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Earth-Sheltered Residences with Reinforced Concrete and Blast-Resistant Glazing for Enhanced Community Resilience

Author:
Bryan Najim Heidmous
Earth-Sheltered Residences with Reinforced Concrete and Blast-Resistant Glazing for Enhanced Community Resilience

Project in-detail

Incorporating reinforced concrete combined with earth sheltering, the design maximizes safety and energy efficiency, creating resilient housing solutions within a community-focused framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates bomb shelter components into residential units for enhanced safety.
02
Employs a 1/2-meter thick earth covering for natural insulation and protection.
03
Utilizes local materials to minimize environmental impact and support the economy.
04
Features modular construction for rapid assembly and adaptability.
05
Incorporates water collection systems to aid in sustainable irrigation practices.
The Kharkiv Housing Challenge represents a thoughtful architectural response to the contemporary needs of urban living in Kharkiv. This project is designed to address the challenges of safety, community integration, and sustainability within a modular framework. The architecture focuses on creating flexible and adaptive living spaces that function effectively in an evolving urban environment.

The primary function of this design is to provide residents with safety and community-centric amenities while integrating essential services into the living environment. The layout includes public spaces for community engagement alongside private residential units, creating a balanced ecosystem that encourages interaction and enhances the quality of life for inhabitants.

Unique Design Approaches

This architecture distinguishes itself through its modular construction, allowing for rapid assembly and easy modification to meet the diverse needs of the community. Each unit is designed with a bomb shelter component that incorporates reinforced structural elements, enhancing safety for residents. The use of a 1/2-meter thick earth covering serves not only as a protective measure but also contributes to thermal insulation, optimizing the building's energy efficiency.

Additionally, the design incorporates sustainable practices such as water collection systems to facilitate irrigation and local materials that reduce environmental impact. These choices reflect an understanding of local conditions and challenges, positioning this project as a model for urban resilience.

Integration of Community Facilities

The project's architectural design includes multiple communal spaces, such as community centers, libraries, and grocery stores, which serve functional purposes beyond mere habitation. These areas are strategically placed to foster social interaction among residents, reinforcing community ties. The inclusion of multifunctional spaces within a modular framework enhances the adaptability of the building to serve various purposes over time, responding effectively to the dynamic needs of the locality.

The use of advanced materials such as reinforced concrete, blast-resistant glazing, and energy-efficient thermal insulation demonstrates a commitment to durability and long-term performance. Each material is selected not only for its technical attributes but also for its contribution to the overall aesthetic of the design.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project and its architectural intricacies, exploring elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs is essential. These resources provide deeper insights into the structural innovations and community-focused concepts that define this project.
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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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