Arhitektura Gostinogo Dvora -

Traditionally, the ground floor was used for retail trade, the second floor for administration and wholesale, and the upper floors or basements for warehouses.

St. Petersburg attractions. The Great Gostiny Dvor. - Visit Russia arhitektura gostinogo dvora

Usually designed as a large quadrangle or irregular square occupying an entire city block, with a central courtyard for deliveries and additional storage. Traditionally, the ground floor was used for retail