Printing plant of "Ogonyok" magazine

The printing plant of Ogonyok magazine is a five-story building on 1st Samotechny Lane featuring stark geometric forms made of concrete and glass. The structure displays typical features of Soviet avant-garde design with straightforward, linear forms and no decorative excess.

The building was completed between 1930 and 1934 and initially served as the printing center for Ogonyok magazine. From 1938 onward, Soviet security agencies occupied the structure, fundamentally changing its role.

The building shows how Soviet designers connected function and beauty in everyday work spaces. The clean lines and open layout reflect the belief that thoughtful design should serve all people, not just the wealthy.

The building is visible from the street and stands out for its geometric facade in a central location of the district. After renovation in recent years, the structure operates as a mixed-use space and remains active and accessible.

El Lissitzky designed several buildings for Soviet industry, yet only this project was actually built. It remains the sole surviving structure that realizes his architectural vision from that period.

Location: Tverskoy District

Inception: 1930

Architects: El Lissitzky

Official opening: 1932

Architectural style: constructivist architecture, constructivism

GPS coordinates: 55.77728,37.61083

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:08