ZUEV CULTURAL CENTER

Moscow | 2025 | 3635 sq.m

Architect: Ekaterina Potapova

Visualization: Ekaterina Potapova, Maria Voytyukhova

Historical Context

The Zuev Cultural Center, originally known as the Zuev Workers’ Club, is one of the most iconic works of architect Ilya Golosov and a globally recognized landmark of Constructivism. Built in 1929 for workers of the Miussky tram depot located opposite the site, the building is defined by the dynamic interplay of simple geometric volumes — a cylinder and rectangular forms.

Over time, the building underwent several alterations, including facade changes and interior renovations in the 1970s, when marble finishes and new decorative elements were introduced.

By its function, the club served both as a cultural center and an educational hub, hosting a wide range of activities throughout the day — from cultural and educational programs to political initiatives, far beyond just clubs, theater, and cinema.

Project Concept

The renewal concept of the Zuev Cultural Center is built on the fusion of three key ideas embedded in its origin.

Spirit of RevolutionTheatrical Nature of the SpaceConnection to the Tram Depot

These three lines come together in the vision of a contemporary cultural center that goes beyond restoration. It becomes a living space — open to the city, relevant to society, and charged with creativity, dialogue, and change.

Level 1

Lobby

Preserve the light architectural core envisioned by Golosov, expand the buffet area, increase seating capacity, and rethink its layout by introducing a bar counter for quick bites.

One of the unique features of the ground-floor foyer is a waiting area with modular sofas that move along tracks built into the floor. This detail references tram rails while allowing the space to be reconfigured according to the needs of the cultural center’s visitors.

Near the main spiral staircase, photographs by Rodchenko are displayed. Each of them echoes elements found in the interiors of the cultural center, highlighting details that have become its visual signature.

Level 1

Book Shop

Red textiles and accent shelving elements reference the building’s revolutionary past.Near the checkout, a blue display unit draws inspiration from the distinctive ticket counters of the retro Tatra T3 tram.

Level 1 Plan

Level 2

Foyer & Work Lounge

Within the building’s cylindrical volume, a work lounge is set next to the workshop block.On the wall, a work by contemporary artist Rinatto L’bank, The Zero Coordinate of Thinking, reflects the rhythm of the modern city.

Level 2

Creative Workshops

A space designed for workshops for both adults and children, equipped with fully functional workstations.Partitions between the workshops are made of frosted glass: they maintain privacy while allowing a sense of the adjacent spaces — soft light and movement remain visible without disrupting those working inside.

Level 2

Restroom

Located on the second floor, the restroom conveys an industrial aesthetic through its glowing ceiling and a bold red sink. The stall doors are finished in steel.

Level 2 Plan

Level 3

Theatre Foyer

On the third floor, the theatre foyer features panoramic windows and an intimate lounge area with armchairs.The space preserves the building’s original architecture, including its distinctive beam ceiling.

Level 3

Main Theatre Hall

The space is deeply rooted in its theatrical nature.At its heart lies the main theatre hall, where a rich, expressive atmosphere comes to life. Here, the revolutionary red gradually transforms into a deep theatrical tone.

Level 3 Plan

Level 5

Café

The café is located at the highest point of the building — on the fifth floor, offering panoramic views of Moscow.It is a place to relax after a performance, enjoying a calm atmosphere and spending time over a cocktail with friends or family.

On the wall, a mirrored panel is engraved with a 1930 tram network map, where the Zuev Cultural Center on Lesnaya Street is marked with a red dot — the very place where we are now.

Level 5 Plan