Flacon is like ArtPlay’s sister, similar but with a completely different character and definitely worth a visit. Like the other creative spaces in Moscow, Flacon was once a glassworks factory, which was eventually abandoned. The factory used to produce perfume bottles, but after falling into disuse, businessman Nikolai Matuszewski took over the premises and renovated the space in 2007.
Flacon is truly one of Moscow’s renovation success stories, and in 2011 Forbes named the space as one of the projects that has best changed the face of Moscow. Now, rather than empty buildings, stand creative studios, craft shops, artisan cafes and galleries. Flacon is a striking complex of red brick buildings, that together form an imaginative maze to wander through, around each corner you will find a different part of the area to entice you in. The exteriors of the buildings are an exhibition in themselves, as you will find numerous works of street art covering the walls. The space at Flacon both inside and outside is bustling during the summer months.
You can bring your whole family to Flacon, children love the workshop ‘Garden’ which is in fact a multi-functional two storey platform, specifically designed for children’s activities and creativity. Freedom of expression is the theme of the Garden, so bring your children and enjoy seeing them using their imagination and exploring their talents. If you’re looking for somewhere to host a party or a concert, the roof at Flacon is an ideal spot, with panoramic views over the city. You can also try the Telescope Loft, which has both an interior decorated by Russian designers, as well as an outside area for barbeques under the stars.
Another option would be the very stylish Cube, which is an example of architectural ingenuity at its best; it used to be a glass-blowing workshop and has been transformed into a three-storey multipurpose space. The minimalist design allows for the area to be used in a variety of creative ways, and has held theatrical performances, drinks parties and gigs.