In 2021, many fans of modernist architecture were shocked by the news of the demolition of the “Flowers of Ukraine” building in Kyiv. At that time, only a determined campaign by activists to have the 1985 building added to the list of architectural landmarks saved it from complete demolition. This example highlighted a pressing issue: in the public consciousness, the term “architectural landmark” is typically applied to buildings from 40 to 50 years ago, which are associated with Socialist Classicism style, Constructivist architecture and most of all—with pre-WWI buildings. But time marches on, and now buildings from the 1980s are turning 40 years old or more, many of which fully deserve the status of architectural landmarks. One such building is Kindergarten No. 119 at Dehtiarna Street, 37, Kharkiv.
It was built in 1986 by the Kharkiv State Design Institute.
The kindergarten’s website lists a group of architects led by I. I. Zhezhera as the project’s designers. However, architectural modernism researcher Olexandra Gubkina identifies the architect V. Menzheleev as the designer of the project and lists the years of construction as 1990–1991.
This is late-period brick modernism, with hints of postmodern architecture. Structurally, the building consists of six two-story wings “strung” along a single axis—a design that was quite common among soviet kindergartens and ensured good lighting inside the rooms.
The facades of the house don’t feature mosaics or bas-reliefs, but its design—with the interplay of straight lines and curved elements—creates a very unique rhythm. The fence and gazebo in the courtyard were built in the same style as the building. The brickwork features a two-tone color scheme and looks flawless, as if the building had just been completed yesterday.
Now the building houses Pre-School Education Institution (nursery-garden) No. 119 of the Kharkiv City Council. Lovers of architectural modernism are highly recommended to see it.
- Kindergarten No. 119 - 30.10.2026
- "Noah's Ark" - 21.10.2026
- Blackie’s House on Maksymilianivska St - 19.10.2026