New Tashkent Architectural Guidelines: Part 4 – Openings

In our previous New Tashkent Architectural Guidelines post, we explored the concept of Articulation—defined as the way building elements such as walls, columns, openings, materials, or volumes are joined, separated, or emphasised to enhance building clarity, expression, and form. A key focus of our Articulation Guidelines is the interface between buildings and the street—fostering a sense of human scale and walkability by breaking down the mass of buildings into smaller, more manageable components. This is achieved through techniques such as setbacks, vertical breaks, and recessed or projected elements. In this week’s first New Tashkent Architectural Guidelines post, we will explore Openings – which not only allow for light, ventilation, access, views and movement, but are also integral to creating a strong sense of architectural identity and connection to the surrounding environment.

A key focus for the development of our New Tashkent Architectural Guidelines is the interface between individual buildings and the street – in the case of the Openings Guideline, this means paying particular attention to semi-private thresholds such as building entries and lobbies. For example, residential entrances and lobbies function as key semi-private thresholds. More than just points of access, these spaces enhance street presence, cultivate a sense of community, and encourage interaction. They should be designed to welcome both residents and visitors, while also supporting passive surveillance to improve safety without compromising openness. Individual entrances offer opportunities for personalisation, making these spaces both secure and inviting.

Our guidelines place particular emphasis on two significant elements of Uzbek architecture: Arches and Screening. Rather than employing these features superficially or as pastiche, we advocate for a contemporary, thoughtful interpretation that honours their cultural and historical value. Arches, for instance, are a timeless feature that can meaningfully celebrate Uzbek heritage when applied with intent. The guidelines offer clear direction on incorporating arches in various contexts—whether to enhance the prominence of public buildings, lend distinction to residential façades on key sites, or frame important views. Crucially, arches should serve a functional purpose and align with the building’s contemporary materials and architectural expression.

As for application of Screening —a hallmark of Tashkent’s modernist architecture from the 1960s and 1970s—we encourage a modern reinterpretation that integrates new technologies with cultural references. For example, ventilated double-skin façades incorporating mesh elements, as an alternative to traditional glass façades, allow us to merge innovation with heritage. This approach supports the creation of buildings that are not only rooted in cultural identity, but also forward-looking, sustainable, and responsive to contemporary design needs. A key consideration in the Openings guideline was the role of orientation in determining the overall solid-to-void ratios along building frontages. South-facing elevations should feature a higher proportion of solid surfaces to account for increased sun exposure, while north-facing elevations should incorporate a higher proportion of voids to maximise natural light into interior spaces.

Balconies—an essential amenity in apartment buildings—are another key focus within the Openings Guidelines. They contribute to daylight optimisation and natural ventilation, and, where appropriate, can accommodate enclosed or semi-enclosed winter gardens, particularly in residential buildings fronting busy streets.

To promote walkability and highlight primary façades along key routes within the masterplan, the guideline also supports the strategic use of Arcades. These elements enhance the pedestrian experience by providing shelter from the elements, maintaining clear sightlines, and improving access to adjacent public spaces.

Ultimately, Openings are integral to both the functionality and aesthetics of architectural design. As a central element of the New Tashkent Architectural Guidelines, they serve to honour Uzbek heritage while supporting the evolution of a distinctive architectural language—one that balances tradition with sustainable, future-oriented design outcomes.