Post-constructivism in the architecture of Samara: stylistic features and regional specifics (1930s)

This article investigates a transitional period in the architecture of the Samara (Kuibyshev) region: the transformation of constructivism into post-constructivism during the 1930s. The key stylistic changes of this period are analyzed, such as the rejection of radical functionalism and the austerity of constructivism in favor of classical forms, monumentality, and decorativeness. The aim of this work is to identify and comprehensively analyze the stylistic features and regional characteristics of post-constructivism in Samara’s (Kuibyshev) architecture during the 1930s. The research is based on the study of archival materials and scholarly literature, as well as a typological and comparative analysis of key buildings. The results show that in the 1930s, during a period of active residential and public construction, post-constructivist buildings in Samara (Kuibyshev) combined the functional basis and spatial volumes of constructivism with elements of classical architecture, such as classical order details, rustication, accentuated portals, sculptural decor, and symmetrical compositions. These architectural solutions reflect the search for a new, more "stable" and representative image of the Soviet city, corresponding to the paradigm shift from the expression of revolution to the representation of state stability. The evolution from constructivism to post-constructivism in the Samara (Kuibyshev) region reflects nationwide Russian trends but demonstrates local characteristics. These trends are characterized by moderate decoration, an emphasis on functional logic in composition, and the use of local materials. Post-constructivism in Samara (Kuibyshev) became an important stylistic compromise that paved the way for the subsequent development of the Stalinist architecture in the region.

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