Architectural Lighting as Art: Kultura Sveta Presents the Intonatsia Residential Complex at the Golden Trezzini Awards

The category "Best Implemented Architectural Lighting Project in Russia" holds a special place at the International Golden Trezzini Awards for Architecture and Design.

Its uniqueness lies in the fact that lighting solutions are evaluated on equal terms with architectural, restoration, and design projects. The winning works enter the collections of a state museum — the State Museum of the History of St. Petersburg — and become part of its holdings. This underscores the status of architectural lighting as a full-fledged artistic layer of the urban environment. The title sponsor of the category is PJSC Rosseti Lenenergo, which has supported it since its establishment.

Among the nominees of the 9th Golden Trezzini Awards is the Intonatsia ("Intonation") residential complex (2 Shchukinskaya St., Moscow). The applicant is the Kultura Sveta ("Culture of Light") lighting design studio. The project architects are Apex bureau. Status: completed (2025).

The lighting concept extends the architectural language of the building, revealing after dark the rhythm of its volumes, the sculptural quality of its recesses, and the texture of the finishing materials. The primary design feature is a series of soft upward gradients. They enhance the dynamic form that changes with height and create a cohesive, recognizable silhouette. A lighting accent at the top completes the composition and distinguishes the complex within the urban skyline.

At ground-floor level, priority is given to visual comfort and safety: adequate vertical illumination ensures good facial recognition and creates a welcoming environment for residents and pedestrians. Within the courtyards, light is delicately integrated into the landscape, revealing the spatial structure and emphasizing the sculptural qualities of the artworks, turning them into expressive landmarks.

The project is presented on the awards website: https://goldtrezzini.ru/en/nominees/intonation-en, where it can be voted for in the special People's Choice Award category.

Applications for the ninth season of the Golden Trezzini Awards are accepted until 15 September. Participation is free of charge. The winners will be awarded at the State Hermitage Museum.