Kazakhstan is defined by vast steppes, high mountains, and deep canyons, while Almaty’s identity comes from its grid, boulevards, parks, courtyards, and the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains.
The Western Gate transforms a 600 m-square site into a bold, contemporary, human-centred urban quarter, with a diagonal seismic fault dividing the site into two triangles and shaping a dynamic topography. Taller buildings rise toward the corners, balancing presence with seismic safety.
The South Ridge forms a prominent commercial spine opposite Almaty Arena, with terraced buildings that maximize daylight, mountain views, and passive environmental performance. Street level retail, cafés, and restaurants animate the district, while a landmark hotel anchors the corner.
Fritted glass, stepped massing, and resilient structural systems ensure comfort, sustainability, and iconic urban form.
The North Ridge offers a quieter residential environment along secondary streets. South-facing terraces, shared courtyards, rooftop gardens, and winter gardens provide daylight, natural ventilation, and comfort year-round. Ground-level amenities and pocket parks foster a walkable, human-scale neighborhood, while dual-season winter gardens enhance usability and sustainability.
Valley Park traces the seismic fault as a continuous landscape spine. Cascading lakes, water features, pedestrian bridges, and rock-shaped pavilions link commercial and residential areas, integrating the mosque and connecting to wider green corridors. Native alpine and sub alpine flora—including Tien Shan spruce, wild apple, apricot, juniper, and barberry—provides shade, biodiversity, and a resilient, low-maintenance landscape. The Valley Park is a vibrant, year-round public realm, supporting recreation, social interaction, and ecological richness.
This strategy creates a legible, iconic urban form that celebrates Almaty’s natural forces, enhances livability, and establishes a distinctive gateway to the city—merging civic identity, architectural ambition, and ecological sensitivity.