Almaty renovates building facades using modern materials amid nostalgia for shell stone
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Almaty has begun renovating facades of old residential buildings in the Almaly district using modern materials. This move contrasts with the city's historical use of shell stone for decoration. The decision reflects a shift in architectural preferences since the 1990s.
Historical Use of Shell Stone
In the early 1990s, shell stone was a prevalent material in Almaty for both construction and decoration. Notably, the Republic Palace, originally built to commemorate Lenin's centenary, incorporated shell stone alongside marble and granite. This limestone sediment, mixed with marine organisms, was widely used due to its ease of processing and local availability, particularly in the Mangystau region.
Architectural Shifts in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan's honored architect, Serik Rustembekov, recalls restrictions on materials like granite and marble during the Soviet era, which favored the use of shell stone. The material was easy to cut and process, making it a practical choice for facades and construction. However, post-1990s, the focus shifted to faster, cheaper construction and modern aesthetics, reducing the use of traditional materials like shell stone.
What's Next
Almaty continues to explore modern materials for urban development. It remains uncertain whether shell stone will regain popularity in future projects.
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Almaty renovates building facades using modern materials amid nostalgia for shell stone
