James Law: the new space of the National Centre RUSSIA is an Image of the City of the Future
The new building of the National Centre RUSSIA is already becoming part of the conversation regarding the future of cities. Its concept is attracting the attention of international guests as an example of bold, modern architecture capable of shaping a new look for Moscow and setting a direction for the development of the urban environment. This opinion was shared by James Law, an expert of the II Open Dialogue, architect, and CEO and founder of Cybertecture from Hong Kong.
"I believe that architecture plays a crucial role in the appearance of the city of the future. It embodies our dreams, aspirations, and boldness in the face of what is to come. In my view, this specific project represents something special. It reflects the hope that the future can be very geometric and innovative in its form. Any architectural object in the world eventually becomes a symbol of its city. I am confident that this building will become a new symbol of Moscow — just as other iconic structures represent their cities across the globe," said James Law.
The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, gave the start to the construction of the new complex on the Krasnopresnenskaya Embankment on 26 March 2026, personally launching the works at the construction site. The future building is set to become an architectural event of global significance and a symbol of modern Russia. The total area of the complex will exceed 200,000 square metres, with the exposition spaces alone occupying approximately 50,000 square metres, while the entire territory spans more than 14 hectares. The Centre will be able to accommodate around 20,000 guests simultaneously.
The II Open Dialogue "The Future of the World. A New Platform for Global Growth" took place at the National Centre RUSSIA from 27 to 29 April. The event is implemented in partnership with the Centre for Cross-Industry Expertise "Third Rome" with the support of the Presidential Executive Office of the Russian Federation.
Open Dialogue helps countries understand each other better, jointly develop solutions, and use these ideas for the development.
The similarity of cultures prevents Europeans from feeling like strangers in Russia a participant of the II Open Dialogue.
The meeting with young people in the Campfire format was the concluding event of the Open Dialogue.
