Author: Albina Khuzina
Mentor: Ainur Koskina
Every year, the city loses several examples of wooden and brick architecture, along with its cultural spirit and potential tourist attractions.
Many old buildings are being buried beneath the foundations of new high-rises, business centers, cafés, and banks — crushing the dream of local heritage enthusiasts for an authentic historic city center. If this trend continues, Kazakhstan’s cultural and historical gem could be left with no history at all.
Semey has 38 officially recognized heritage buildings protected by the state.
Yet despite their status, some architectural masterpieces remain unprotected under the pressure of commercial development.
Who sees potential in these buildings? Are investors ready to “reimagine” the architectural past? And who is the better manager for the city — government or private business?
Articles prepared by the project resident: