Cultural Cluster in Kaliningrad: Testing Piles at the Bolshoi Theatre and the Main Staircase of the Tretyakov Gallery

In Kaliningrad, piles are being tested on the site of the future branch of the Bolshoi Theatre as part of site investigation. The works were commenced in September. Rod diesel hammers are used at the site. The piles are installed at a depth of 26-27 m.

To reduce the construction time and provide a high safety margin of the foundation, pin joints are used. This structure is buried in the ground and interconnected using a grillage. The technology ensures the correct load distribution, prevents cracking and poor contraction of the foundation.

It is no secret that there are soil constraints on Oktyabrsky Island in Kaliningrad where construction is underway, so all expected load parameters and the corresponding engineering solutions are estimated at the project definition stage. In addition to pile installation works, C.R.P. tests are performed to determine the scope of works at the next stage.

The architectural concept provides that the theatre building shaped as a hyperbolic paraboloid will have three zones, public spaces, a stage complex and office premises. The large hall will have 950 seats and there will be 300 seats in the small one, a summer stage is provided on the roof. The design of the future branch of the Bolshoi Theatre in Kaliningrad was developed by the Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta and the Russian designer GORKA Group is responsible for adapting it to Russian conditions and standards.



In addition, the concrete foundation of the main staircase has been prepared at the future branch of the Tretyakov Gallery. The bird's-eye view clearly shows the unique edgy shape of this interior element. The Museum Complex’ main staircase is more than 7 meters high and slightly less than 20 m wide. 204 cubic meters of concrete was used to build the staircase.

The designed structure connects the first floor with the exhibition and public space on the third floor. However, it is not only designed for walking. In addition to its main purpose, the main staircase is a central interior element and decoration of the entrance area of the Museum. The staircase will be finished with parquet and boards of natural light colours.

The architectural concept provides that the structure, for all its ponderosity and solidity, seems to float in the air. This effect is created by only two supporting points at the bottom and on top of the structure.
In addition, the Museum has a multi-purpose interior of the entrance area. Steps of the main staircase can be used for lectures, master classes or relaxation.