Russian developer Sergei Polonsky found fame by getting punched by Evening Standard owner Alexander Lebedev during a TV interview in September. Noella Pio Kivlehan spoke to the man behind the country’s Federation Tower
What was the inspiration behind the Federation Tower?
The idea came to my mind after visiting New York, Hong Kong, Dubai and Shanghai and seeing their skyscrapers, which up to now have been evoking universal admiration. I was inspired by the thought that, even in such cultural and conservative cities as Paris and London, there were districts with high-rise buildings that have become the embodiment of society’s aspiration for progress. At that point, Moscow didn’t have tall buildings, which have become fundamental to so many world capitals declaring their right and desire to be modern and advanced. That is how the idea to build the Federation Tower, which will amaze everybody because of its beauty, was born.
How is the Russian property market doing, and is the eurozone crisis having any effect?
The Russian market has been functioning within its space and limits. Russia, as you know, occupies the territory that can contain seven Europes and has the potential for permanent development. Also, we must not forget that the USSR was the last empire of the previous millennium, and that all the inhabitants of the empire want to live in the metropolis. That is why Moscow’s property market has a huge potential.
Regarding the crisis, I think it is more a mental concept than an economic one. If you wake up in the morning and feel a crisis within yourself, then it can be a real crisis.
Because of the problems, are you glad Russia is not in the EU?
We are all Europeans, and we do not separate ourselves from Europe. When the time for integration into the EU comes, Russia will occupy its historical place in a European family with dignity despite all the insinuations around this problem.
What prompted you to go into the property market after the air force?
To serve in the air force is to serve in the army’s elite. To build skyscrapers using advanced technologies is to have the premium status in the world of developing. In this way, I only continued the trend that had been set in motion in the air force.
How did you to get financial backing for the Federation Tower?
Finances always come to those people who want to improve our world, or at least to make the world a better place. Money is an engine for progress. If you understand what progress is, and if you are ready to go to any length in order to achieve a better life, then you will find support, including financial support, from different circles.
What do you think of the UK’s property market? Would you consider owning UK property?
The main property market in Great Britain is in its capital city. This points to similarities between our two countries. Both Russia and Britain were empires, and their capitals have always been a kind of magnet that attracted all its citizens and those who felt an affection towards the grandeur of imperial cities.
On your question regarding owning UK property, I would answer that being a Russian citizen I have no need to buy property in London. This question can probably best be addressed to my children – on achieving an age when they are able to make decisions, it will be their choice where to live.
Favourite UK town or city?
Unfortunately, due to my heavy workload I didn’t get a chance to visit any British city or town except London. But, as a man who is fascinated with photography, when I have free time I wish to visit not only the great capital but to travel the United Kingdom in its entirety, and I look forward to seeing the country’s unique beauties.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
I would have to say that I became the biggest inspiration in my own career. Certainly, though, there are many opportunities to be encouraged by the example other people have set. In Russia, we even have a very popular book series called Lives of outstanding people where one could come to know how the personalities of so many great people have been formed.
Is there any UK developer or architect that you admire and are inspired by?
I am ready to be filled with admiration for any work by my contemporaries because a new building always has a new message that only has to be seen to be understood. There are people who want to bring something new to this world, and the expression through architecture is one of the most efficient ways to achieve this.
What kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind? Known for being a great developer? Building iconic buildings?
The legacy I leave can be objectively decided only by future generations. I’m happy to let my contemporaries judge my buildings for themselves and decide whether they feel they are worth remembering or not.
And how do you feel about being punched on live TV by Russian billionaire and owner of London’s Evening Standard, Alexander Lebedev?
Any person who has suffered injustice always wants the balance to be redressed, and in this case it looks like the redress will be settled in court.
Would you do another TV interview with Mr Lebedev?
If someone wants to arrange an interview with him, I would be more than ready to devote some time to it.
Favourite film genre?
There are so many genres, but in my opinion cinema in general is one of the most important art forms.
Favourite type of food?
A good meal is not so much about the food but about the people who surround you during your meal.
Favourite actor/actress?
As they say in France, there is no great wine – there are great bottles. I believe the same can be said about actors and actresses – like wine, their skill gets better and better with age.
Favourite time of year?
As an amateur photographer, I like all seasons, since they can all provide the opportunity to take a good snapshot.
What are your hopes and aspirations for 2012?
I think it is unavoidable that 2012 will bring ups and downs. However, like everyone, I hope for the best for the new year.
After failing to make it into space in 2004, is this still an ambition?
To see our planet from outer space is a dream of millions of people and, of course, it’s my personal dream. Who knows, maybe the time will come when I will make that dream come true.
