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Hector Simo's Mansion, 1898, Architect R.I. Klein, P.N. Pozdneev

Фото 1
The mansion of Hector Ivanovich Simo, known for its decorative and planning features, is located on the territory of the former Silk Manufacturing Society, founded in 1881 by G.I. Simo and K.O. Zhiro based on the Silk Weaving Factory of P.O. Gujon.

The history of this site is linked to factory production since the first half of the 19th century. In 1835-1836, the first production buildings were constructed at the corner of Shabolovka and Rizopolozhensky Lane. In the 1840s, they were rented by P.O. Gujon, a French citizen living in Russia. He later passed the well-organized production and reconstructed buildings to his son, Yulius.

In 1880, the new owner of the factory and the site became Hector Simo, who had recently arrived from France. Thanks to his efforts, the silk weaving factory on Shabolovka became one of the largest productions in Moscow. At the All-Russian Art and Industry Exhibition of 1882, their silk fabrics, such as velvet, foulard, satin, and brocade, received the highest award.

In 1898, according to the project by R.I. Klein and P.N. Pozdeev, a residential building for G. Simo and his family was constructed on the factory's territory. The construction of the mansion coincided with the completion of the reorganization of production and major construction works that began in 1893 and ended in 1898. The designs for the new factory buildings were also developed by Roman Klein.

The architectural solution of G. Simo's mansion is associated with late eclecticism. The tent roofs and decorative grilles resemble a Russian terem from the late 17th century. However, the innovative layout of the house, based on the grouping of volumes around a central axis, indicates the influence of a new style. The composition of the building ensured good sunlight exposure, as the windows were oriented in different directions. This approach allowed R.I. Klein to create a picturesque appearance for the mansion, reminiscent of both a Russian terem and a compact medieval castle. The preserved grand staircase features a simple yet elegant design of wooden railings.

After 1918, the Simo factory was nationalized. In 1937, the State All-Union Autonomous Spool and Reel Factory named after Dzerzhinsky was established here, operating until the 1990s. The former mansion was used for administrative purposes, and during this period, many interior elements were lost. In the late 1990s, part of the ceilings collapsed.

Currently, the mansion, which underwent reconstruction in the 2000s, is privately owned and is for sale. The building is under restoration.

Geo point

Особняк Г.И. Симоно, 1898 г., архитектор Р.И.Клейн, П.Н.Позднеев

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