Scandalous demolition of "Kyivproekt": Developer explained the necessity of dismantling the modernist high-rise

Scandalous demolition of "Kyivproekt": Developer explained the necessity of dismantling the modernist high-rise

The developer explained why the modernist high-rise "Kyivproekt" on Bohdan Khmelnytskyi Street is being completely demolished. The demolition work, initiated by Andriy Vavrysh’s SAGA Development and Perfect Group, has already sparked controversy, as the public noted that only remnants of the stylobate remain in place of the building that once dominated the center of Kyiv. According to Vavrysh, the building is technically outdated and unsuitable for modern use.

Andrii Vavrysh, the founder and head of Saga Development, discussed the necessity of fully demolishing the "Kyivproekt" structure in an interview with LIGA.net. According to him, the building from the 1970s, which did not hold protected status, is neither technically nor technologically "developed" and is simply a "prefabricated reinforced concrete frame" without any parking spaces.

"We examined the possibility of not demolishing it. Theoretically, it could have been clad, the facades replaced, but one thing couldn’t be changed – air conditioning installations for the "computer" were placed where the parking should have been, and an entire floor was designed for them," Vavrysh explained in the interview.

He stated that rebuilding such a structure would not be difficult, but constructing a proper parking lot underneath it would be impossible. Therefore, the decision was made to erect a new building with the same external volume but with a two-level underground parking facility that can accommodate 780 cars.

"When we began demolition, we saw that all the floors had metal bandages holding the structure. Some floors, constructed from very strong concrete, appeared bluish. Others were weak, so strengthening was necessary. The engineering systems, ventilation, and air conditioning had not worked since the 90s. Everything had rotted," Vavrysh reported.

According to the developer, the completion of the project will take another 2-2.5 years. Its most challenging stages will be the demolition and excavation (since there are many landmarks nearby as the "Kyivproekt" is located in the center on Taras Shevchenko Boulevard and occupies half a block). Vavrysh assured that the original project author, the company "Kyivproekt," supports the demolition of the old building.

The founder and head of Saga Development also reminded what will be inside the building. Its primary function will not be residential – inside, there will be offices, public spaces, dining establishments, sports, wellness, and spa facilities. Vavrysh emphasized that the goal is to create a durable building with new systems, designed for 30–50 years of operation without constant repairs.