Dom-utyug, Viborg

Dom-utyug is a corner residence in Vyborg, Russia, with a striking triangular form dominated by a tower-like structure at its sharp angle. The granite facade features decorated balconies with ornate railings and three gabled roofs, while the ground floor housed shops and offices with individual entrances and the upper levels contained apartments overlooking the Southern Harbor.

Architect Eduard Dippell designed this structure in 1898 following the demolition of Vyborg's medieval fortress fortifications. It was part of an urban strategy to create an attractive maritime facade and frame the old quarters with modern architecture.

The building's name "Dom-utyug" means "Iron House" in Russian, referring to its distinctive triangular shape that resembles a pressing iron. The structure shows how the city transformed its appearance after the fortress was demolished, with new buildings replacing military fortifications.

The building sits directly on the Southern Harbor and is easy to spot from the street, particularly when viewed from the side where its triangular form becomes most visible. The best time for photographs is during daylight from various angles to capture the different perspectives and proportions of the structure.

From certain viewing angles, one wall of the building appears completely flat and two-dimensional, as if the structure nearly vanishes from that perspective. This optical effect results from the clever design of the corner and is an unexpected architectural feature that catches many visitors by surprise.

Location: Vyborg

Inception: 1898

Architects: Carl Eduard Dippell

Architectural style: Gothic Revival, national Romantic style

Part of: Vyborgskaya Street (Luostarinkatu) in Vyborg

GPS coordinates: 60.71194,28.73000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:48