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Vyacheslav OltarzhevskiyRussian, Soviet architect, a leading specialist in high-rise construction.
Date of Birth: 17.03.1880
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Content:
- Vasily Iosifovich Olytarzhevskiy
- Early Career and Modernism
- The Emergence of a Master Planner
- Revolutionary Service and Post-Revolution Roles
- Inspiration from the United States
- All-Union Agricultural Exhibition
- Political Persecution and Imprisonment
- Post-Release and Contribution to High-Rise Architecture
- Legacy and Resting Place
Vasily Iosifovich Olytarzhevskiy
Russian-Soviet ArchitectBorn into a civil servant's family in 1889, Vasily Iosifovich Olytarzhevskiy received his education from prestigious institutions such as the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture (1901-1908) and the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts under renowned architect Otto Wagner (1905).
Early Career and Modernism
Olytarzhevskiy's professional journey commenced during the waning popularity of Art Nouveau and the revival of Neoclassicism, influencing his architectural designs. While his brother Georgy focused on constructing residential buildings, Vasily embarked on ambitious projects with social significance.
The Emergence of a Master Planner
A significant milestone in Olytarzhevskiy's career was the design of the Northern Insurance Society's complex on Ilinskaya Street (1909-1911), executed in collaboration with M. M. Peretyatkovich and I. I. Ryerberg. Controversies surround his possible involvement in the 'Mauritania' shopping complex in Blagoveshchensk.
Revolutionary Service and Post-Revolution Roles
During the Russian Revolution, Olytarzhevskiy served as a military engineer in the Red Army (1918-1921). Upon his return, he worked on Moscow's first All-Russian Agricultural Exhibition (1922-1923).
Inspiration from the United States
In 1924, Olytarzhevskiy embarked on a study trip to the United States, where he became acquainted with cutting-edge building techniques. He completed his coursework at New York University, worked on high-rise construction projects in New York City, and designed the 'Royal Pines' resort in New Jersey.
All-Union Agricultural Exhibition
In 1935, Olytarzhevskiy led a team that won the design competition for the All-Union Agricultural Exhibition, a grand project planned to open in 1937. His plan emphasized open spaces and symmetrical nodes, contrasting with the historical context of the site. Despite criticisms, Olytarzhevskiy's vision was approved for implementation.
Political Persecution and Imprisonment
The construction of the exhibition became marred by arrests in the People's Commissariat of Agriculture. Olytarzhevskiy was accused of sabotage and sent to labor camps in 1938. His design for the exhibition was demolished and rebuilt, but his overall planning for the VSHV (later VDNKh and VVTs) remains intact today.
Post-Release and Contribution to High-Rise Architecture
Released in 1943, Olytarzhevskiy's expertise was sought in the post-war era for the design of Moscow's famous skyscrapers. Although his own proposals were not realized, he collaborated with A. G. Mordvinov on the prestigious 'Hotel Ukraine.' Olytarzhevskiy's writings, such as 'Construction of High-Rise Buildings in Moscow,' significantly contributed to the understanding and implementation of these iconic structures.
Legacy and Resting Place
Vasily Olytarzhevskiy passed away in 1961 and was laid to rest in the renowned Vagankovo Cemetery. His architectural achievements, marked by innovation and a keen eye for urban planning, continue to inspire architects and urbanists around the world.
