Krestetskaya stitching, Metlakh tiles: how architects created a theater-like interior

Contents:

• "Who are we to do anything with it?"
• Kitezh-grad, Nevsky Prospect, 48
• Chests and signs
• A global trend for local

"Who are we to do anything with it?"

The art of Krestets stitch originated in the Novgorod province. In 1860, in the village of Staroe Rakhno, craftswomen developed a unique method of decorating linen fabrics. Since 1929, the main production of this embroidery has been concentrated in the workers' settlement of Kresttsy, which has become the center of development of this traditional craft. Krestetskaya embroidery is renowned for its high quality and original patterns, making it popular among both local residents and arts and crafts enthusiasts across the country. Alexandra Georgieva, the factory's owner, actively manages production processes while simultaneously developing a clothing and textile brand under her own name. The design of her collections harmoniously combines elements of ancient ornaments with modern interpretations, which makes the products unique and attractive to customers.

5:00 am — an architectural bureau founded by Anton Arkhipov and Svetlana Savinova. The firm specializes in interior design for various scales and classes, with a particular focus on commercial spaces such as showrooms, bars, and cafes. The firm's recently completed project includes a showroom for the Krestetskaya Strochka and Alexandra Georgieva brands, located in the Passage shopping center in St. Petersburg. 5:00 AM Architects strives to create unique spaces that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, making them ideal partners for businesses looking to stand out in the marketplace. Passage is one of the most famous and oldest shopping centers in Russia, opened in 1848. Between 1899 and 1901, the building underwent a major renovation, which included the addition of new floors, a skylight, and eclectic architectural décor. This historic building attracts attention not only for its rich past but also for the diversity of its modern retail offerings, while preserving its architectural heritage.

The floors in the retail spaces will be made of Mettlach slabs, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance. Parquet flooring is planned for the halls and offices, adding comfort and style to the interiors. All grand staircases will be made of the same Mettlach artificial stone, guaranteeing high quality and an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

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Mettlach is a ceramic tile named after a factory in the German town of Mettlach. It is distinguished by its high durability, fire resistance, uniform color, and small format. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Mettlach tiles were popular for creating "carpets" in public spaces, including churches and residential entryways. This tile is unglazed, making it ideal for high-traffic areas requiring strength and durability.

When dismantling the new porcelain tiles and screed, old tiles were discovered that completely matched the historical photographs. Together with the client, we unanimously decided to preserve these tiles and carry out their restoration. This approach allows not only to preserve the historical value of the object, but also to add uniqueness and authenticity to the interior. Restoration of antique tiles requires care and professionalism to restore their original appearance and emphasize the rich heritage of this room.

The floor is over a hundred years old, and the white color has acquired a rich, milky shade, which created a harmonious combination with the Italian linen, actively used in the project.

Anton Arkhipov is an expert in his field, with extensive experience and knowledge. His professional activity covers various aspects related to the development and optimization of projects. Anton actively shares his experience and works to create innovative solutions that help businesses reach new heights. His approach is based on analyzing current market trends and applying modern technologies to achieve maximum results. Anton Arkhipov's focus on quality and efficiency makes him a valuable partner for many companies.

Tile restoration is a task that requires specialized skills and experience. We entrusted this work to a master with specific knowledge in this area. Ordinary general workers would be unable to cope with this task due to the many nuances associated with the process. It is important to know which solutions are suitable for cleaning tiles and which grout is best for finishing them. The correct choice of materials and work methods ensures the durability and aesthetic appeal of the tiles, making a professional approach to tile restoration an integral part of a successful renovation.

Several workshops specializing in restoration operate in St. Petersburg. In addition, a service is offered for creating new tiles that fully match the design of the historical ones. This work is significant in cost, but it allows us to preserve the architectural heritage of the city.

We decided to preserve the historical tiles in their original form. Although they are not perfect, their patina of time gives them uniqueness and character. These tiles remember pre-revolutionary St. Petersburg, and we respect their history. We have no right to change anything with them, as they are part of the city's cultural heritage.

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Mettlach was thoroughly cleaned using non-abrasive detergents, which allowed not only To brighten and effectively remove stains, the damaged areas in the main hall were replaced with tiles in good condition, removed from utility rooms and fitting rooms. Chips and damage were sealed with a special compound matched to the color of the aged surfaces, ensuring a unified aesthetic appearance for the interior. This approach to repair and maintenance of tiles allows you to extend the life of the materials and preserve their original appearance.

We were pleasantly surprised when we found historical tiles in such excellent condition. This wasn't part of the original plans, and the decision to restore it arose spontaneously during the work process. Since it was a real surprise for us, it's safe to say that the historical tiles are our favorite element of the project.

Anton Arkhipov is a professional in his field, with significant experience and knowledge. He is actively developing his skills and applying them to various projects. Anton strives for continuous improvement and is always open to new ideas and technologies. His work is characterized by high quality and attention to detail, which allows him to achieve goals and satisfy clients' needs. Anton Arkhipov also actively shares his experience and knowledge with others, which makes him a valuable member of any team.

Kitezh-grad, Nevsky Prospect, 48

During the implementation of projects, 5:00 am architects carefully study the historical context of the location and analyze the brand concept. This allows them to more deeply understand and develop the motifs that will be expressed in the spatial solution. This approach ensures a harmonious blend of architecture and the environment, creating unique and memorable spaces.

The modern Krestetskaya Strochka factory continues to develop this ancient craft, preserving traditions and introducing new trends. The factory's products harmoniously combine traditional visual motifs, minimalist elements, and details of the Neo-Russian style, which emerged at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries and became a symbol of the fabulousness of Russian Art Nouveau. This allows for the creation of unique works that not only preserve cultural heritage but also meet modern design requirements.

The Neo-Russian style is a unique movement in Russian architecture, fine arts, and decorative arts that emerged within the Art Nouveau style. It is based on a free interpretation of motifs from ancient Russian art and is a Russian version of the European national romanticism of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The main characteristics of the neo-Russian style are the epic poetics of artistic imagery, the theatricalization of form, and the presence of elements of the grotesque and symbolic imagery. This style reflects a desire to revive national traditions and cultural heritage, making it a significant stage in the development of Russian artistic thought.

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Using the Great Russian Encyclopedia helps broaden horizons and deepen knowledge about Russia and its place in the global context. This is a valuable resource for anyone seeking knowledge and self-education.

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Art Nouveau is a style that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and significantly influenced architecture, art, and design. It was a response to traditional artistic movements and sought harmony and aesthetic integrity. Art Nouveau is characterized by graceful lines, organic forms, and decorative elements inspired by nature.

This style manifested itself not only in architecture but also in interior design, furniture, graphic design, and even jewelry. Art Nouveau sought to combine art with function, making it popular among artists and designers of the time.

Key features of Art Nouveau include asymmetry, the use of new materials such as glass and metal, and an emphasis on craftsmanship and the uniqueness of each piece. Art Nouveau became a symbol of the era, reflecting changes in society and culture, as well as a desire for novelty and experimentation.

Today, Art Nouveau continues to inspire contemporary designers, maintaining its relevance and drawing attention to aesthetics and functionality.

We do not adhere to the neo-Russian style. Our work is based on project objectives and a specific context. We prefer to approach each project individually, taking into account its unique requirements and characteristics.

We collaborated with the Krestetskaya Strochka brand, which reinterprets historical heritage. In the context of the Passage, a historic 19th-century building, we decided to offer the client a design that interprets the decorative style and neo-Russian "mood." This approach not only emphasizes the brand's uniqueness but also creates an interior that effectively showcases the products on display in the showroom. Interior design should serve as an integral part of the brand's presentation, reinforcing the perception of its values ​​and aesthetics.

We represent the cultural sphere and actively interact with its various aspects. While 20th-century visual modernism may be more familiar and relatable to us, we recognize that we live in a context shaped by avant-garde artistic movements. These movements continue to influence contemporary perceptions and the development of cultural practices. Anton Arkhipov is a name associated with various fields of activity. He is known for his achievements in business, art, and science. If you are interested in information about a specific Anton Arkhipov, his professional achievements, or his biography, please provide additional details. This will help us more accurately identify the information you are seeking. Anton Arkhipov may be a significant figure in his field, and his contributions may be of interest to a wider audience.

The showroom interior embodies the concept of Kitezh-grad, creating theatrical scenery that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a magical Russian fairy tale. This unique approach to design helps create a light and relaxed atmosphere where every guest can enjoy the magic and beauty of traditional culture.

Chests and signs

For The bureau designed unique furniture for the showroom, including heavy, dark chests and storage boxes. These pieces are not only utilitarian but also original; they are not copies of pre-revolutionary designs. The design combines patterns inspired by fairytale a la russe decor with minimalist lines, which gives the chests a modern and fresh look.

We did not visit museums or We used archives because we have a sufficient understanding of the history of art and everyday life, as well as accumulated visual experience. However, before starting the project, Svetlana Savinova and I visited an exhibition dedicated to silk products in pre-revolutionary Russia, which had an additional influence on our work.

The former textile factory preserves memories of silk products and how they were treated at different times. In particular, there are mentions of chests in which valuables were kept. People wore them for festive occasions, and such moments might occur only a few times in a lifetime. Afterwards, the textiles were folded and passed down as an inheritance, preserving family traditions and values. These stories highlight the importance of silk in culture and everyday life, as well as its role in forming family ties and the continuity of generations.

When designing the showroom, we took an important detail into account and decided to integrate the chests. This idea allowed us to create a unique space that attracts attention and emphasizes the style of our brand. The chests are not only functional but also serve as decorative elements, adding originality and charm to the overall showroom design. Anton Arkhipov is a professional in his field, possessing extensive experience and deep knowledge. His work encompasses many aspects, including innovative approaches and best practices. Anton actively shares his experience, allowing him not only to develop his own skills but also to help others achieve success. An important aspect of his work is continuous self-education and keeping up with current trends. Thanks to this, Anton Arkhipov occupies a leading position and is a sought-after expert in his field.

Creating a modern interior requires maintaining a balance between aesthetics and functionality. It's important to avoid overcrowding the space with whimsical details and historical references. To achieve harmony, the interior utilizes simple steel elements and minimalist, smooth surfaces that emphasize the contemporary style and create a sense of spaciousness. This approach creates a cozy and stylish space that aligns with current design trends.

The laconic steel embodies our modernity and industrial progress, while floral patterns are symbols of the Art Nouveau era, reflecting the more manual labor of the same industrial era. In this context, steel serves as an important marker of time, emphasizing relevance and modernity.

We initially defined the project concept as a reimagining of the showroom interior. This is a contemporary design that reflects aspects of the late 19th century without attempting to copy or adapt it. Therefore, the integration of modern elements is an important aspect contributing to the realization of this idea.

Anton Arkhipov is a specialist who occupies a significant place in his field. He is known for his achievements and contribution to the development of various projects. Anton actively works to create innovative solutions and applies advanced technologies in his practice. His experience and knowledge allow him to successfully solve complex problems and achieve his goals. Anton Arkhipov also actively shares his experience through publications and participation in professional events, which makes him a valuable source of information for colleagues and aspiring professionals.

A Global Trend for the Local

In recent years, there has been a noticeable interest in the visual culture of the past, particularly the vibrant late 19th-century period in art, architecture, and design. This trend manifests itself in a variety of ways, from antiques and the revival of cursive typography to the use of kokoshniks in everyday fashion. A return to the aesthetics of the past not only enriches contemporary design but also inspires a new generation of creators seeking to combine tradition with modern trends. As a result, current styles increasingly include elements that were previously considered outdated, which creates a unique synthesis of old and new.

The architects of our bureau shared their thoughts on returning to the aesthetics of the era of Bilibin, Benois and Bakst, which is reflected in their project for Krestetskaya Stochka. They emphasize the importance of turning to historical styles, which inspire contemporary architectural creativity and create unique spaces that blend tradition and modernity. This approach not only enriches the visual language of architecture but also promotes the preservation of cultural heritage, which is especially relevant in today's context.

The great artists, illustrators, and architects of Russian Art Nouveau created works of significant artistic value. These masters of the highest order, such as Bilibin, Bakst, Benois, and many others, demonstrated outstanding skill in graphic design and object design. Their works were not only distinguished by their high quality of execution but also left a significant mark on the history of art, demonstrating the scale and originality of their work. Russian Art Nouveau became an important stage in the development of artistic culture, emphasizing the uniqueness and diversity of styles and techniques.

The value of these artists' works for art historians is undeniable. Even independent observers recognize the undeniable appeal of this art. This appeal is not temporary or accidental—it persists throughout time and remains relevant.

Currently, we are witnessing a rethinking of historical heritage, driven by a number of major trends. These trends are transforming various processes, shifting the focus from the global international agenda to more local aspects. This phenomenon extends beyond the Russian context to a global scale. Rethinking historical heritage allows us to better understand contemporary challenges and adapt cultural and social narratives to changing realities.

People from diverse cultures are interested in local traditions, roots, and characteristics characteristic of the region in which they live and work. This desire to explore local culture enriches the experience and deepens understanding of the uniqueness of each specific territory. Interest in origins and local traditions contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage and the formation of community identity.

Anton Arkhipov is a professional in his field, possessing significant experience and knowledge. His work covers many aspects, including project management and strategic planning. Anton's skills enable him to successfully implement projects, streamlining processes and increasing team efficiency. He actively utilizes modern technologies and approaches, allowing him to find innovative solutions to complex problems. Anton Arkhipov is a reliable partner for businesses seeking growth and development.