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Circular Water Feature Framing Community Engagement with Reinforced Concrete and Glass Elements

Author:
Antoine Hugo Dherbecourt
Circular Water Feature Framing Community Engagement with Reinforced Concrete and Glass Elements

Project in-detail

A central circular fountain is framed by a juxtaposition of reinforced concrete and glass, creating an inviting public space that fosters community interaction and cultural events in Kharkiv.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central circular fountain serves as a multifunctional gathering space for community events.
02
Reinforced concrete construction ensures durability while integrating sustainable design principles.
03
Glass elements provide transparency, enhancing visual connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
The project incorporates diverse native plant species to promote urban biodiversity and environmental health.
05
Designed to honor local history, the memorial element reflects the themes of freedom and resilience.
The Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival project is a significant architectural initiative located in Kharkiv, Ukraine, designed to revitalize one of the city's most important public spaces. This project focuses on the integration of historical elements with contemporary design, creating a multifunctional area suitable for public events, cultural activities, and community gatherings. The project embodies principles of memory, cultural exchange, and sustainability while respecting the historical and emotional significance of the site.

Well-defined features of this project include a central circular fountain that serves as a gathering point, a prominent war memorial symbolizing freedom and resilience, and a regional administration building that promotes transparency in governance. The use of reinforced concrete for structural integrity and glass and steel for visual accessibility exemplifies a modern architectural approach. In addition, natural materials like wood enhance the communal areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The inclusion of diverse plant life throughout the square contributes to the environmental sustainability goals of the project and provides shade and canopy coverage.

Cultural Significance and Community Engagement

The design uniquely intertwines historical narratives with contemporary functionality, which sets the Kharkiv Freedom Square apart from other urban revitalization projects. The architectural elements serve not only aesthetic purposes but also foster a sense of identity and belonging within the community. The memorial aspect of the project is designed with sensitivity, allowing visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom. Additionally, the agora, or public assembly area, is structured to enhance social interaction and community events, encouraging a sense of togetherness and civic pride.

Another distinctive aspect is the strategic integration of ecological principles. A carefully selected palette of local trees and plants is utilized throughout the square, intending to improve urban biodiversity while also enhancing the landscape's visual appeal. This sustainable design aspect reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship, addressing contemporary concerns about urbanization and ecological balance.

Design Details and Functionality

Architecturally, the project employs a mix of materials, including reinforced concrete for the primary structural framework, glass for transparency, and natural stone paving for pedestrian pathways. This combination allows for durability and adaptability to the local climate while ensuring that the design complements the surrounding environment. The proportions of the buildings, paired with the open spaces, are meticulously planned to ensure optimal daylight entry and airflow, creating a comfortable environment for users.

The various components of the project are intentionally designed to accommodate diverse activities. The central fountain area can host community gatherings, cultural performances, and public markets, while the surrounding green spaces provide areas for relaxation and informal gatherings. This multifunctionality is integral to the project's design, making it a versatile space that adapts to the needs of the community.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and design intricacies of the Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project's architectural plans and sections. Engaging with these elements will provide insight into the thoughtful considerations behind the design, and how they contribute to a cohesive urban experience.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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