of towns and cities across Russia, now applied in this pilot project. The residential-led scheme will also accommodate new schools and amenities, including a retail destination, conference centre and a visitor attraction set in a large and publicly-accessible parkland. Saratov is in southwestern Russia, on the banks of the river Volga, a 90 minute flight from Moscow. With a population of 840,000, it is indicative of many cities in Russia – 26% of the country's population live in cities of similar size and urban context. The aim is for the Saratov project to become a prime example of successful urban development across the Russian Federation. Saratov is the birthplace of famed cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, and a new airport being constructed to the north of the masterplan site will be named in his honour. A motorway linking the airport with the city, passes along the western border of the site. As such, the new town is envisaged as a satellite rather than an extension of Saratov. The area is a national centre for the production of energy and is one of the most energy self-sufficient regions in Russia. The brief called for this regional characteristic to be reflected in the design, creating a new progressive residential area with an emphasis on energy-efficient living. The starting point for Fletcher Priest's approach was to consider energy and the broader issues of sustainability that could characterise the entire project. Concerns around energy apply to all scales and all stages of the project – from transportation strategies and landscape design to the distribution of civic and community functions, and the methods of construction. Following a study of the site and context, a number of key masterplan principles emerged. The design was structured around the creation of a strong central landscape which connects to the wider context. The urban framework also recognises the benefits of a district with a true mix of complementary uses that serves as a destination for people in the region. Creating a critical mass that allows for the sharing of amenities at a neighbourhood scale will increase energy efficiency and social cohesion. Promoting sustainable transport and designing for phased implementation helps ensure the project's success. The masterplan capitalises on the natural features of the undulating landscape to include opportunities for recreation. Woodlands, lakes and other waterways will promote new ways of living in proximity to the countryside. Environmental protection and enhancement are central to the development, creating resilient landscapes with walking and cycling routes to enable people to discover nature throughout the year. The success of this project led to further commissions for Strelka KB, including consultancy and collaboration on other large strategic projects they are developing. . Image Credits Fletcher Priest Architects Practice → Approach People Community Awards Publications Careers Services → Architecture Interior design Urban design Research Sectors → Retail hospitality Workplace Culture sport-leisure Residential Education Contact → Social MailChimp Linkedin Twitter Instagram Facebook Copyright © fletcher priest architects 2021 We use cookies to help us improve your experience on our website. By closing this notification or interacting with the website you agree to our use of cookies. Find out more → I accept