Gorky+ is an arts festival dedicated to preserving Maxim Gorky’s legacy in contemporary culture. As part of this event, we decided to create a series of functional installations designed not only to transform the park but also to serve as a point of interaction and unity in remembrance of the great Russian writer. The visual language of our work lies in using the same form across all types of installations (a triangle with a curve along the outer long side) and utilizing the festival’s signature colors. This approach is simple, sustainable, and is perceived as a cohesive grouping of small architectural forms. When four structures of the same type are assembled, they form a distinctive «star» pattern.
Modular stylized blocks for the skate park are situated in the open area near the northern entrance. In addition to the skate plaza itself as an interactive element, this zone also features a «hall of fame» graffiti spot—where you can dip the wheels of your skateboard or rollerblades, or simply your hands, to leave bright, colorful flames on the asphalt that will wash away with the first rain.
The interactive installation is a stand designed to engage visitors in the process of creating a temporary work of art. Visitors are invited to dip a skateboard into paint and then leave a colored imprint of the wheels or deck on the surface of the plaza, thereby creating a collective artistic composition.
The ramp’s working surface is constructed from 18 mm moisture-resistant birch plywood (FSF), topped with a durable 9–12mm layer of laminated plywood, designed for outdoor use. The side panels are also made from 18 mm moisture-resistant plywood and feature decorative graphics applied to drywall. The upper platforms are equipped with metal guardrails, 1100 mm high, made from structural tubing. The coping is made from a 60 mm diameter steel pipe, ensuring a smooth transition for tricks. Installation of the ramp requires a level concrete base, with the structures secured using anchor bolts. All fasteners are recessed into the surface coating, ensuring safe operation. The applied materials exhibit high strength, resistance to mechanical stress, and weathering, which guarantees the structure’s durability and reliability.
Paint Station: The structure is constructed from metal tubing and mirrors the design of the railings used at the skate park, ensuring a cohesive architectural and artistic vision for the project. A chalkboard is mounted on the top, and beneath it is a wooden crate filled with various colors of chalk. Vertical holders are provided under the crate for temporary storage of skateboards. The construction utilizes structural steel tubing, moisture-resistant plywood for the crate, and metal fasteners. Galvanized M8–M10 bolts, nuts with nylon inserts, flat and spring washers, and anchor bolts are used for securing the structure to the concrete base. The primary frame elements are joined with welded seams, ensuring the structure’s strength and stability. The construction is designed for outdoor use and possesses high durability, resistance to mechanical loads, and resilience against atmospheric elements.
The next piece is a monolithic «reclining» seat based on our conceptual form. This design is for those who enjoy pausing to daydream, or simply relaxing during their journey. Another advantage is that the seat is quite lightweight because it’s made of plastic, allowing it to be freely moved across the area.
The seating is designed to create comfortable resting areas. The entire structure is made from dense plastic sheets, which possess high strength and resistance to mechanical stress. Using monolithic plastic as the primary material eliminates the need for additional protective paint, making the product resistant to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and ultraviolet radiation, ensuring a long service life in any climatic condition. The ergonomics of the seating are designed with long-term user presence in mind: the shape of the backrest and the geometry of the seat provide comfortable support. The smooth surface of the material is easy to clean of dirt and is resistant to external impacts, including graffiti.
Module assembly requires a prepared solid base (concrete or paved surface) with rigid fixation to the surface using anchor bolts. All fastening elements are integrated into the structure to remain hidden or flush, which ensures user safety and the object’s aesthetic completion. The materials used and the structural design guarantee high reliability, resistance to intensive use, and vandalism resistance for the construction.
The final piece in this collection of installations is a playground designed for the park’s youngest visitors. You can climb on it or descend from it in three ways: by climbing the sturdy ropes (on the curved side), by using the climbing wall, or by reaching the top via traditional vertical stairs.
The project is a children’s play complex composed of two functional modules unified by a cohesive aesthetic. The complex features climbing elements (a climbing wall), inclined surfaces with rope netting, and upper observation decks. The overall dimensions of the structure are: height—3200 mm, width—2375 mm, length—3900 mm. The structure is designed to support the active physical development of children, improve coordination and strength, and organize outdoor recreational activities. The load-bearing frame for all components is constructed from steel structural tubing with reinforced welded joints, ensuring high static load capacity and structural stability. To prevent corrosion and enhance the aesthetic appeal, the metal elements undergo sandblasting, priming, and application of durable powder coating in vibrant colors.
The complex’s side panels are constructed from durable sheet material (metal with polymer coating or compact laminate) with a minimum thickness of 4 mm and feature vibrant decorative graphics. The working surfaces include a rock climbing wall with anti-vandal grips, inclined planes fitted with tensioned rope netting for climbing, and horizontal platforms with non-slip surfacing. The upper tiers are equipped with metal railings and handrails made of stainless or painted steel, ensuring the safety of children while playing. Installation of the playground requires a level, prepared base (rubber surfacing, sand, or concrete) with the structures secured using anchor bolts. All fastening elements are recessed into the surface or covered with caps, eliminating the risk of injury. The construction has no sharp corners or protruding parts, and the materials used are highly durable, resistant to UV radiation and atmospheric exposure, which ensures longevity and safe operation.
