Derzhprom

Derzhprom is a monumental architectural monument of national significance, located on Freedom Square in the historical center of Kharkiv. This 13-story structure is the first Soviet skyscraper and one of the pivotal examples of the Constructivist style in world architecture. History and Construction The construction of the complex, prompted by the need to accommodate the governing bodies of the industrial sector and the Council of People's Commissars of the Ukrainian SSR (Kharkiv was the capital at the time), took place between 1925 and 1928. It was managed by engineer P. P. Rottert based on a design by architects Sergei Serafimov, Samuil Kravets, and Mark Felger. The grand opening took place on November 7, 1928. Construction was completed in a record-breaking 2.5 seasons, predominantly utilizing manual labor but employing the progressive "climbing formwork" technology of the time. This provided Derzhprom with the high monolithic strength of its reinforced concrete framework. From 1928 to 1934, the building housed the Council of People's Commissars of the Ukrainian SSR. Architecture and Characteristics The architectural style of Derzhprom aligns with the ideas of International Constructivism, emphasizing industrialization and functionalism. The complex consists of nine towers of varying heights (ranging from 6 to 13 stories) and three large blocks connected by overhead bridges at various levels. Height: 63 m (reaching 108 m including the television tower installed in 1954). Material: Monolithic reinforced concrete. Volume: 347,000 m³. Area: The usable floor space of the premises totals 60,000 m². Key Features: The building is equipped with 12 elevators, 7 of which have operated without replacement since the start of operation in 1928. The interior retains elements with the exclusive "DGP" relief branding. Contemporary Status Derzhprom has been listed in the State Register of Immovable Monuments of Ukraine under the category of national significance since 2018. In 2022, UNESCO included it on the International List of Cultural Property under Enhanced Protection. Despite an ongoing renovation process that began in 2001, the building sustained significant damage in 2022 and 2024 due to targeted Russian shellings. Currently, Derzhprom is used as a massive office complex, housing both public and private entities, including departments of the regional administration and the commercial court.