A real estate phenomenon that is currently unique in the world which, given the price trend, also seems to please and attract new potential tenants: it is the largest condominium in the world and is located in Russia, in St. Petersburg, and is called New Okkervil. The complex it is made up of 3,708 apartments distributed over twenty-five floors for each of the thirty-five entrances.
This is an authentic one city within the city which broke every record, but one should not think of it as a legacy of the communist period given that its construction is much more recent: in fact the opening dates back to 2015. We are therefore in full swing of “smart cities” which, ironically, recall quite a bit the Soviet imprint in terms of conception.
Aerial view of Novy Okkervil
Those who live in Novy Okkervil have renamed the complex Cheloveinikithat is to say “human anthill”. Ever since it began to populate, it immediately became very famous, both for its architectural and urban planning side and for its human one given the particular way of life of many of its tenants.
In fact, some of the residents stated that sometimes they haven’t even set foot outside the compound for months – there are also those who talked about six months without leaving the condominium -, being able to find within the perimeter of Novy Okkervil everything they need.
Be careful though, all that glitters is not gold: like everything else, the record-breaking condominium located in Russia undoubtedly has many favorable aspects, but also several negative sides.
Novy Okkervil: the largest condominium in the world is in Russia
In Italy, from an urban point of view, one can move from country farmhouses to small provincial condominiums, to then arrive at the villas in residential areas and the tower blocks of the suburbs and popular neighborhoods of large cities.
In Russia, however, every record has been shattered. Novy Okkervil in fact hosts over 18,000 people – some sources speak of 20,000 residents -, who within their own condominium they can count on every comfort, come on shopping centers up to kindergartens passing through bars and restaurants. Furthermore there is also a pharmacy, a beauty salon, pubs and even a post office.
It is no coincidence that some inhabitants do not feel the need to leave their housing complex, with this unusual condominium that has seen in recent years increase the prices of the various apartmentsalmost all consisting of two bedrooms.
There are on average four to six apartments on each floor, while each section contains four express elevators where however, especially at certain times, one can be created big queue with long waits to be able to return home.
A condominium owner on social media admitted that he bought his apartment for around $46,000, while its current value has increased to $75,000. Other estimates instead talk about prices went from 35,000 to 90,000 euros.
Another positive aspect is that the inhabitants of Novy Okkervil are mostly very calm and, rarely, problems have occurred. A big problem, however, is that of parking lots: despite the almost 4,000 parking spaces, there are often double rows and, above all, deliveries create more than one problem.
Many of the residents work in St. Petersburg, but they preferred to take up a home in Novy Okkervil which for them is much quieter and more comfortable. However, a question arises spontaneously: if this condominium seems to have become very popular in Russia, how many in Italy would be willing to live there? The answer may not be so obvious.
The Architectural Marvel of Novy Okkervil: An In-Depth Look
Gather ’round, chums! We’re diving into a real estate phenomenon that’s doing its very best to impress and terrify us all—welcome to Novy Okkervil, the largest condominium in the world, nestled snugly in the wintry embrace of St. Petersburg, Russia. Imagine a community so big it could probably field a football team, or at the very least, host a crowd for a karaoke night that would last well into the next millennium.
More Than Just a Structure
Now, hold onto your hats! This architectural marvel boasts a staggering 3,708 apartments spread across twenty-five floors and thirty-five entrances. They say it’s a city within a city, and I can only imagine the morning bustle…or the chaos, depending on whether it’s Monday or Friday! Forget your quaint village life; this is more of a collective human experiment—an authentic human anthill if you will—just waiting for a documentary crew to zoom in on the quirks of its inhabitants.
You see, those brave souls in Novy Okkervil have dubbed their complex Cheloveiniki, which sounds like a trendy new cocktail but translates to “human anthill.” And let’s be honest: if you think of a Russian winter in there, it might feel more like a “human igloo” with the doors sealed tight! Apparently, some residents have gone nose-deep into their cozy abode and haven’t emerged for months, turning house arrest into a lifestyle choice. Nothing says ‘home sweet home’ like a four-month Netflix binge, right?
The Good, The Bad, and The Parking
As with all that glitters, there’s a dark shadow lurking behind those bright apartment lights. Sure, it sounds fantastic to have everything from shopping centers to kindergartens and bars within a stone’s throw (or perhaps a vodka toss) from your front door. But have you tried leaving during rush hour? Good luck! The elevators might move slower than molasses in winter, leading to long lines that could rival the queues at a concert. Think of it: you might suit up for an evening out, only to find yourself trapped in an elevator showdown!
And let’s not forget the parking issues! With nearly 4,000 parking spaces, one might imagine ample room for everyone’s wheels. But guess what? Drivers seem to have a very different idea about “parking neatly.” Double rows? More like a twisted game of Tetris gone wrong! Deliveries turning into impromptu traffic jams—who knew city living could be a contact sport?
Life Inside the Concrete Jungle
Still, it’s fascinating how this “anthill” has created a surprisingly serene atmosphere amongst its 18,000-strong residents. Some might have even experienced a price appreciation on their little nesting spots—from $46,000 to a whopping $75,000! If only my investments flourished like that! However, with prices skyrocketing, one can’t help but wonder if amateurs in the market will suddenly develop acute claustrophobia at the thought of being surrounded by so many…interesting neighbors.
The Cultural Divide
Which brings us to an intriguing thought: how many well-heeled Italians would actually sign up for a communal lifestyle with 20,000 potential new besties? The answer may be wrapped up in a nice bottle of Chianti, and I can assure you it wouldn’t be swigged back in one go! Easier to sip that summer sun’s salute than think about sharing your lift with twenty strangers.
Final Thoughts
So, here we are—the largest condominium in the world, where urban convenience meets the dizzying realization that when life gives you lemons, you might just turn to a neighbor for a sweet cup of sugar. It’s a bold experiment in communal living that raises as many questions as it answers. Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone into the bustling life of Novy Okkervil? Grab your elevator-card—if you can—and maybe sign up for a few yoga classes to cope with the inevitable chaos!
Novy Okkervil: the largest condominium in the world is in Russia
A real estate phenomenon currently unique in the world is the vast New Okkervil condominium located in St. Petersburg, Russia. This immense residential complex is comprised of a staggering 3,708 apartments, each perched across twenty-five floors and accessible through thirty-five distinctive entrances. This architectural marvel is not merely a structure; it is a thriving city within the city that has reshaped the landscape of modern living.
Since its grand opening in 2015, Novy Okkervil has defied expectations and shattered records, embodying the concept of “smart cities.” The design may echo some Soviet influences, yet it stands as a testament to contemporary urban planning rather than a relic of the communist era.
Residents have affectionately dubbed Novy Okkervil Cheloveiniki, meaning “human anthill,” which speaks to the dense population and active lifestyle within the compound. Many tenants have reported not stepping foot outside the complex for extended periods—some even six months—captivated by the convenience and amenities of their surroundings. Within the walls of Novy Okkervil, residents can find everything from shopping centers to restaurants, bars, schools, a pharmacy, beauty salons, and a post office, effectively creating a self-sustaining community.
Nevertheless, with its many appeals, the record-holding condominium is not without its challenges. Housing over 18,000 people, or possibly even 20,000, Novy Okkervil has witnessed a surge in property values, with apartments now averaging two bedrooms becoming increasingly sought after. One owner shared their experience on social media, noting an increase from approximately $46,000 at purchase to a current valuation of $75,000. Other estimates suggest prices can fluctuate between 35,000 to 90,000 euros.
While the majority of residents enjoy a peaceful life within Novy Okkervil and conflicts are rare, one pressing concern remains the issue of parking. Despite the availability of nearly 4,000 parking spaces, congestion occurs frequently, with vehicles often double-parked and delivery vehicles causing additional chaos. Many residents commute to their jobs in St. Petersburg, opting for the tranquility and comfort that living in Novy Okkervil affords them. Yet, despite its growing popularity in Russia, a curious question arises: how many prospective residents in Italy would consider making such a lifestyle choice? The answer remains complex and ambiguous.
Vy Okkervil “Cheloveiniki,” translating to “human anthill,” a fitting moniker for such a densely populated environment. Despite the overwhelming number of inhabitants—around 18,000—many residents report a sense of tranquility, a rare commodity in bustling urban areas. This serene environment is complemented by the community’s amenities, including shopping centers, kindergartens, and recreational spaces, fostering a self-sufficient lifestyle that many find appealing.
However, the sheer volume of residents brings its own set of challenges. The complex’s infrastructure, while impressive, can struggle under the weight of daily life. Parking has become a particularly contentious issue; with nearly 4,000 dedicated spaces, double parking and impromptu traffic jams have become commonplace. Similarly, even though the building boasts express elevators, peak times often lead to long wait times that test the patience of even the most zen individuals.
Despite the struggles, it’s hard to overlook the economic aspects that have turned the apartments from modest investments into valuable assets. The price of apartments has seen substantial appreciation, from as low as $35,000 to estimates nearing $90,000. This financial upside is likely attributable to the growing popularity of the residential complex as a desirable living space just outside St. Petersburg.
The cultural implications of living in such a vast community also provoke interesting discussions. While some might embrace the community-centric lifestyle, others may hesitate at the thought of sharing their space with so many neighbors. It raises a poignant question: would individuals from different cultural backgrounds, such as Italy, be as open to a communal lifestyle? The answer may vary widely, reflective of personal values and lifestyle preferences.
Novy Okkervil stands not just as the largest condominium in the world but as a progressive experiment in urban living. It encapsulates both the conveniences and challenges of modern city life and serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of community-building in the 21st century. Whether potential residents see it as a dream home or a logistical puzzle, there’s no denying its status as a landmark of contemporary architecture and urban planning.