Once a symbol of Soviet industry, Serp i Molot now stands as a testament to Moscow’s ever-evolving urban landscape. Let’s delve into the history of this area.
The Moscow Metallurgical Plant Serp i Molot translates to “Sickle and Hammer”. It was founded in 1883 as a metallurgic workshop. Initially, it was known as the Goujon Plant. Serp i Molot is one of the oldest major industrial enterprises in middle Russia.
During the Soviet era, the plant was renamed after the Communist “Hammer and Sickle” symbol. This renaming signified its importance to the Soviet Union. The plant operated under this name until it was decommissioned in 2011.
From 1883 to 1917, it was known as the Association of the Moscow Metallic Plant. Briefly, from July 1917 to November 1922, it was the Moscow State Metallic Plant #9. Then, from 1922 to 1992, it officially became the Moscow Metallurgical Plant Serp i Molot. The plant transitioned through various ownership structures.
In April 2011, Serp i Molot ceased operations. A new chapter began in 2014. Plans were approved to redevelop the plant’s territory for housing. Construction started in March 2015 transforming the industrial site into a residential area.
The redevelopment plan aimed to integrate the site’s industrial past with modern urban living. Characteristic factory elements are preserved. Relics such as pipelines and chimneys are incorporated into new buildings. Demolished factory halls are replaced by urban blocks. Green courtyards now enhance the residential environment.
An existing factory transport ring will be repaired. It will become part of a park. This park will form a three-dimensional spine for the new neighborhood. Playgrounds and sports facilities will be added. Open-air markets and pavilions will create vibrant public spaces.
The urban quarter will be developed in phases. It will create space for 19000 inhabitants. There will also be 16000 workspaces. The project is expected to be complete in 2021. The total investment is estimated at 180 billion Roubles.
Sergei Kuznetcov, Moscow’s Chief Architect, announced MVRDV as the winners of the redevelopment competition. The consortium included LAP Landscape & Urban design and AM Proektus. Their design preserves the historical character. It creates a vivid green and mixed-use neighborhood.
Serp i Molot’s transformation reflects Moscow’s ability to reinvent itself. The area serves as a reminder of its industrial heritage. New life breathes into this historical place.