Residents initiated the improvement project by approaching the local administrative authority. Architects, sociologists, ecologists and other specialists examined the area and drew up a plan to remove household waste and silt deposits and landscape the overgrown riverbanks for public recreation. Restoring the site’s natural balance to support its flora and fauna was key. Residents’ suggestions in a consultation process fed into the design. Features include an amphitheatre, pergolas, swings and bridges, with wind-felled trees and laser-cut metal stele as art objects. Materials were locally sourced. The village’s metal- and wood-cutting workshops gained competitive advantage through their involvement. Benches were made of timber salvaged from demolished log-buildings. Muslyumovo was recognised in 2017 as Russia’s best-maintained village, largely due to villagers’ efforts.

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture