Rising from Novosibirsk’s Evrobereg microdistrict, “The Rock” is an innovative urban complex that seamlessly blends parking with co-working spaces, inspired by the region’s rich “garage culture.” Originally envisioned as a standalone multi-level parking structure, architects SVESMI transformed the concept into a vibrant, multifunctional hub for residents and visitors alike.
Project Name: The Rock A Fusion of Parking and Co-Working in Novosibirsk
Studio Name: Brusnika
Location: Novosibirsk, Russia
Total area: 12,000 m2
Parking: 6,500 m2
Offices: 2,200 m2
Retail: 1,800 m2
Terraces: 500 m2
Design: 2019
Completion: 2022: 2024
Architecture: SVESMI, Brusnika.Design
Developer: Brusnika
Photo: Maxim Loskutov
The building’s striking, angular design, reminiscent of a crystal emerging from bedrock, maximizes space and functionality. Lower levels provide ample parking, while upper floors house a dynamic mix of offices, commercial spaces, and a vibrant co-working environment. Bathed in natural light, these spaces feature open balconies, a communal roof terrace, and breathtaking views of the Ob River.
Inspired by the ingenuity of Soviet-era garage communities, “The Rock” provides a modern interpretation of these improvised workshops and social hubs. The complex offers small studios, open workspaces, and meeting rooms, catering to startups, designers, artisans, and small businesses. Larger spaces can accommodate restaurants and cafes, further enriching the community atmosphere.
Architect Alexander Sverdlov explains, “We wanted to capture the spirit of the ‘third place’ – the garage as a space for work, leisure, and community. ‘The Rock’ provides a contemporary platform for this enduring tradition, fostering creativity and entrepreneurship within a unique urban environment.”
The building’s raw aesthetic, achieved through the use of affordable, readily available materials, evokes the organic growth of traditional garage clusters. This deliberate “non-designed” feel resonates with a diverse audience, from young creatives to established businesses and tourists.
“The Rock” is more than just a parking garage; it’s a dynamic vertical public space, complete with wide staircases, terraces, and panoramic platforms. It offers a unique destination for residents and visitors to connect, work, and enjoy stunning views of Novosibirsk’s evolving skyline. This innovative project exemplifies how thoughtful design can transform a utilitarian structure into a vibrant community asset, deeply rooted in local culture and history.
