Preserving Kyiv’s Architectural Legacy Amidst Strife

Lesia Danylenko is beaming with pride as she showcases her newly restored front door, which features an elegant transom window that volunteers affectionately dubbed the “croissant” due to its curved shape. “I see it more as a peacock,” she comments, admiring the intricate branch-like designs. This restoration initiative, set within one of Kyiv’s early 20th-century art nouveau buildings, was celebrated with community gatherings, serving as a symbol of resilience against the backdrop of war. Danylenko emphasizes, “We are striving to live our lives as normally as possible, despite the ongoing conflict. This effort represents our commitment to improving our lives and underlines our resolve to remain in Ukraine.”

Safeguarding the architectural heritage of Kyiv might seem incongruous in a city enduring regular attacks from Russian missiles and drones, yet this determination shines through. Since the beginning of 2025, the Kremlin has intensified its aerial assaults on the capital, leading to a rush of actions to board up shattered windows and salvage buildings whenever feasible.

Community Efforts to Preserve Kyiv’s Unique Structures

In the midst of turmoil, activists have rallied to protect Kyiv’s historic mansions, characterized by a playful style known as Ukrainian modernism. Danylenko’s residence, nestled in the central Shevchenkivskyi district, was erected in 1906 and initially served as the home of a prosperous fur trader. Its façade boasts stunning decorations that include horse chestnut leaves and delicate chamomile flowers.

“These buildings are emblems of Kyiv. They are becoming increasingly rare,” Danylenko remarks. The mansion was designed by Austrian-German architect Martin Klug, and several nearby structures exhibit captivating art nouveau features, such as asymmetry highlighted by a gothic tower on one side and a turret on the other. One beloved house in the vicinity is adorned with two melancholic white stucco cats alongside whimsical owls, masks, and even a devil.

Challenges in Preservation

However, the threat of loss extends beyond wartime devastation. Preservation advocates face off against unscrupulous developers who demolish listed buildings, as well as corrupt officials and a government sector that often appears indifferent to the city’s rich architectural legacy. The severe winter climate poses further challenges.

“Kyiv seems to favor financial interests over historical preservation. There’s a lacking political will to safeguard our heritage,” states Dmytro Perov, an activist from the Heritage Kyiv group. He claims that the city’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, has connections with developers responsible for the demolitions, stating, “Klitschko lives in an illegal building featuring a striptease club. His vision for our city seems stuck in a bygone era.” Klitschko challenges these allegations, attributing them to political opponents.

The Consequences of War and Development

Perov observes that many activists devoted to preserving older structures are now serving on the frontlines or have tragically lost their lives. The nearly four-year-long war has thrust financial hardships upon everyone, including judges whose rulings seem to favor questionable new construction. “The longer we endure this, the more we witness societal degradation and declines in our governing bodies,” he warns.

He took a reporter to one particularly egregious demolition site in the Podil neighborhood, which once featured classical 19th-century homes. A developer, having acquired the land, promised to maintain its stunning brick façade. Yet, just a day after Russia’s invasion in 2022, machinery dismantled it. Recently, construction crews began digging foundations for a new shopping complex.

The Struggle for Architectural Integrity

Anatolii Pohorily, a supporter of Heritage Kyiv, expressed skepticism for the future of the remaining turquoise-painted houses on the site. “Someday, developers might level historic properties under the guise of performing ‘archaeological research,’” he warned. The Soviet Union greatly damaged the city, reshaping its Khreshchatyk thoroughfare post-World War II to accommodate military vehicles.

One notable advocate for historic preservation, tour guide and blogger Serhiy Mironov, lost his life in 2022 while fighting in Bakhmut. His colleague, Nelli Chudna, currently leads a team of volunteers to continue Mironov’s vital work. Chudna points out that of the original 3,500 brick-built mansions in Kyiv, only about 80 of their original doors survive. “It wasn’t just Russian rockets that caused their decline. Our own choices played a role,” she expressed regretfully. Adding, “The war could extend for another two decades. If we don’t take action now, nothing will remain.”

Restoration as a Form of Healing

Chudna recently assisted in restoring a charming house from 1910, which serves as the headquarters for her True Kyiv organization, functioning also as a film set and museum. This property now features a vibrant red door, alongside vintage railings, and retains a period bathroom adorned with antique mirrors.

The building’s resident, artist Yurii Pikul, shared his thoughts, describing his home as “very cool and a little bit cold.” But he questions why many Ukrainians seem to undervalue their history. “Sadly, there’s a lack of education and appreciation. The focus has shifted to profit. We are trying to align ourselves with Western values, but we still have a long journey ahead,” he noted. The remnants of Soviet mindsets persist, contributing to a reluctance to take personal responsibility for their surroundings.

Some buildings suffer from neglect stemming from official indifference. Chudna highlighted a once-enchanting villa now obscured behind a modern hospital, which had fallen into disrepair with a collapsed roof and debris littering the area. “We don’t always achieve victory,” she acknowledged. “For us, restoration is a form of therapy. We are committed to preserving our history and the beauty that comes with it.”

Conclusion

Kyiv’s architectural heritage stands as a testament to its rich culture and history, and in these trying times, the dedication of its residents shines brightly. While facing the dual threats of war and development, community activists continue to fight for preservation, ensuring that the stories woven into the city’s fabric remain intact for future generations.

• Lesia Danylenko emphasizes resilience through restoration amid war.
• Community efforts aim to preserve Kyiv’s unique architectural heritage.
• Activists face challenges from developers and government indifference.
• Restoration efforts serve as healing and preservation of history.