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Elevated Public Space Featuring Permeable Paving and Integrated Green Landscaping

Authors:
Hsin Kuang Chen, Ting-yu Ling
Elevated Public Space Featuring Permeable Paving and Integrated Green Landscaping

Project in-detail

Integrating permeable paving and a sunken garden within an elevated public square, this design enhances community interaction while promoting environmental sustainability in the heart of Kharkiv.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates an underground passage to enhance pedestrian flow between civic areas.
02
Features a sunken garden to manage stormwater runoff and promote biodiversity.
03
Utilizes photovoltaic panels to power public lighting and amenities sustainably.
04
Includes a multi-use ice skating rink as a seasonal recreational feature.
05
Employs permeable paving to facilitate natural water infiltration and reduce heat island effects.

The Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival project is a comprehensive urban design initiative located in Kharkiv, Ukraine. This architectural endeavor aims to transform Freedom Square into a more functional and engaging public space, aligning with contemporary urban design principles. In addition to enhancing aesthetic appeal, the project emphasizes social interaction, community engagement, and environmental sustainability.

One of the key aspects of the Freedom Square project is its focus on prioritizing pedestrian experiences over vehicular access. The design incorporates an elevated square that elevates public interaction while minimizing the impact of traffic. The integration of green spaces further promotes environmental benefits and provides an inviting atmosphere for community gatherings.

Unique Features and Design Approaches

This project stands out from typical urban renewal efforts through its dedication to blending modernity with the preservation of historical context. The retained elements of the existing administration building illustrate a commitment to celebrating local heritage while incorporating contemporary architectural language. The use of operable sliding skylights and glass panels enhances natural light penetration and visual connection throughout the area, fostering a sense of openness and transparency.

A significant feature is the inclusion of various recreational elements, such as an ice skating rink and a sunken garden. The sunken garden serves not only as an aesthetic addition but also aids in ecological management by enhancing local biodiversity. This multifaceted design strategy ensures diverse activities can occur within the square, promoting active usage and community participation.

Circulation pathways have been thoughtfully designed to enhance accessibility and facilitate easy movement within the space. Underground passages connect key functional areas, including the regional administration building, ensuring user flow remains integrated and seamless.

Sustainable material selection is another vital aspect of this architecture project. The use of permeable paving and photovoltaic panels reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility. The design also emphasizes the incorporation of native plant species, further establishing ecological connectivity within the urban environment.

The Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival project exemplifies contemporary architectural ideas by merging functionality with a deep respect for cultural context. This project not only aims to revitalize the area but also aspires to redefine how urban spaces can serve communities. For a more detailed overview of the architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive presentation of this project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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