Leanid Levin: We can’t build the new by destroying the old

No new worthy buildings have appeared in Minsk over the last years, famous Belarusan architect assumes.

In December 2012 chief Minsk architect stated about the introduction of a five-year moratorium on allocation of new investment building sites within the first hoist ring. Introduction of moratorium is explained by the necessity to develop architectural regulations on prospective investment territories, the need to decide on the territories and guard bands of historic landmarks.

And a year later Belarusan government gave a green light to a foreign private unitary enterprise “Minsk Princess Hotel” to build a five-star hotel in the city center. Unfortunately, the promises given by authorities were not fulfilled.

Leanid Levin, renowned Belarusan architect, coauthor of memorial complex Khatyn’, in the interview with the EuroBelarus Information Service shared his views on the new architecture in the Belarusan capital.

- Mr. Levin, what do you think about the violation of the moratorium?

- I have long ago stepped aside and I am not sure whether the violation of moratorium took place in this case. Still, I believe that we can’t build the new by destroying the old.

- Have anynew worthy buildings appeared in Minsk over the last years?

- I would say no, though it is my personal opinion. Everyone tries to show off; but forms that are used are worn; no one put his heart and soul into these buildings. There are lots of similar constructions all around the world.

- What do you think, is it European or Eastern architectural traditions that are more congenial to Minsk?

- Minsk has always has its individuality. Our city is similar neither to European nor to Asian cities. People, who loved and cared about Minsk, rebuilt the city after the war. And we have to cherish our capital.

- What should we do so that Minsk doesn’t lose its individuality and to stop the destruction of old architecture that takes place because of immediate interest and showing off?

- Unfortunately, people’s opinion is of low importance in Belarus, and often the fate of the city is decided by one-two people. Whereas such decisions should take into consideration advice of architects and even public advice.