"Architecture workshops help choose a profession": how creative activities at the National Centre RUSSIA inspire young visitors

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As part of the educational programme of "The Birth of Scale" exposition, a series of architecture workshops for children and adults was held at the National Centre RUSSIA. Under the guidance of experienced architects and teachers, participants explored the basics of planning, modelling, and design — and some even discovered their professional calling through these activities.

From paper models to a future profession

One of the most memorable workshops was "Flat planning through the eyes of a child," where young architects learned to work with space and scale, creating miniature paper interiors. The workshop was led by Anna Butova, a lecturer at the HSE Art and Design School. 

For Maria Stoycheva, who dreams of becoming an interior designer, this workshop became an important step towards her future profession. Her mother, Natalia Stoycheva, shared her impressions:

"I wanted my daughter to try herself in this field. She draws well. She is 11 years old and recently decided on her future profession. We designed our room using paper and coloured it in. Now my daughter is confident in her choice of specialisation."

Futuristic pasta towers and spatial thinking

No less engaging was the workshop "Pasta Builder," where participants constructed futuristic towers in the style of the legendary Soviet architect Yakov Chernikhov. The workshop was led by Anna Medleva, senior lecturer at the School of Design, ION RANEPA, and member of the Union of Architects and Designers of Russia.  

Alena Lebezhikhina and her son Timofei have been attending workshops at the National Centre RUSSIA since the end of March.

"I keep track of the schedule on the official website and register in advance. We come here after school. Today I especially liked how the students worked and interacted with the children. They are very enthusiastic and have impressive spatial thinking," said Alena.

3D storyboards and animated worlds

Students of the RANEPA School of Design conducted a 3D storyboard workshop where children learned to turn scenes from their favourite animated films into three-dimensional cardboard models.  

Eight-year-old Maria, one of the youngest participants, shared her thoughts:

"I really liked it. I am happy that my mother signed me up and brought me here. It is my first time at such an event, and I will definitely come again. I love making things from paper and cardboard, and I love drawing."

Graphics and city characters

Teachers from the FA-SAD studio of architecture and design, Inna and Valery Salikhov, invited participants to create graphic compositions during the workshop "The Face of the City." Children invented characters inspired by the geometry of real buildings. 

Yeseniya Kolodesnikova, who often attends creative events with her mother, shared her impressions:

"My mum and I often go to such events, but this was our first time at the National Centre RUSSIA. We will come again. I love making things with my hands."

Toys as part of the urban space

During the "Toy for the City" workshop, organised by the ArchiLAB student centre at MIIGAiK, participants reimagined the traditional rocking horse, thinking about how it could be integrated into the urban environment.  

Irina, a regular guest at the National Centre RUSSIA workshops, said:

"My son Sasha and I really enjoyed the workshop. It is an amazing feeling when a flat sheet of paper suddenly gains meaning, volume, and depth — and you become the author of this wonderful transformation. It truly encourages creative thinking in both children and adults."

The exposition as a space for inspiration

Since its opening on March 1, "The Birth of Scale" exposition has welcomed thousands of visitors — from professional architects to schoolchildren just starting their creative journeys. The workshops have offered a unique opportunity to step into the world of architecture and design — and perhaps discover one's true calling.

The events of the educational programme are free to attend with prior registration on the website of the National Centre RUSSIA at russia.ru. Up-to-date information can be found in the "Events" section.