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

Dual-Purpose Underground Shelter Crafted with Reinforced Concrete and Photovoltaic Panels
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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