Almaty's Evolution: A Modern Metropolis Preserves its Rich Historical Legacy
Transformed Almaty: Reshaping Kazakhstan's Vibrant Cityscape
In the heart of Kazakhstan lies Almaty, a city bustling with development and transformation. This vibrant metropolis, known for its historical charm, has recently seen a surge in construction projects and real estate investments, reshaping both its economy and architecture. This article delves into the changing face of Almaty, focusing on its development, the preservation of historical sites, and the challenges that come with such growth.
Construction Galore in the Golden Square
For years, Almaty has been a hotspot for development, particularly in the Golden Square district. Neighborhoods bordered by Abai, Dostyk, Seifullin, and Al-Farabi have become hubs for various construction projects. Old administrative buildings are being renovated into luxury apartments, parks are filled with commercial objects, and new residential complexes are popping up where low-rise buildings once stood.
Investment in residential construction in Almaty surged to 280 billion tenge in the first half of 2024, despite continued demand for affordable housing[1]. The commercial real estate market has also grown significantly, with a 74.4% increase in service volume for office, warehouse, and retail spaces in the first half of 2024 compared to the previous year[2].
Struggle between Progress and History
The preservation of historical buildings and urban memory presents a unique challenge in Almaty. One contentious example is the "Akku" café, once a hub for the city's intelligentsia, now undergoing restoration by Mercury Properties. However, activists protest against the project, arguing that the heritage should remain untouched[3]. Meanwhile, other historical sites like Baum House and Sanatorium "Alatau" have been restored while maintaining their historical charm, serving as influential examples of balancing progress and history.
Future Skyscrapers and Public Spaces
Prominent projects like RAMS Beyond, a multifunctional skyscraper, and the third metro line, which will connect southern and northern districts, are set to transform Almaty's infrastructure. The reconstructed Promenade, now a modern business park with co-working spaces and gastronomic zones, demonstrates how large commercial real estate can adapt to new market demands, creating jobs and revitalizing urban environments.
However, the concentration of development in the city center exacerbates pressure on infrastructure, public spaces, and driving obligations. Balancing these demands requires careful planning to avoid creating an uneven urban landscape.
The Tug of War: Developers vs Residents
Urban development brings numerous benefits, but it also poses risks. The concentration of development exerts pressure on roads, parking, and engineering networks, leading to a shortage of public spaces and green zones. Social conflicts emerge between developers aiming to maximize every square meter and residents losing familiar places to live and relax.
Balancing Act: A City's Destiny
Almaty, with its rich history and ambitious development plans, faces a critical juncture. Its appearance in the coming decades hinges on the balance between maintaining its cultural memory, ensuring social well-being, and fostering economic growth. Examples such as the renovated "Akku" café, Baum's House, RAMS Beyond, and new metro stations offer hope for a harmonious coexistence of the old and the new.
In the next five years, Almaty is projected to remain the largest real estate market in the country while becoming denser and more diverse. The city center will witness further development, with high-rise complexes in place of old neighborhoods. However, projects aimed at preserving historical appearance, returning cultural spaces, and creating smaller formats to maintain a vibrant, dynamic city will gain momentum.
Sources:
- SHRE and DigitalBusiness data on residential construction investments
- Baker Tilly and Colliers data on commercial real estate services
- Liter.kz report on the "Akku" café restoration
- UNESCO Kazakhstan World Heritage Centre
- Almaty Railroad Bypass Project
- Union of Artisans in Kazakhstan
- Kazakhstan Cultural Heritage Fund
[1]: SHRE and DigitalBusiness data on residential construction investments[2]: Baker Tilly and Colliers data on commercial real estate services[3]: Liter.kz report on the "Akku" café restoration[4]: UNESCO Kazakhstan World Heritage Centre[5]: Almaty Railroad Bypass Project[6]: Union of Artisans in Kazakhstan[7]: Kazakhstan Cultural Heritage Fund
- Despite the renewed interest in investing in real-estate and commercial projects in Almaty, the restoration of historical buildings like the "Akku" café has sparked controversy, as activists argue for the preservation of the city's cultural heritage.
- The ongoing development in Almaty has led to a rise in demand for luxury apartments, office spaces, and retail areas, resulting in a significant growth in the city's commercial real-estate market. Meanwhile, efforts to maintain its historical charm are being made through projects like the reconstruction of Baum House and the Almaty Railroad Bypass Project.
