NAGATINO i-LAND BIRDWORLD
Year: 2020–2022
Client: Etalon Group
Location: Moscow, Nagatino Ai-Land Residential Complex
Area: 0.4 hectares
Stages: Implementation / Concept + Design Documentation + Author's Supervision
Authors: Sergey Markov, Alexey Afonichkin, Anastasia Medvedeva, Alexandra Vyvorotnyuk, Polina Vitaleva, Anastasia Zotsina
The "Birdworld" courtyard was completed in 2022 as part of the first phase of the large-scale Nagatino i-Land residential complex development project, covering 11 hectares.
A distinctive feature of the residential complex's development is its metaphorical imagery and evocative names, which shape the identity of the entire area. In naming the Nagatino i-Land complex, developer Etalon Group drew inspiration from its location — the complex is surrounded by water on three sides. The names of the courtyard areas also vividly visualize these images: "World of Birds," "Lost City," "Living Hills," "Sleeping Volcano," "Wild Beach," the "Jungle" playhub, and the "Rivers" boulevards.
Each courtyard and boulevard within the residential complex is themed to differentiate residents from one another, allowing them to identify their building not only by its house number but also by the visual appearance of the surrounding area and landscape. This type of development, which incorporates vibrant storytelling, a well-developed comprehensive concept for the entire residential complex, and customized small architectural forms, is unique even in Moscow.
The "Birdworld" courtyard differs from the other courtyards in the complex because it is not located on a stylobate, allowing us to plant numerous mature trees and shrubs. In selecting the plants, we were inspired by murmuration — a phenomenon in which birds flock together to form dynamic formations. Rowan leaves, the crests of flowering knotweed, and the fluffy tufts of feather grass and barley will support the courtyard's theme and evoke the outlines of wings and feathers.
CONCEPT
The master plan for the "Birdworld" courtyard (development site 1.4) is shaped like a nest; all the hardscape, areas, and flowerbeds echo this design and have rounded outlines. And yes, birds actually live here: birdhouses and fruit trees are integrated into the grounds to attract birds, allowing residents to feed them and for children to develop environmental awareness from an early age.
The grounds feature three functional zones: playgrounds for children of all ages, a sports field, and a quiet area with shaded pergolas and comfortable lounge chairs. The zones are defined by landscaping, with mature trees and shrubs acting as a natural barrier. The greatest concentration of plants is in the recreation area, creating a secluded and relaxing atmosphere.
The playgrounds continue the bird theme: the play structure is a large "nest," and the playhouses, designed according to our plans, are shaped like birdhouses. The playground utilizes both individual and standard Russian-made equipment — the parents' rest area features comfortable benches with charging stations under a private shade canopy.
PUBLICATIONS
AWARDS
Bronze Diploma.
Best Completed Integrated Residential Improvement Project
with an Area of Less Than 1 Hectare.
2023
Honorary Diploma.
100 Best Public Space Designs.
2025
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