Socialist classicism ensemble

One of the largest examples of Socialist classicism architecture in Kharkiv is the complex at Heroes of Kharkiv Avenue, 96 and 96A.

^{Heroes of Kharkiv Avenue, 96A.} ^{Photo: Ivan Ponomarenko, 2017}

According to architect Oleksander Leibfryd, construction of the first building (№ 96) began in 1936 based on a design by architect A. Lyubarsky, and it was completed in the 1950s based on a revised design by architects V. P. Kostenko and Y. N. Chebotarev.

^{Heroes of Kharkiv Avenue, 96.} ^{Photo: Ivan Ponomarenko, 2017}

The building №96 is connected to the larger post-WWII building №96A, which differs from it in style and is notable for its large arch.

Both buildings are architectural landmarks.

The building’s impressive height (11 stories) and beautiful interior design immediately catch the eye. It was designed by architects V. Donskoy, V. Vyrodov, and A. Bondarenko.

In some places, the original balconies have been preserved, although, of course, the glassed-in “birdhouses” from 1990s detract from the building’s original appearance.

The building’s windows were damaged as a result of Russian missile strikes in 2022 and 2024.