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Dual-Purpose Underground Shelter Crafted with Reinforced Concrete and Photovoltaic Panels

Author:
Kazi Mahzuza Maysun
Dual-Purpose Underground Shelter Crafted with Reinforced Concrete and Photovoltaic Panels

Project in-detail

Incorporating reinforced concrete and photovoltaic technology, the design functions as a multifunctional public space while providing emergency shelter capabilities for the community in Kharkiv.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates advanced non-Newtonian materials for enhanced shock absorption.
02
Features subterranean access points for connectivity and safety.
03
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems integrated into landscape design.
04
Designed for multifunctionality, serving as a public space and emergency shelter.
05
Emphasizes community resilience through adaptable architectural elements.

The project surrounding Freedom Square in Kharkiv, Ukraine, focuses on enhancing public space within a historically significant urban context. Driven by the intent to foster community engagement and resilience, the design addresses existing challenges, including traffic congestion, damage from conflict, and limited public amenities. By creating a versatile public realm, the project aims to reflect the enduring spirit of the local population while providing a functional and inviting environment.

### Spatial Organization and Community Functionality

The design organizes Freedom Square into three distinct zones: activity and multifunctional areas, surface-level activity zones, and emergency shelter areas. The multipurpose activity zones accommodate festivals, markets, and public gatherings, enhancing social interaction among citizens. Pathways for pedestrians and cyclists are integrated into the surface-level activity zones, promoting recreational use and connectivity. The emergency shelter areas are equipped to support the community during crises, demonstrating a commitment to safety through adaptable design.

### Technological Integration and Material Selection

The project's material selection emphasizes durability and sustainability. Key materials include glass for transparency, steel for structural integrity, and reinforced concrete for robustness. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels seeks to enhance energy efficiency, while advanced technologies, such as rainwater harvesting systems and kinetic energy solutions, contribute to resource management. This blend of materials and technologies not only provides structural resilience but also educates the public on sustainability practices, encouraging broader civic participation in environmental responsibilities.

Key features, such as subterranean passages connecting to administrative buildings and wide walkways, enhance pedestrian connectivity throughout the square, ensuring accessibility for diverse user groups. Emergency preparedness is prioritized through dual-purpose facilities, including underground parking designed to serve as a shelter and public amenities that can be repurposed in crisis situations.

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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

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