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Bioreactor Integration and Community Courtyards Enhanced by Local Stone and Algae Panels

Author:
Qutub Mandviwala
Bioreactor Integration and Community Courtyards Enhanced by Local Stone and Algae Panels

Project in-detail

Incorporating liquid algae panels for environmental enhancement, the revitalization of Freedom Square transforms public space with community courtyards and pedestrian pathways that foster social interaction and accessibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates liquid algae panels that function as bioreactors, improving air quality.
02
Utilizes local stone materials to reinforce regional cultural identity and reduce transportation impact.
03
Features community courtyards designed to enhance social interaction and civic engagement.
04
Integrates green roofs and walls to promote biodiversity and improve urban ecology.
05
Includes a continuous pedestrian pathway that connects key landmarks for improved accessibility.

## Project Overview
Located in Kharkiv, Ukraine, the revival of Freedom Square is an architectural initiative aimed at revitalizing this historically significant public space and enhancing the Regional Administrative Building as a focal point of cultural heritage and resilience. This project seeks to integrate various societal needs while emphasizing ecological sustainability, reflecting both the rich history and contemporary relevance of Kharkiv.

## Urban Connectivity and Spatial Strategy
The design adopts a "Liberating Ribbon" concept, symbolizing the interconnectedness of Kharkiv’s past, present, and future. At the heart of the design is a continuous pedestrian and cycling pathway that enhances accessibility throughout the square, fostering social interaction and community engagement. The project positions Freedom Square as a central multifunctional area, equipped with amenities like dry fountains and green spaces, which serve as communal gathering points. It strategically aligns with notable landmarks, including Karazin University and the Dezhrprom building, to bolster visibility and connectivity.

## Materiality and Sustainable Technologies
The project employs innovative materials designed to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility. Liquid algae panels feature prominently, serving as bioreactors that capture carbon dioxide and improve air quality. The use of recycled aluminum and glass for the facade not only underscores resource efficiency but also contributes to the building’s structural integrity. Local stone materials are utilized to enhance contextual relevance while supporting the local economy. Additionally, solar panels and green roofs are integrated into the design, enhancing energy efficiency and fostering urban biodiversity through the incorporation of green walls and community-centric public spaces. These elements collectively create an environment that prioritizes ecological sustainability while facilitating public interaction and engagement.

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

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Competition organisers

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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