A 6️⃣5️⃣-year-old pensioner created a spectacular ART GALLERY from the entrance of the apartment building and became a local hero! 🏨🔃🕍 The old dump place with peeling paint, dim lighting and miserable stairwells became an artistic masterpiece! 🪄🔮 Instead of seeing it as just a passageaway, he transformed it into breathtaking display of craftsmanship the photos of which I will share in this article! 👇
When you think of the entrance to an old apartment building, what comes to mind? Peeling paint, dim lighting, and stairwells filled with dust and cobwebs?
While many entryways fit this description, not all are neglected. Some residents take pride in their surroundings, refusing to let their living spaces fall into disrepair. One such person is a retired resident of Kyiv who turned his once-dull apartment building entrance into an artistic masterpiece!
Meet the Man Behind the Magic
Vladimir, a 65-year-old pensioner, once worked for the Kyiv Metro and later moved on to maintaining buildings at a depot in Obolon. But in retirement, he found a new passion—one that would leave an unforgettable mark on his home.
“At my old job, I met a talented craftsman who specialized in decorative molding,” Vladimir recalls. “He taught me how to cast plaster figures and even gave me some of his molds.”
A Life-Changing Event Sparked a New Purpose
In 1997, Vladimir had a near-death experience that completely changed his outlook on life. Determined to leave something meaningful behind, he decided to create something extraordinary—not just for himself, but for his neighbors and the entire community.
An Entranceway Like No Other
Instead of seeing his apartment stairwell as just a passageway, Vladimir saw a blank canvas. With dedication and skill, he transformed it into a breathtaking display of craftsmanship. Ornate moldings now line the ceilings, and elegant paintings in gilded frames adorn the walls, giving the space the feel of a classic art gallery.
Every inch of the entryway showcases his talent, and although he worked mostly alone, his son occasionally helped with heavier installations.
Turning the Trash Chute into a Work of Art
One of Vladimir’s most unique creations is a stunning column—crafted from what was once an ordinary rubbish chute!
“When there were talks about sealing off the chutes entirely, I figured if they were staying, I might as well make them look beautiful,” he explains. “Now, the chute is still functional, but some neighbors hesitate to use it because it looks too fancy!”
A Hidden Gem in Kyiv
Currently, Vladimir’s transformation covers just a few floors, as the rising costs of materials like plaster and paint have limited his ability to expand. Despite offers from people willing to pay him for similar projects, he refuses to turn his passion into a business.
His incredible handiwork hasn’t gone unnoticed. Locals visit the building just to admire the stairwell, and newlyweds even choose it as a backdrop for wedding photos!
This incredible makeover proves that creativity and skill can turn even the most ordinary places into something spectacular. If this transformation amazed you, be sure to share it with friends!
