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Energy-Self-Sufficient Community Hub with Reinforced Concrete and Modular Panels

Author:
Joanna Kopacz-gruzlewska
Energy-Self-Sufficient Community Hub with Reinforced Concrete and Modular Panels

Project in-detail

Incorporating reinforced concrete and energy self-sufficient urban modules, this design provides versatile housing solutions while addressing community resilience and safety in Kharkiv, Ukraine.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bomb shelter modules to enhance resident safety during emergencies.
02
Incorporates solar panels for energy self-sufficiency in community spaces.
03
Features flexible housing configurations to adapt to varying family sizes.
04
Integrates communal hubs to promote social interaction and support networks.
05
Employs rapid assembly techniques for expedited construction timelines.

### Overview

Located on the outskirts of Kharkiv, Ukraine, the Saltivka Re:Enforced initiative addresses critical housing and community infrastructure needs arising from the challenges of warfare. This architectural endeavor employs modular design principles to create a flexible and functional urban environment that accommodates a variety of residents, from individuals to families. The project aims to create not just shelters, but also a supportive social framework for the affected community.

### Modular Housing Design

The housing typologies within the project are strategically developed to meet diverse demographic needs. Studio apartments provide essential living and sleeping areas for young professionals and students, while one-bedroom units cater to couples or singles. Two- and three-bedroom apartments offer family-oriented living options, designed to balance privacy with opportunities for communal engagement. This modular approach facilitates quick assembly and modification, supporting a wide range of living arrangements.

### Community-Centric Urban Modules

In addition to residential spaces, the initiative incorporates urban modules that fulfill key community functions. Bomb shelter urban modules provide reinforced protection and are equipped with solar energy systems, allowing them to double as community centers. Node communication urban modules serve as vertical transport stations and gathering spaces, enhancing connectivity and fostering social interaction among residents. This design promotes integration within the neighborhood while addressing safety concerns in a conflict-affected area.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material choices for the project prioritize durability and performance. Reinforced concrete is widely used for structural stability in the bomb shelter modules, while prefabricated concrete panels streamline construction and reduce timelines. Glass is incorporated into the facades to allow natural light and enhance aesthetic appeal, with safety considerations integrated into their design. Additionally, insulation materials are utilized in walls and roofs to improve energy efficiency and thermal comfort for residents, further promoting sustainable living practices throughout the community.

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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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