How might the appearance of Kazakhstan's cities change in the coming decades?

Renowned Kazakhstani architect Nurlan Kamitov, founder of INK Architects, honorary member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), academician of IAAM, and honorary member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), shared insights on the latest trends in urban architecture worldwide and in Kazakhstan.

Trend 1: Compactness and Multifunctionality

The demand for pedestrian-friendly, human-centric, compact, and safe urban spaces is growing worldwide, including in Kazakhstan, according to Nurlan Kamitov.

He noted that compared to the large-scale Soviet-era urban planning, neighborhoods are becoming more compact and human-scaled. This also applies to vast Soviet squares, which need to be reformatted according to new realities and people’s needs for effective space planning.

Examples of such spaces include historic districts in European cities that were developed before the automobile era.

In Almaty, this can be seen in the so-called Golden Square district, while in Astana, the historic right-bank area exhibits similar characteristics, featuring more pedestrian crossings and accessibility.

According to Kamitov, livable neighborhoods should have optimal building parameters for the convenience of residents and visitors. For example, the width of a courtyard should not be less than the height of the buildings to avoid the "well effect." Additionally, such areas should include more green and recreational spaces, intimate courtyards with public and private zones for social interaction, pedestrian accessibility to key buildings, and well-developed social infrastructure with service facilities.

Kamitov also pointed out that in the past, life in megacities—including work, education, and entertainment—was concentrated mainly in city centers. However, in recent years, especially post-pandemic and with technological advancements, this model is gradually becoming obsolete.

"Decentralization and balanced functional distribution are new trends that gained momentum during the pandemic," says the architect. "Today, people seek to live, work, relax, and grow within their own neighborhoods. As a result, new districts are no longer planned according to the Soviet principle of separating residential areas from industrial zones but rather based on multifunctionality and walkable accessibility to essential services."

For instance, Paris is actively implementing the 15-minute city model, which promotes a more ecological, safe, and convenient urban environment. These areas restrict car access, allocate more space for cyclists, and increase green areas and parks. Additionally, public schools incorporate green and sports facilities accessible to all residents.

In Barcelona, former traffic lanes have been repurposed into play areas, pedestrian pathways, rest zones, benches, and greenery.

A similar approach is being applied in Almaty, where polycentric districts are being developed, allowing residents to work, study, and relax in their own areas without the need to commute to the city center. INK Architects is actively working on parts of these polycentric districts.

New neighborhoods are expected to have well-developed infrastructure with key facilities such as schools, kindergartens, clinics, parks, sports centers, commercial spaces, markets, pharmacies, cafes, and restaurants.

This is especially relevant for the suburbs of Almaty, which require better social infrastructure, workspace availability, attractive housing for various family types, pedestrian-friendly streets, and access to local employment, recreation, and entertainment.

Trend 2: Identity

According to the expert, people today seek a recognizable and meaningful spatial identity with which they can connect. However, modern urban planning sometimes disrupts this sense of community by creating generic, characterless spaces.

"In reality, districts should be compact and village-like in scale. At the same time, each area should have its own unique identity and name, linked to its history or local landmarks. This is why navigation systems, architecture referencing local details and history, and ornamental designs are becoming more prominent. People are increasingly drawn to cultural patterns, and national motifs are becoming more visible in urban environments," says Nurlan Kamitov.

International examples include distinct districts in major cities such as Soho and Hackney in London or Manhattan and Brooklyn in New York. In Almaty, notable areas include the Financial Center, the Golden Square district, and various residential microdistricts. INK Architects is incorporating unique identities into new polycentric districts, such as the Eastern and Western Gates of Almaty and the new Chirchik district project in Tashkent.

Trend 3: Micromobility and Vision Zero

The architect predicts an increase in roundabouts and circular intersections in cities, improving traffic safety and efficiency. Additionally, the expansion of cycling infrastructure and dedicated lanes for alternative transport will create more comfortable conditions for cyclists, e-scooter users, and other micromobility solutions.

Overall, Kamitov believes that public transportation will become more accessible and diverse in the coming decades. The number of routes will increase, new transport types will emerge, and existing lines will be modernized to enhance passenger experience.

For example, INK Architects is designing such conditions in Almaty's new polycentric district—Western Gate—by incorporating accessible public transport routes and stops. Future districts will include cycling infrastructure, small roundabouts at intersections to eliminate traffic lights and reduce congestion while increasing safety.

New districts should also feature wider pedestrian sidewalks, dedicated public transport lanes, separated bike lanes, and green landscaping.

"A well-designed urban environment can regulate vehicle, scooter, and bicycle speeds, improving pedestrian safety and comfort. This, in turn, increases the profitability of commercial spaces, raises property values, and stimulates small business and entrepreneurship along pedestrian flows. Walkable and inviting districts are valued higher than car-centric areas," Kamitov explained.

Moreover, developing alternative mobility options enhances foot traffic for businesses and dining establishments. For instance, Almaty's Timiryazev Street has seen an increase in active storefronts due to improved pedestrian-friendly environments and the implementation of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line.

Sources:
https://standard.kz/ru/post/2025_03_kak-mozet-izmenitsia-oblik-gorodov-kazaxstana-v-blizaisie-desiatiletiia-324
https://ult.kz/post/aldagy-onzhyldyktarda-kazakstan-kalalarynyn-kelbeti-kalay-ozgerui-mumkin-sarapshynyn-kozkarasy
https://matritca.kz/kak-mojet-izmenitsia-oblik-gorodov-kazahstana-v-blijaishie-desiatiletiia-vzgliad-eksperta/