The article analyzes the evolution of the architectural and spatial structure and recreational complex of mass housing in the largest cities of Southern Russia in relation to the socio-professional structure of the population from the beginning of the twentieth century to the present day. The research method is based on the provisions of the concept of the evolution of residential architecture based on the development of a recreational complex, developed by Professor V.M. Molchanov. The research method consists of conducting a retrospective analysis of the architectural and spatial structure and recreational complex of housing in the largest cities of Southern Russia based on the study and processing of literary sources, graphical analysis of the prevailing APS residential development in each designated period. Based on the revealed relationship, the social foundations of the formation of the architecture of mass housing in the period under review were revealed. Based on the results obtained, a forecast was made about prospective forms of organization of the architectural and spatial structure of the dwelling, taking into account current changes in professional groups of the post-industrial era, including a growing number of workers employed in the information sphere, culture and education. The conclusion is substantiated about the prospects of medium-rise urban development, which provides active recreation and professional work for a significant part of the modern urban population.

Keywords: architectural and spatial structure, urban housing, mass housing, recreation and wellness complex, social foundations of design, socio-professional structure of the population, evolution of housing