CROSS WORKS - New Tashkent Architectural Guidelines Part 1 - Scale

OVERVIEW

As architects and urban designers, our primary focus in creating a masterplan is ultimately to shape enjoyable, vibrant, and memorable places and spaces that enrich people’s lives. A critical element in any successful masterplan, are the buildings themselves, the quality of which being something we can’t often fully control once a masterplan framework is completed. 

At Cross Works , our team is involved from the start to finish of every project - actively engaging with our clients at every step of the process. Architectural guidelines are a key tool to help ensure that the urban environments we design maintain high standards and lasting quality. These guidelines enable us to influence the design and delivery of buildings, ensuring sustainability, and maintaining a consistent, coherent vision. 

After completing the New Tashkent District 1 Detailed Masterplan, Cross Works were commissioned by the Directorate of New Tashkent to develop Architectural Guidelines.

Given the size and diversity of District 1, we needed to strike a balance between flexibility and a strong urban vision, one that can adapt over time. Our goal was clear: provide guidance and direction for the “95%” of the future buildings – such as residential apartments, townhouses and villas, through to community amenities such as schools and clinics. In other words - the buildings shaping our everyday experiences, with cultural landmarks and unique structures sitting outside of the guidance due to their special significance.  

Tashkent’s architecture tells a long and continuous story of human habitation which began over 2,000 years ago. From Pre-Islamic and Islamic periods, through to the influences of the Russian Empire, Soviet Modernism and the recent post-independence era - the city’s architectural identity blends tradition with international best practice, the New Tashkent Architectural Guidelines provide a timely and unparalleled opportunity to lay the groundwork for buildings that are both human-scaled and contextually responsive – shifting the focus for new architecture to the key elements of scale, proportion, articulation, openings, and materials. 

We’re excited to share some of the key insights and lessons we’ve learned throughout this process, and we’ll continue to share more in the days ahead. 

This article is one of a five-part series, focusing initially on the theme of Scale originally published on Cross Works website.

SCALE: GUIDING CRITICAL EARLY DECISIONS WITH LONG LASTING IMPACT 

The earliest design decisions in a project have significant implications for climate performance and how successfully a building integrates into its surroundings. Materials and façades can always be upgraded, but correcting fundamental issues with building shape or placement later is far more challenging. 

Design to Connect with Surroundings  

Buildings should take full advantage of their surroundings. Orienting them toward green spaces brings in natural light, enhances views, and reduces noise. This connection to nature creates spaces that are inviting and comfortable. Scale also plays a critical role. Monumental structures suit public or special-use areas by conveying a sense of importance. In residential contexts, however, a human-scaled and detailed approach fosters intimacy and comfort. 

Design strategies like transitioning heights and articulating building mass can significantly enhance contextual integration. Stepping down building heights near lower-rise structures or breaking large masses into smaller sections helps buildings blend harmoniously with their surroundings. These thoughtful adjustments help buildings become part of the neighbourhood, improving the overall urban experience rather than standing out awkwardly. 

Keep It Human-Scaled  

At the heart of great design is a simple principle: it’s about people. Thoughtful proportions and considered details make spaces welcoming, liveable, and connected to their urban context. We’ve all experienced streets that simply "feel right," where buildings form a coherent street edge, offering variety without chaos. This happens intentionally when buildings align with the street, stepping forward or back only when logical and beneficial. 

On major streets, a defined edge helps shape public spaces, while carefully designed frontages create engaging, lively streetscapes. Corner buildings and those facing multiple streets deserve careful attention—every visible side matters. Buildings should complement, not overpower, their surroundings. 

The most inviting streets respect scale, rhythm, and accessibility. Larger buildings benefit from being broken into smaller footprints to foster street-level activity and enhance permeability. Similarly, taller structures should gradually step down near lower-rise areas for smoother transitions. In historic or established neighbourhoods, new developments should reflect existing street patterns and scales, blending seamlessly into the urban fabric. 

Public spaces are equally crucial. Whether courtyards, plazas, or pocket parks, thoughtfully placed gathering spaces connect buildings to the public realm, making streets vibrant, social, and enjoyable. Good urban design isn’t merely about buildings; it’s about creating places where people feel genuinely at home.