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Almaty's renowned 'Three Knights' residential complex, located on Dostyk Avenue, was slated for renovation seven years ago. The project has resurfaced, with the city administration opting to restart the process after an initial design competition. Tengrinews.kz investigates why the original concept was shelved and when the facade of the 12-story buildings will shed its current chaotic appearance.

The Fate of a Historic Building

The 'Three Knights' residential complex is one of Almaty's earliest high-rise buildings, constructed in the 1970s during the redevelopment of Lenin Avenue, now Dostyk Avenue. The complex consists of three 12-story towers connected by a two-story stylobate, designed by architects B. Churlyaev and A. Petrov.

In 2019, the Almaty city administration launched a competition for the best sketch to renovate the historic building's facade. The winning design came from 25-year-old Almaty resident Yerlan Muratbek. His concept included installing soundproofing and sound-reflecting panels on the balconies to conceal air conditioning units.

Muratbek anticipated the implementation phase to begin in 2020. His winning sketch was presented for approval to the Almaty Mayor, with plans to subsequently develop project documentation and determine the construction budget. However, nearly six years have passed, and the building remains in its original state.

Seven Years Later: What Does the Original Designer Say?

Tengrinews.kz contacted Yerlan Muratbek, the winner of the design competition, to understand why his vision hasn't materialized.

According to Muratbek, unforeseen circumstances, including the pandemic and the January 2022 events, led to the project being largely forgotten. However, the primary obstacle was the city administration's requirement to obtain 100% consent from all residents.

"In 2020, COVID began, followed by the January events in 2022. Everything was forgotten. Recently, I spoke with the residents of the complex. It turns out the administration demanded 100% signatures from residents for the renovation. This is practically impossible, as some people rent out their apartments, others are not in the city. It's impossible to gather everyone for signatures. This is one of the main reasons for the lack of repair work," Muratbek explained.

The architect acknowledged that his perspective on the project has evolved over the seven years.

"I would be happy to participate as a consultant or in developing a new project. My view on the project has changed slightly over seven years. Considering what's happening at the Auezov Theatre, one wonders if one should be involved in everything," he shared.

What Does the City Administration Say?

In response to Tengrinews.kz's inquiry, the apparatus of the Akim of the Moscow District stated that the 'Three Knights' residential complex is included in the consolidated list of facilities requiring facade renovation.

"Technical inspection and the development of project-estimate documentation are planned for this year," the administration reported.

The press service of the Almaty city administration clarified that the winning project from 2019 will not be used. The reconstruction will proceed based on a new, yet-to-be-developed sketch.

Architect Yerlan Muratbek stated he was unaware of the administration's new plans. He believes his original concept has lost its relevance. "I didn't know about this. I don't have copyright, and it has lost its relevance. I was paid at the time. Moreover, I no longer have the necessary licenses to develop project-estimate documentation," Muratbek said.

The Current State of the 'Three Knights' Complex

A Tengrinews.kz correspondent visited the 'Three Knights' complex to assess its current condition.

The building's facades have significantly faded, with paint peeling in places. Graffiti and signs of wear are visible on the walls in some areas.

The balconies of the residential complex are haphazardly glazed, with each apartment having its own solution: some feature plastic windows, others have old wooden frames, and some balconies remain open. The stairwells leading to the entrances also require repair, with sections of the steps crumbling.

The lower platform connecting the three towers appears neglected and is in clear need of renovation. After more than fifty years, the historic building is undeniably in need of a facelift. There is hope that the administration's plans this time will be realized, and the legendary 'Three Knights' complex will finally acquire its renewed appearance.

Read also: "A theater should not age." Will the Youth Theater named after Zhas Sarai retain its appearance in Almaty?