‘Imperial Pomp’: Gargantuan Architecture Scattered Across Russia and Former Soviet Republics

Bayterek Tower, Astana, 2012

Grand Park Towers, Moscow, 2009

Both surreal and eccentric, Imperial Pomp is German photographer Frank Herfort’s catalogue of gargantuan architecture scattered across Russia and former Soviet Republics. After the collapse of USSR, countless high-rises began looming in unnaturally colorful and exotic shapes on the horizon. Their futuristic lines and colossal size tower with a godlike omnipresence over the surrounding landscape, dwarfing desolate buildings and local residents. Using architectural clues to examine the post-Soviet mindset, Imperial Pomp offers a contrast of fallen empires and burgeoning ambition in the new world of Russia and beyond.

Herfort’s photo book, Imperial Pomp – Post Soviet High-Rise, is available through Kerber Publishing.

Overtime Restaurant and Sports Complex, Chabarovsk, 2012

Ministry Buildings, Astana, 2012

GazOil Plaza, Tyumen, 2011

Zeppelin, Moscow, 2012

Chess Centre, Chanty Mansiysk, 2012

Kuntsevo Living Complex, Moscow, 2010

National Library Belarus, Minsk, 2011

Living House Complex, Moscow, 2010

Khan Shatyr Mall, Astana, 2012

Kazakhstan Concert Hall, Astana, 2012

Lazurny Kvartal, Astana, 2012

Legion – III Centre, Moscow, 2010

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