The study considers the planning of Russian estates from both architectural and social perspectives, as well as their influence on the modern construction of urban outskirts, which is necessary for the development of city limits. The article examines the planning and organization of socio-cultural space as exemplified by the Russian estate at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. By analyzing the architectural complexes of the Russian estate and developing surroundings in this period, the authors propose a model for organizing the socio-cultural space of city limits. The article dwells on the historical architectural ensembles of Arkhangelskoye and Abramtsevo, as well as various types of Russian estates, whose territories are being developed as city outskirts. The study considers modern opinions and assessments of planning territories bordering historical architectural monuments through various research methods. The obtained results allow the authors to develop a model of a socially sustainable architectural ensemble, including its socio-cultural, artistic, and educational functions.