Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center

Jewish Museum is an absolute must see for those who love architecture. Located in a building constructed by Melnikov and Shukhov it combines brilliant example of constructivism and cutting-edge exhibition space. 

Moscow’s avant-garde landmarks, Bakhmetevsky Bus Garage was constructed by Konstantin Melnikov in the 1920s. Its brick and mortar walls and unique free-flow roof structure form huge open space served as a garage for decades.

Trusses supported by 18-the thin metal columns retain the roof over 8500 sqm. This is one of the last big projects of eminent engineer Schukhov.

Each of façades is different which is defined not only by function but also is a Melnikov’s idiom. 

Renovation made in the 2000s unfortunately brought some unpleasant changes. Ugly plastic windows make a dissonance with historic walls.

Inside there is a dynamic exhibition space consisting of diagonal and inclined white walls beautifully contrasting with red brick walls.

Exposition contains not only the history of Jewish diaspora but also an avant-garde center devoted to constructivists’ époque. The lectures, seminars and workshops are carried out to help learning this movement.

Here is a good article about Bakhmetevsky Garage

http://archvestnik.ru/new/files/2045%20vorontz-meln%2034-43.pdf

Evgeniya Frolova

IAD Level 5