Almaty's 2024 facade overhaul blends history with modern upgrades
Almaty Plans Major Facelift for Residential Buildings in 2024
This year, Almaty is set to launch a large-scale renovation of residential building facades, the city administration (akimat) has announced. The primary goal is to refresh the exterior appearance of these structures while carefully preserving their historical character.
According to Asakhat Saduov, an architect and CEO of Almatygenplan, the initiative aims to enhance the city's architectural appeal while improving the functional performance of the buildings—including thermal and sound insulation, as well as moisture protection.
Priority will be given to late-1950s constructions whose facades are in urgent need of restoration. A key selection criterion is their location along major thoroughfares that shape the city's architectural identity. Design solutions will be developed with careful consideration of historical context and the existing urban ensemble.
The akimat has emphasized that all work will be carried out by qualified contractors under the direct supervision of the city's architecture and urban planning oversight departments.
Before any work begins, mandatory meetings with residents will be held for each building. These sessions will cover project timelines, address logistical concerns, and gather feedback and suggestions. Final design decisions will only be approved after incorporating input from homeowners. The primary tool for public engagement remains face-to-face meetings, where officials explain each phase of the project in detail and consider residents' proposals.
Dauren Agzymov, chairman of the Union of Stone Processing Industry of Kazakhstan, stressed the importance of material quality in the renovations. He noted that all materials must meet strict standards for durability, climate resistance, environmental safety, and compliance with current building codes.
"We carefully assess both the aesthetic qualities of the materials and their harmony with the building's architectural style," Agzymov said. The facades will be clad in microporous stone, which allows walls to "breathe," preventing moisture buildup and mold while providing excellent thermal and sound insulation. The final step in installation is hydrophobization—a special treatment that shields the facade from precipitation and significantly extends its lifespan.
By early 2026, three buildings had already been renovated: 126 Panfilov Street, 48 Zambyl Street, and 149 Nazarbayev Avenue. City officials report that these structures now form a cohesive and visually striking architectural ensemble.
Turar Rakhimberlin, an Almaty resident, shared his observations: "The city is transforming before our eyes—facades look neater, streets appear more polished and unified. This is especially noticeable along the central avenues, where a consistent architectural style is taking shape."
