Erick van Egeraat associated architects, Rotterdam
The Russian projects by (EEA) Erick van Egeraat associated architects are another step in EEA’s progression east. Beginning in 1994 with the completion of the first Eastern Europe Head office of ING Bank and Nationale Nederlanden, EEA has steadily worked on a number of projects in Hungary, Czech Republic, Poland and now Russia. Deeply moved by the richness of the architecture of these Eastern Europe countries, Erick van Egeraat set himself the task to develop a contemporary response to their architectural heritage. Connecting the demands of contemporary life with the quality of the historical surroundings, he defines his approach to architecture as ‘Modern Baroque’. Seeking to develop an architecture that can inspire, offering temptation as well as solace, the opportunity to work in the capital of the former USSR, and working closely together with the client, Capital Group, on a number of projects, the context of Russia today, has been proven to be completely different from previous experiences in Eastern Europe
The Russian culture is one of complexity and richness, with architecture as a silent witness of historical growth and change. In the old city center of Moscow, around the Kremlin and the Red square, superb buildings of the fifteenth century stand aside with functionalist buildings from the 1920’s, and richly decorated buildings stand next to steel and glass skyscrapers from the 1960’s. The opening up towards the west has given way to yet another development in the city’s architectural life. The EEA Moscow projects seek to express a new sensuality, catering for the new lifestyle of Moscow citizen after generations of communism. The projects, - housing as well as offices and entertainment-, express a desire to bridge the potential gap between progress and development and the quality of historic architecture.
The invitation to be part of the prestigious international competition for the extension of the famous Mariinsky theatre in St. Petersburg gave EEA the opportunity to further explore the possibilities of ‘Modern Baroque’. Being challenged by the intricate detailing and materialization of the classical architecture of the existing theatre, and supported by extensive experience in theatre design in the UK and the Netherlands, the proposal for the Mariinsky is an outstanding example of Erick van Egeraat’s quest for contemporary architecture.
Speakers at the opening:
Kristin Feireiss, Berlin
Alexander P. Kudryavtsev, President of MIARCH, Moskau.
An Aedes-catalogue will be published (€ 10.-).
The exhibition is supported by Capital Group and Zumtobel Staff.
