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Cross-Laminated Timber and Reclaimed Spolia Forming a Community-Centric Civic Space

Cross-Laminated Timber and Reclaimed Spolia Forming a Community-Centric Civic Space
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Utilizing cross-laminated timber and integrating reclaimed spolia from historical structures, the design redefines Freedom Square as a community hub focused on civic engagement and transparency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and warmth.
02
Incorporates reclaimed spolia from the old administration building.
03
Features a skybridge connecting civic functions and the public space.
04
Designed with extensive glass facades to enhance visual transparency.
05
Emphasizes green edges to promote urban biodiversity and sustainability.

### Overview and Intent
"Concentric Connections" is an architectural initiative aimed at redefining the public space of Freedom Square in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Located in the city’s central district, the project responds to historical concerns regarding civic engagement and administrative inefficiencies. The design seeks to create an accessible and participatory environment that fosters community involvement while respecting the historical context of the area.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The design promotes a flexible urban environment that encourages diverse community activities. Freedom Square is transformed into a pedestrian-friendly space that accommodates markets, performances, and leisure pursuits. By prioritizing green areas and public amenities, the square is envisioned as a vibrant hub for social interaction. Central to the scheme is the new Regional Administration Building, featuring a façade of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glass that fosters transparency and openness. The building includes public gathering spaces, such as an open forum for dialogue and a skybridge that connects different administrative functions while offering safe passage over vehicular traffic.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The project utilizes a carefully selected range of materials that reflect both functionality and aesthetic quality. Cross-laminated timber serves as a warm structural element, while steel provides modern contrast in the skybridge and towers. Large glass façades enhance visual connectivity and encourage interaction throughout the site. Incorporating reclaimed materials from the former administration building not only anchors the new design within its historical context but also reinforces sustainability efforts. Other environmentally conscious strategies include sourcing local timber, optimizing energy efficiency through passive solar designs, and creating green spaces that promote urban biodiversity. The careful integration of these elements aims to enhance the ecological quality of the urban landscape while supporting community engagement.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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