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Biophilic Urban Hub Featuring Natural Stone and Permeable Surfaces As A Community Gathering Space

Authors:
Yi yang Chai, Ng Yi Ming
Biophilic Urban Hub Featuring Natural Stone and Permeable Surfaces As A Community Gathering Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating biophilic design principles with natural stone and permeable surfaces, the newly revitalized urban square serves as a dynamic community hub for social interaction and environmental education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a circular fountain as the central feature to enhance social gatherings.
02
Utilizes recycled materials for structural components to promote sustainability.
03
Integrates an Environmental Awareness Hub for educational initiatives on ecology.
04
Features pathways with permeable surfaces to facilitate natural drainage.
05
Emphasizes biophilic design by including extensive green spaces throughout the square.

## Project Overview

The Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival project aims to restore and modernize one of Ukraine's largest urban squares, located in the center of Kharkiv. The initiative is designed to enhance the public space by addressing historical significance while meeting contemporary urban needs. The approach emphasizes integration of ecological, social, and cultural elements, reimagining the square as a central urban ecosystem that fosters a sense of community and identity.

## Thematic Framework

The design concept is framed by three key themes: **Imprint**, **Infill**, and **Incite**.

**Imprint** reflects historical narratives and collective memory through thoughtful design elements that honor the experiences of the community. **Infill** is centered on the adaptive reuse of existing structures, most notably the Kharkiv Regional Administration Building, promoting sustainability and inclusiveness. **Incite** focuses on fostering community engagement through diverse programming opportunities, enhancing the interaction between public and private spheres.

## Materiality and Spatial Design

The project employs a range of sustainable materials that enhance both functional and aesthetic qualities. Recycled materials are utilized for structural reinforcements, while photovoltaic panels on rooftops support renewable energy initiatives. Natural stone cladding is chosen for its durability and visual appeal, complemented by wooden elements that create inviting seating and recreational areas. The inclusion of permeable surfaces in pathways aids in natural drainage and mitigates stormwater runoff.

Notable design features include a central public square with a circular fountain, bordered by biophilic elements such as gardens and seating arrangements to encourage social interaction. Transitional networks of pedestrian and biking paths improve accessibility, connecting the square to surrounding neighborhoods. Recreational elements comprise an open-air cinema, meditation chambers, and playground stations, each designed to cater to various community needs, promoting well-being and engagement. Additionally, an environmental awareness hub offers educational opportunities focused on sustainability.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
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Kinderspace
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