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Glass Link and Local Stone Create Integrated Community Space in Kharkiv

Author:
Cristina Isabel Silva De Castro E Pita Lúcio
Glass Link and Local Stone Create Integrated Community Space in Kharkiv

Project in-detail

A glass bridge connects historic structures with local stone and timber elements to create a public space that fosters community engagement and interaction in Kharkiv.
5 key facts about this project
01
A glass bridge integrates seamlessly with the historic Kharkiv Administration building.
02
Local stone and timber materials establish a connection to the region's cultural heritage.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency while promoting sustainability.
04
The design incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for landscape irrigation.
05
Flexible seating arrangements facilitate diverse community activities and gatherings.

### Overview
The project seeks to revitalize Freedom Square in Kharkiv, aiming to create a community-focused space that integrates contemporary architectural design with the site’s historical significance. The initiative connects the existing Kharkiv Administration building with an expanded public square, emphasizing continuity and interaction among users.

### Architectural Integration
A key element is the glass bridge that links the administrative building and the square. This architectural feature is characterized by extensive glass panels that promote transparency, allowing natural light to permeate and fostering visual connectivity. The design respects the heritage of the existing structure while introducing modern elements, thus creating a juxtaposition that enhances the site's visual appeal. Freedom Square itself is designed as a multifunctional public realm, complete with landscaped areas and pedestrian pathways, which support diverse activities such as markets and performances. Incorporating modular seating and shaded spaces promotes comfort and encourages community interaction.

### Sustainable Design Practices
The project employs a careful selection of materials with an emphasis on sustainability and local authenticity. Glass is extensively used in the bridge, optimizing energy performance while providing sweeping views. Stone and locally sourced timber enhance the historical resonance of the design and contribute to its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, low-impact materials, including recycled concrete, minimize the carbon footprint. Solar panels integrated into the bridge provide renewable energy for public amenities, while a rainwater harvesting system supports landscape irrigation, underscoring a commitment to environmentally responsible practices.

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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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