JTP Wins International Competition for a New Eco-District in Kazan
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JTP Wins International Competition for a New Eco-District in Kazan

Published on 21 November 2018

JTP is delighted to announce that we have won an international design competition for a new Eco-District in the City of Kazan, Russia.

The winning consortium was led by Knight Frank with JTP, French architects, XTU and OXO, Kazan architects Architectural Desant and Belgian practice TerraScape. 

The competition was organised by the Agency for Strategic Development ‘Center’ on behalf of the Republic of Tatarstan.

The concept Ecopolis: Two Forests –‘Ike Urman’ in Tatar – was developed through collaborative processes including a site visit and workshops in Kazan. The design was inspired by the beautiful forest setting, the proximity to the River Volga and the importance of health and wellbeing and strong community values in Tatarstan.

The competition was judged by a panel of over 15 experts, including the President of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, Mayor of Kazan, and the Chief Architect of Kazan.

The City of Kazan, officially branded ‘The Third Capital of Russia’, is situated on the left bank of the River Volga in south west Russia.

Ecopolis: Two Forests comprises four key principles:

  • Green fingers of forest bring the surrounding landscape to the proposals and a central east- west Valley Park 
  • Three villages – higher density villages around the main routes into the site
  • Homes in the forest – clusters of lower density homes nestled into the landscape
  • A green loop of walking, cycling and public transport, connecting all neighbourhood centres
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The competition featured the world’s best architectural and design players, who fought for the right to reach the final. This has enriched us all – we really did see completely new approaches to design, or at least unusual for Russia.
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This is a completely new way of life and completely new requirements for design and construction. And we have seen what Kazan will be like tomorrow. As mayor, I am overwhelmed by feelings of pride and joy that we have reached such a level of design.
Ilsur Metshin, Mayor of Kazan