Kazakh yurts, a symbol of nomadic tradition, has been a cornerstone of Kazakh culture for centuries. These portable, circular dwellings are characterised by their eco-friendly nature,mobility, fast construction, and transformative capabilities. However, Nurgissa Architects has taken this traditional concept and adapted it for modern use. These modern Kazakh yurts aim to revolutionise tourist accommodations in Kazakhstan by seamlessly blending traditional design elements with innovative features.

Based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, Nurgissa Architects with their remodelled Kazakh yurts, intend to preserve the essence of the traditional yurt while incorporating contemporary elements. Ravil Nurgissa of Nurgissa Architects says, "Now the preferences of young people are changing, and they have begun to deepen our culture more and more. They are trying to modernise national peculiarities. This includes music, subject design, poetry, and much more. As architects, we decided to modernise the architecture of the yurt. By itself, a traditional yurt can be quickly designed, disassembled and taken to another place. They also do not pollute the environment. Leaving all these qualities, we have submitted a new version for modern people." 

The layout of the modern yurt mirrors the traditional design, offering spaces for bedrooms and workspaces around the perimeter, with a centralised area for kitchen and toilet facilities. This adherence to the traditional layout ensures a comfortable switch for those familiar with the classic yurt configuration but who want a more modern experience.

The innovation in the design of these yurts lies in the transformative aspects. Transformable furniture, including beds and chairs, maximises internal space efficiency, allowing for multifunctional use of the compact 25 sqm area. The telescopic volumetric elements, reminiscent of the classic yurt, add a dynamic touch by adapting to steppe areas through segment extension and shifting. This flexibility creates a living space that can be closed during cold weather or opened up to the outside in warmer conditions.

Despite the parallel in layout with traditional yurts and the design innovation to achieve transformability, the biggest strength of the design is its commitment to sustainability. The outer side of the panel segments is covered with a flexible polymer film embedded with organic semiconductors, generating electricity. This sustainable energy source provides an alternative power supply to the dwelling and aligns with the traditional yurt's eco-friendly ethos.

The studio has also integrated environmentally safe materials, such as glued plywood with a basalt fibre heat-protective layer for wall segments, showcasing a harmonious balance between traditional and modern ecological considerations. Thanks to telescopic segment transformation, the modern yurt's ability to merge with its surroundings further minimises its environmental impact.

Nurgissa Architects takes the design's commitment to sustainability further by incorporating an autonomous biological installation for cleaning all household effluent including wastewater from kitchen equipment and toilets. A container with a biological purification unit, placed under the toilet, treats 0.5 m3/day of wastewater. This forward-thinking approach aligns with the nomadic tradition of respecting and preserving the environment.

While traditional yurts historically relied on natural water sources, these modern Kazakh yurts adapt to modern needs. Drinking water is sourced from a well using a submerged pump, ensuring a reliable supply. This integration of modern amenities while retaining the essence of familial living exemplifies the architects' dedication to providing a comfortable yet authentic experience.

When asked about the experience of the users of the modern yurts, Ravil says, “A lot of young people were interested and delighted. Now we have noticed a lot of interest from foreigners and we receive a lot of offers from other countries such as France, Italy, Spain, Greece, and Australia. We believe future generations will be interested and will not be forgotten if we serve them in a modern way.”

Nurgissa Architects' modern Kazakh yurts stand as a testament to the evolution of architectural design, where tradition meets innovation. The project not only pays homage to the rich nomadic heritage of Kazakhstan but also addresses contemporary challenges through sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. As we witness this integration of traditional values with modern advancements, the modern Kazakh Yurt emerges not only as a tourist accommodation concept but as a symbol of how architectural innovation can bridge the gap between past and present, ensuring the preservation of cultural identity in the face of a rapidly changing world.

Project Details

Name: Modern Kazakh Yurts
Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan
Year of completion: 2023
Design Firm: Nurgissa Architects