Kola Bay Lighthouse Viewpoint
Perched on a hillside above the Kola Bay, just a five-minute walk from a
residential neighborhood, a new visual landmark has emerged. Commissioned by
the Murmansk Regional Government as part of the “Living in the North” program,
the project establishes a modern recreational space delicately integrated into the
natural landscape of a green hill. The observation deck’s silhouette pays homage
to the region’s industrial heritage, echoing the monumental port cranes and
lighthouses dotted along the coastline. The architects reimagined this familiar
aesthetic: the rigorous machine geometry acquires warmth and nobility through
the use of natural materials and a human scale.
Timber serves as the primary form-giving element of the project. The pavilion is
constructed using intricate wood joinery, virtually eliminating the need for metal
fasteners. This engineering solution guarantees durability in a harsh climate while
emphasizing the project’s ecological purity.
The structure accommodates diverse leisure scenarios throughout the seasons.
The lower level is equipped with benches and a terrace, allowing visitors to savor
every ray of the northern sun. The upper level unfolds a breathtaking panorama
of the water’s expanse. The environment is imbued with thoughtful details that
cultivate a positive emotional experience—such as a small tower where pets can
safely wait for their owners. Furthermore, the strategic layout of the landscaped
territory carefully concentrates visitor flows, thereby protecting the fragile
ecosystem of arctic mosses on the slope from excessive human intrusion.
Thanks to its elevated position, the observation deck serves as a clear
architectural beacon. Its expressive silhouette is easily visible from afar,
symbolizing the qualitative transformations of the urban environment. This new
destination has become a vital focal point, offering residents a comfortable and
engaging way to interact with the waterfront.
Project Team
Evgeny Makarenko (Lead Architect), Alexey Ushakov (Architect), Sergey Serov (3D
Visualization), Oleg Lelyuk (Timber Structural Engineer), Pavel Zhadinsky
(Concrete Structural Engineer)
