Kineshma - the forgotten Volga capital of the Ivanovo region: A comeback of local identity

Abstract

The article dwells on anthropological research conducted in the city of Kineshma in August-September 2018. Step by step process of concept design of the territory is described - from formulation of tasks to specific decisions of architects. Key dominants of local identity that were registered in the resulting decisions are reviewed in detail. Selected examples demonstrate how the results of urban anthropology research influence a project, and how it is possible to focus on local identity in a small historical city. In the preliminary stage, the anthropological research serves as a part of a comprehensive analysis within the “Sociocultural uniqueness of project site and surrounding areas” section. It is, firstly, a study of the city as a whole (local identity of the city, key public spaces, main problems and demands city dwellers), and secondly, a study of selected public spaces, of local identity and problems of specific locations, and a description of typical usage scenarios for further development of envisioning selected areas. The findings of this research have influenced the choice of priority areas for improvement, including Revolution Square. Among the most significant results that influenced the concept design, one could name the residents’ (mainly experts’) perception of Kineshma as a merchant city and the significance of its historical architecture. Specifics of the city being situated on the banks of the Volga and of its connection with the river are also highlighted. As far as concept design is concerned, special attention was paid to the dominants of local identity through color lighting in the style of Kustodiev and memorial indications of lost churches and trade pavilions.