Narkomfin

The Narkomfin Building in Moscow, designed by architect Moisei Ginzburg and completed in 1932, is an iconic example of early Soviet avant-garde architecture. It was intended to embody the principles of communal living and functionalist design promoted by the Constructivist movement. The Narkomfin Building was commissioned by the Soviet government to house employees of the People's Commissariat of Finance (Narkomfin). The architectural design was influenced by the ideas of communal living and social equality prevalent in the early years of the Soviet Union. The building features innovative design elements, such as communal spaces, shared kitchens, and terraces, aimed at fostering a sense of community among its residents. While not explicitly feminist, the idea of shared spaces for housework, and therefore shared labour, falls within the ideals of a feminist space. The units were kept only for

sleeping and working, so no hierarchy and a communitization of house chores. Putting men and women

at the same level in theory. To ensure easy cleaning, it had no wallpaper or molding, and every room had rounded angles, matte finishings, and pivot windows. Most of the furniture was built in or retractable.

Ginzburg suggested combining, in the same building, different apartment types, differing in the level of privacy, ranging from three- and two-room apartments for families with children to one-room apartments and dormitories for singles and childless couples. The sense of community was fostered by joint use of circulation areas, and communal spaces and facilities, such as dining halls, kitchens and bathrooms, to encourage residents accustomed to old, family-based, lifestyles, to transition to collective modes of living. While the original vision of the Narkomfin Building emphasized communal living, the actual implementation of these ideas faced challenges over the years. The building underwent various changes and fell into a state of disrepair during different periods of neglect. In recent years, efforts have been made to restore and preserve this architectural landmark.