Identity of Harbin: an Experience of the Historical and Cultural Environment Regeneration

Abstract

The problem of loss cultural identity significantly effects on all modern cities regardless of their status. The main objective is the historical and cultural environment regeneration specifics determination of the formerly Russian city, isolated for more than half a century from its own country due to difficult historical events. The regeneration experience is considered on example of the huge scale project realization of the Harbin Railway Museum, designed according to the image of the Harbin Railway Station existed until 1959, captured on historical photographs, postcards. The research result shows that the museum building is successfully fitted into the existing urban environment; the district infrastructure is significantly improved due to the creation of park areas, the construction of additional highways on the former railway tracks. This article describes the original architectural design decisions, assuming maximum use of cultural, stylistic features of the Harbin urban environment and results of its implementation. Return to the Russian cultural heritage in China is a vivid example, demonstrating a successful and, at the same time, harmonious coexistence of different cultures together. The experience of the Harbin Railway Museum project realization may be applied both into the design of new or already existing buildings.