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Inflatable Structures with Recycled Concrete for Adaptive Community Spaces

Inflatable Structures with Recycled Concrete for Adaptive Community Spaces
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Utilizing inflatable structures made from ETFE and incorporating recycled concrete, the design fosters community resilience while providing adaptable spaces for social interaction and recovery in a post-conflict environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes inflatable ETFE structures for rapid deployment and flexibility.
02
Incorporates recycled concrete from existing site materials to minimize waste.
03
Features a modular design that adapts to varying community needs and conditions.
04
Connects multiple functional spaces through elevated pathways for enhanced accessibility.
05
Emphasizes social interaction by creating open communal areas within the structure.

## Overview

"Hope in the Air" is a residential architectural project located in Kharkiv, Ukraine, designed as a response to the challenges of urban recovery following the war. The proposal utilizes inflatable structures and modular elements to address the urgent need for resilience and adaptability in the rebuilding process. This design aims to restore not just the physical environment but also community interaction within an enhanced urban context.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Resilience

The design features a series of hexagonally shaped inflatable domes interconnected by elevated pathways, facilitating a network of functional spaces. Each dome is designated for specific uses, including markets, recreational areas, and communal gathering spots, thereby fostering social interaction. The modular nature of the inflatable system allows it to be tailored to various damage levels and site conditions, ensuring that it effectively meets the diverse needs of the community while enhancing overall connectivity.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection is integral to the project's functionality and sustainability goals. Key materials include ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) for its lightweight and insulating properties, recycled concrete to minimize environmental impact, and high- and low-pressure inflatable materials designed for rapid deployment. This combination not only ensures durability and ease of assembly but also supports environmental responsibility by utilizing local resources and reducing waste during the recovery process. Moreover, the layered composite constructions enhance both structural integrity and energy efficiency, contributing to a more durable urban environment.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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