Introduction: Currently, the projects related to the development of identical historical environments in Siberia, Russia, are predominately inconsistent. Yet there is an opportunity to find a more holistic approach to sustaining local heritage, which could address local cultures and identities through an understanding of how the location, as well as specific spatial and architectural practices, evolve. Purpose of the study: The study aimed to establish a theoretical and methodological framework for sustaining the local identity in architectural terms. Methods: According to the methodological recommendations of Groat and Wang, such methods as critical literature review and logical argumentation were used.

Introduction: In the course of the study, we examined energy-efficient and environmentally friendly heat-insulating materials based on gypsum and gypsum-containing primary components. Purpose of the study: We aimed to assess the effectiveness of using gypsum materials in wall structures, by using the finite element method based on the ANSYS Steady State Thermal module. Porous materials of different densities (structural, structural and heat-insulating, and heatinsulating gypsum concrete) were used as wall materials. These materials were obtained as a result of the interaction between residual sulfuric acid adsorbed on the grains of “acidic” fluoroanhydrite and carbonate flour. Methods: The finite element method based on the ANSYS Steady State Thermal module was used. The thermal conductivity of the structures was evaluated in a three-dimensional coordinate system. The experimental values of thermal and physical characteristics were adopted for the walling fragments. Results: The problem was solved numerically, by using the finite element method based on the ANSYS Steady State Thermal module. We established that the developed structural and heat-insulating gypsum concrete is more effective since, under the set design conditions, the temperature of the inner surface of such a wall at the minimum (510 mm) and maximum (770 mm) structure thickness exceeds the temperature of the inner surface of walls made of different materials.

Introduction: At present, the preservation of unique architectural ensembles is one of the most urgent problems of sustainable development in historical settlements. In the context of transforming the settlement’s environment while minimizing the discordant impact of new construction, it is important to study the development sites that will be used as the basis for modern planning. Method: The article applies the method of geometric analysis to the historical buildings of the city of Ryazan, which exhibit classical architecture traits and were designed by the 19th- and 20th-century architects, in order to assess their compliance with the rules of classical composition, specifically the use of golden section proportions. We also talk about the golden section in general, reviewing its history and the rules of its application in architecture. Results: We emphasize the inseparable link between architecture and geometry. Our study proves that the golden section principles were used by architects during different historical periods. In the context of the invariably high interest towards the creative heritage of architects from the 19th and 20th centuries and the need to build upon their historical experience, it is highly relevant to approach the modern architectural practice from the standpoint of using the canon of Neoclassical architecture.

Introduction: Traditional architecture, all over the world, has many characteristics that ensure thermal comfort. In the past, people built their houses in harmony with the environment, while also optimally utilizing the building materials available locally. The traditional built form was climate-responsive; it evolved over centuries of experience and observations of climate and nature. The traditional local architecture of Lucknow (a North Indian historical city) has employed some ingenious natural and passive techniques to maintain thermal comfort within the building, particularly during the hottest hours of the day. In this paper, we discuss the traditional built form of Lucknow through the lens of its climatic appropriateness, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Methods: The research methodology involves the study of the thermal performance of two traditional houses and one modern dwelling unit in Lucknow during the climatic extremes, i.e. summer and winter, by means of on-site monitoring of temperature and relative humidity. Results and discussion: We have summarized the comparative analysis of the thermal performance of traditional houses and modern houses and drawn conclusions from the factors that are responsible for providing thermal comfort. The analysis shows that the use of natural and passive techniques in the traditional buildings of Lucknow is very effective in terms of providing a thermally comfortable space, warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Introduction: The historical city core of Istanbul developed under the influence of the religions and cultures that were brought in during the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. This study investigates the effect that the 19th-century modernization, urban arrangements, road system changes, and sociocultural textures had on urban morphology on the Historical Peninsula of Istanbul, which had symbolic value. We review the morphology of Istanbul during the 19th century, a historical period when the city was undergoing new development and restructurization. We also develop an analysis methodology in order to examine this process in more detail, by following the methods of the researchers who carried out morphological studies. Purpose of the study and methods: In our research, we apply three different urban morphology methods, examining the development of the city, its effects on the urban tissue, and the newly developed and demolished areas. Firstly, we investigate historical plans in line with the Conzenian method and discover the urban tissue typologies of the historical city by using the Caniggia approach. Furthermore, we use the space syntax method developed by Bill Hillier in order to interpret the changes, differences, and similarities in the urban form, and draw axial lines to illustrate the integration of settlements and street systems shaped in the context of the relationship between people and space. Results: We discover the effects of development practices on the morphological structure of spaces and show how urban forms and cultures intertwine over time.

Introduction: This paper reviews the analytical method of assessing the seismic and extreme load resistance of buildings with a complex macrostructure that includes elastic-plastic inserts operating in shear. Methods: We analyze a number of studies that rationalize the choice of models for simulating complex elastic-plastic deformation in a mechanical system with several degrees of freedom, as well as studies that review the durability and resilience of buildings with a complex macrostructure based on non-linear shear links when subjected to dynamic and extreme impact. We also consider the methods of structural analysis regarding buildings with elastic-plastic inserts, accounting for the plastic hinged joints of metal frames. Results: We apply the analytical method to linear and non-linear systems with n degrees of freedom. We propose a mathematical equation that describes the nature of shear link response to seismic and extreme loads. Our method makes it possible to obtain an analytical solution for structures with proportionate and disproportionate damping by using the direct integration algorithm. Discussion: Most structures with a broad range of construction material properties require a disproportionate damping model. In this study, we solve equations by using the direct integration algorithm based on disproportionate damping. Under high dynamic load, the reinforcement of shear inserts operates in a plastic state.

Introduction: Predicting possible and arising defects in pavement layers made of new construction materials is an important task in the operation of any transport infrastructure facility. Purpose of the study: The study is aimed at performing a literature review, regulatory and practical analysis of the road pavement structure operation, and analysis of the operation of cement containing pavement layers. The obtained results will be applied to pavements made with the use of nepheline sludge in order to derive a general equation that will reveal insights into a model for the prediction of the structure service life depending on various factors. Methods: The methodological framework of this study is information on the theory and practice of predicting the service life of cement-containing pavement layers. The study is based on the existing and applicable equations of mathematical models. Results: We analyze the operation of pavement structures with respect to defects (macro and micro defects) formation as well as factors affecting the structure service life. Dependence of the strain capacity on the modulus of elasticity of sludge ground and the bending strength as well as dependence of the self-hardening coefficient on the structure service life are shown; factors affecting the structural durability are noted. An overview of the equation for the specific strain energy of structural bonds in a composite material is presented. We also derive a generalized equation of the service life of a structure taking into account a number of factors and set a task solved at the development of models that are the closest to real conditions.

Introduction : Saint Petersburg is characterized by complex engineering and geological conditions due to the presence of a significant mass (with a thickness of 20…30 m or more) of highly deformable soils with deformation moduli of 5…10 MPa. Besides, due to long-term geological processes that took place in the territory of Saint Petersburg thousands of years ago, these soils are extremely unevenly distributed in depth and area of occurrence. However, according to modern requirements for city development, deeper underground structures and higher buildings are needed. In terms of geotechnical solutions, it is possible to meet these requirements by using deep piles. Purpose of the study: The authors of the paper made an approximate brief classification of the geological conditions of Saint Petersburg based on the genesis, depth of occurrence, and physical and mechanical properties, and developed a method for more accurate calculations of the bearing capacity of deep bored piles. Methods: In the course of the study, the authors performed statistical processing of 600 values of the bearing capacity of bored piles, calculated according to the requirements of standards and determined by the results of field tests. In addition, they performed a non-linear extrapolation of side friction and resistance values (for soils with a depth of up to 100 m). Results: The paper presents the assessment of the bearing capacity of bored piles depending on their depth in glacial moraine and pre-quaternary vendian deposits. Using the nonlinear extrapolation, the authors calculated the side friction and resistance under the toe of bored piles for further design of pile foundations with deep bored piles (at a depth of up to 100 m). Discussion: According to statistical studies, the actual bearing capacity of bored piles is significantly higher than the design one calculated according to the requirements of corresponding standards (by 1.6...2.6 times). This is due to the fact that soils with significantly differing strength and deformation characteristics are located along the side and under the toe of bored piles. The stronger the soil where the most part of the pile is located, the more the bearing capacity error is (towards underestimation). The paper presents studies confirming this statement.

Introduction: Deconstruction is looking for any meaning, semantics and concepts and then shows how all of them seem to lead to chaos, and are always on the border of meaning duality. Purpose of the study: The study is aimed to investigate urban identity from a deconstruction perspective. Since two important bases of deconstruction are text and meaning and their relationships, we chose the first cities on a symbolic level as a text and tried to analyze their meanings. Methods: The study used a deductive content analysis in three steps including preparation, organization and final report or conclusion. In the first step, we argued deconstruction philosophy based on Derrida’s views accordingly. Then we determined some common semantic features of the first cities. Finally, we presented some conclusions based on a semantic interpretation of the first cities’ identity. Results: It seems that all cities as texts tend to provoke a special imaginary meaning, while simultaneously promoting and emphasizing the opposite meaning of what they want to show.

Introduction : This study was prompted by the introduction of the urban environment quality index into the system operated by the Russian Ministry of Construction Industry, Housing and Utilities Sector (Minstroy). We note that the ˝environment-centric˝ methodologies were already worked on and applied to housing studies in Leningrad as far back as during the 1970–1980s, and that the insights from these studies can now be used for analyzing the current state of the urban environment. Purpose of the study and methods: The information reviewed in this article gives us the first glimpse of the tangible urban environment in the historic center of Saint Petersburg. Many features of this part of the city are reminiscent of other European metropolises, but the fact that the historic center is split into three parts by vast waterways, that the construction began from the ground up in the middle of the wilderness, and that the active urban development phase lasted only a century and a half (from the 1760s to the 1910s), has a major part to play. Results: We use quantitative data to describe the features of the Saint Petersburg historic center and compare our findings to the features of European metropolises, across such parameters as spatial geometry, transportation and pedestrian links, and environmental conditions. Our study reveals a number of issues that challenge the quality of life in this part of the city. We also offer a critique of the regional norms for construction and reconstruction in historic districts, which offer a biased view of the situation and do not offer any ways of optimizing it.