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Nikita LazarevRussian entrepreneur, architect
Date of Birth: 01.01.1866
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Content:
- Nikolai Grigorievich Lazarev: A Pioneer of Moscow Architecture
- Entrepreneurial Success
- Architectural Masterpieces
- - House on Volkhonka Street, 7
- Embassy and Diplomatic Residence
- Later Years and Legacy
Nikolai Grigorievich Lazarev: A Pioneer of Moscow Architecture
Early Life and EducationNikolai Grigorievich Lazarev was born into a prominent Armenian family in Moscow. He inherited his entrepreneurial spirit and architectural talents from his ancestors, who were renowned architects in the city. Lazarev pursued his education at the prestigious Saint Petersburg Institute of Civil Engineers.
Entrepreneurial Success
After graduating, Lazarev established himself as a successful businessman and property developer. He designed and constructed numerous доходные дома (apartment buildings) throughout Moscow. His first major project was the Echkin Hotel on Arbat, which he completed in 1903.
Architectural Masterpieces
Over the next decade, Lazarev played a pivotal role in shaping the architectural landscape of Moscow's most prestigious neighborhoods. His notable works include:
- House on Volkhonka Street, 7
- Apartments on Arbat Street, 10 and 29- Apartments on Tverskoy Boulevard, 8 and 10
The Mindovsky House: A Neoclassical Landmark
In 1906, Lazarev designed and built the residence for Nikolai Ivanovich Mindovsky on Prechistensky Lane (now known as the Austrian Embassy). This imposing structure, with its unique barrel-shaped columns, became an early and iconic example of Neoclassicism in Moscow. It foreshadowed similar works by renowned architects Ivan Fomin and Vladimir Shchuko.
Embassy and Diplomatic Residence
After the Russian Revolution, the Mindovsky House was confiscated and used as a diplomatic residence. In 1938-1955, it housed the Austrian Embassy. During this period, it became a stage for historical events, hosting visits by Joachim von Ribbentrop and Winston Churchill.
Later Years and Legacy
Despite losing his business after 1917, Lazarev remained financially secure and resided in a comfortable apartment in central Moscow. He passed away in the 1960s, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the architectural fabric of the city he called home.
