Alexander Garden, Nizhny Novgorod

For the 800th anniversary of Nizhny Novgorod, the city underwent significant transformations. Focusing on the urban environment, which is only part of a broader development program encompassing all aspects of life in Nizhny, numerous public spaces were either restored or newly created. Extensive work was carried out to revitalize the architectural heritage. Wowhaus was engaged to rethink and rejuvenate one of the city’s key locations which is the legendary Nizhny Novgorod Alexander Garden.

Alexander Garden is the first public park in the history of Nizhny Novgorod, traditionally considered to have been established in 1835. Since the 1990s, the space had almost disappeared from urban life. Overgrown areas, broken paths and stairways, and damaged infrastructure left this unique garden-park site in a state of neglect until recently. It was necessary to revive the historical urban location and restore the ways it had been used in the past.

All the park infrastructure was completely restored. Pedestrian paths and stairways were renovated, and new elements were introduced, including gazebos, a workout area, and observation platforms with fresh viewpoints. A series of wooden arches was installed along one of the main alleys.

In addition, the park has revived the historic “Shell” stage (1958), which burned down in the 1990s. It has been reconstructed with a modern design while preserving its original function which is providing access to culture within the city’s public space. The stage will become an important focal point and an alternative to commercial venues.