Akorda Presidential Residence

One of the key modern architectural landmarks of Astana is the Water-Green Boulevard, an impressive architectural complex stretching from the Khan Shatyr shopping mall to the Akorda Presidential Residence, passing by notable structures such as the Bayterek Tower and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation. Much like other presidential residences around the world, such as the White House or Buckingham Palace, Akorda is open to guided tours for tourist groups, although individual visits are prohibited. Tours are not conducted when the President of Kazakhstan is present in the building. Akorda is considered one of the top ten most beautiful presidential palaces globally.

The idea of opening the presidential residence to visitors came from Kazakhstan’s first and only president, Nursultan Nazarbayev. The initiative was designed to give people a chance to walk through halls that have hosted renowned international political figures and foreign heads of state. Thanks to this idea, visitors can witness the rooms and offices where some of the nation’s most critical decisions are made.

Construction of the Akorda complex began in 2001 and was completed with a grand presentation in 2004. The name “Akorda,” meaning “White Headquarters,” was inspired by the building’s use of white and its various shades in both its interior and exterior design. In Turkic culture, white is a sacred and symbolic color, representing goodness, honesty, nobility, and prosperity. In the decor of the Presidential Residence, white is complemented by accents of gold, blue, and green.

There is also a historical reference to the name Akorda, which harks back to the ancient state of the same name, whose territory once covered present-day Kazakhstan. For a long period, this state existed under the influence of the Golden Horde.

The design of the Akorda complex was developed by Kazakhstani architects in collaboration with European specialists. The architecture and design reflect a strong national style, symbolizing the modern development of Kazakhstan while preserving its ancient traditions. Eastern motifs are evident throughout the palace, particularly in the frequent use of circular patterns in the ornamentation. Additionally, Akorda houses an art collection featuring works by prominent Kazakh artists.

The total interior space of the building exceeds 36,000 square meters, and the structure stands 86 meters tall, including its spire. The residence comprises seven floors, two of which are underground and five above ground. The palace is constructed from monolithic concrete using modern technologies, and the surrounding grounds feature fountains and flower-lined walkways.

The underground floors are designated for utility and technical services, while the above-ground floors are home to the grand, luxurious halls and offices. The interiors are adorned with high-quality natural materials, such as fine woods, marble, and granite. Crystal chandeliers and artworks further enhance the palace’s design.

The Rooms of Akorda

Each floor of the Akorda has its own distinctive purpose and features:

• The first floor boasts ceilings over 10 meters high, with most of the space taken up by the Grand Central Hall for official receptions. This hall covers an area of 1,800 square meters. Other rooms on this floor include the Ceremonial Hall, the Press Conference Room, and the Winter Garden.

• The second floor is where offices and workspaces are located.

• The third floor is perhaps the most intriguing for visitors, as it houses rooms used for meetings, negotiations, and official receptions by the President of Kazakhstan. Highlights of this floor include the Eastern Hall, designed in the style of a traditional steppe yurt, as well as the Marble, Gold, and Oval Halls.

• The fourth floor contains the Dome Hall and the Conference Room, where the President meets with representatives of the Presidential Administration, ministries, political parties, and various movements. The Negotiation Room is also found here, where discussions with foreign delegations take place. Additionally, there is a library with a unique collection of books.

For a more detailed description of the official residence of the President of Kazakhstan, you can visit the Akorda Residence’s official website.