In the first half of the 19th century, there stood a two-story house on this site, owned by merchant Zimin. In 1846, architect Kulakov carried out its reconstruction. Later, the house passed into the possession of merchant of the second guild Abramov, who opened an inn here. In 1899, architect N. N. Nikonov acquired the building and transformed it into a five-story structure, giving it the appearance we see today. Locals call it the "gingerbread house." Nikolai Nikitich Nikonov was one of the outstanding architects of St. Petersburg in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly known for his works in church architecture.

In the income house at Kolokolnaya Street, 11, one can see elements characteristic of Russian villages from past centuries: luxurious floral ornaments, pointed roofs, window frames with floral images, tent roofs, and bay windows. In the courtyard, the facade motifs continue: an arched passage with a lace-like grille leads to an ensemble with a turret, tile elements, and beautiful details. The terem house, executed in the neo-Russian style and adorned with mosaics, multicolored ceramics, and brickwork, embodies the architect's dreams of a quiet life in a picturesque Russian village.

In 1908, Nikolai Nikitich sold the building to wealthy St. Petersburg resident Dionisy Avrakhov, who owned it until 1917. Later, communal apartments were established in the terem house.