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Impact-Resistant Design Using Precast Concrete and Biophilic Elements for Urban Resilience

Author:
Nicole Mendoza Sarmiento
Impact-Resistant Design Using Precast Concrete and Biophilic Elements for Urban Resilience

Project in-detail

Utilizing layered defense mechanisms and precast concrete, the design redefines urban resilience in Kharkiv by creating a safe residential environment that fosters community while addressing the realities of conflict.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a multilayered defense system tailored for urban warfare conditions.
02
Incorporates precast concrete elements for enhanced structural resilience.
03
Features balconies designed for both safety and recreational use.
04
Integrates renewable technologies like solar panels for energy efficiency.
05
Emphasizes communal spaces to foster community interaction and support.

### Project Overview
The design initiative encompasses a series of innovative structures, titled "Undefeated. Not a victim," alongside an underground community village in Kharkiv, Ukraine. This project addresses the complex realities of resilience in wartime, with the intent to create safe living environments by integrating functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic considerations. Central to the project is an exploration of architectural strategies that mitigate the impacts of conflict on urban life.

### Architectural Strategies
The design incorporates a layered defense system, where each layer has a specific functional purpose aimed at enhancing safety and resilience. The primary structure features four distinct "defense" layers: the first serves as a deterrence to manage impacts through architectural form; the second includes balconies for structural relief and personal use; the third utilizes retrofitted concrete for stability; and the fourth employs advanced materials engineered to withstand severe impacts. These strategies not only provide physical protection but also foster a sense of community through well-conceived communal and private spaces.

### Material and Sustainability
A diverse palette of materials is employed to support both resilience and sustainability. Precast concrete forms the backbone of the structural components, providing enhanced durability, while glass facades increase natural light and create a visual connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The hybrid layered facades combine aesthetic appeal with functional resilience. Incorporating sustainable resources such as aeromine energy systems and solar panels further aligns the project with efficient energy use. Additionally, the integration of green elements within the design enhances both the aesthetic quality and psychological well-being of residents, reinforcing a commitment to biophilic design principles. These innovations reflect a proactive approach to resource management and environmental integration in urban warfare contexts.

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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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