Innovative Yarangas, Residential “Icebergs” and Coastal Gardens - Young Architects Reimagine the Arctic

The results of the “Arctic. Reset” competition have been announced in Anadyr, the capital of Chukotka. The initiative aims to create a new quality of urban environment for the city. A dedicated track for young architects – students of the Moscow Architectural Institute – brought together 12 conceptual proposals.

The student track (“Conceptual Proposals for Mid-Rise Development, Ethno-Complexes and Urban Environment Design”) was organized by MARCHI and LLC “CENTER LAB”. The Laboratory awarded its special prize to the project “Ekven” (“Edge of the Earth”) by Shamsiddin Abdukarimov. Designed for the village of Tavayvaam near Anadyr, the concept proposes a system of buildings connected by heated walkways. The architecture reinterprets traditional northern dwellings while integrating contemporary functions – including winter gardens, schools, kindergartens, spa facilities and community spaces – creating a resilient and multifunctional urban environment.

In the Group Projects category, the winning concept was “Tirkytir” (“Sun”), developed by Arina Klyueva and Anna Nikishaeva for the Peschanaya Spit in western Anadyr. The proposal envisions an ethnographic village with residential clusters, multiple housing typologies, a landscaped waterfront and a stadium. The spatial composition draws on traditional ornament patterns, translating cultural identity into a modern urban framework.

In the Individual Projects category, the highest-scoring entry was “Siver” by Alexandra Pivovarova. The concept introduces seven types of modular housing units shaped like icebergs, connected by a wind-protected podium that accommodates public, social and commercial functions. The project demonstrates how architectural form can respond directly to extreme climatic conditions while supporting integrated development.

“Supporting emerging architects is critical. The Arctic represents high technology, new skills and future employment opportunities. We may be witnessing the beginning of careers for visionary architects who will shape the region’s development. As organizers, we are committed to scaling this approach,” said Andrey Skrylev, CEO of “Sever – Regional Development.”

According to Elena Chaika, Head of the Arktida Studio at MARCHI and initiator of the student track, the participants demonstrated a глубокое understanding of the territories: “Students approached the task with a high level of responsibility, studying and engaging with the context. This is essential, as each region requires its own architectural identity – achieved through an individual, context-driven approach.”

Ketevan Khelaia

CEO of LLC “CENTER LAB”

We believe that students – free from established conventions – are best positioned to generate breakthrough ideas that the Arctic urgently needs. Our role is to provide a platform that transforms bold visions into viable projects

In total, the “Arctic. Reset” competition received over 80 submissions from more than 20 cities across Russia. Full results are available on the official website:
arctic-arch.ru