Konstantinovsky Congress Center, St. Petersburg, Russia

” Erick van Egeraat associated architects design of the Konstantinovsky Congress Center in Russia
The Konstantinovsky Congress Centre is a 21st century addition to Niccolo Michetti’s sophisticated 18th century scheme for the grand Konstantinovsky palace. Striving to enrich the scheme, Erick van Egeraat adopts Micheti’s principles and extends the famous landscape grid to the plot of the new Conference Centre.
Michetti’s scheme sets the framework for the design of the Congress Centre and its position in the landscape. Out of respect for the heritage of Konstantinovsky Palace, Erick van Egeraat conceals the scale of the building programme. Parts of the building, including spa, business club, conference area and press room are embedded into a hill. Daylight is ensured by glass-roofed patios.

The main functions tower above the hill and are covered by a tripartite, seashell-like, seemingly floating roof. Varying in size, each roof segment represents one main function - congress hall, chamber hall, enclosed by the multi-functional foyer. Elevated above the foyer is a separate VIP area, which can be reached via a dedicated car driveway on the roof. This preserves and, if possible, reinvigorates the splendour of Michetti’s design by minimising the visual impact of the building and extending the existing landscape. Like a hidden treasure, the building reveals itself only to those who enter.”