Советский модернизм

State Library, Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, 1975 . Ashgabat Parthenon is how I named this building in my original review. In ancient times here, within the territory of modern day Turkmenistan, Parphia Kingdom stood. The base of the building contains Parphia Cafe. This name is also shared by the sculptural composition in the round courtyard. The library stands with dignity on the city square, and the frequent rhythm of its columns adds solemnity. The entire building, including its sur- rounds – access terraces, fountain bowls, and sculptural compositions – are of cast-in-place concrete. The inte- riors are unusual, too. They are defined by vegetation and movable partitions. Broad stairs connect various levels, and the reading rooms face three inner courtyards where greenery, water, and sophisticated sculptural forms create a unique and playful atmosphere. The building has been distorted through remodeling. F. Novikov architects – A. Akhmedov, B. Shpak, V. Alekseev, sculptors – V. Kosmachev

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