Architecture project // Natural Stone and Concrete Structures Enhanced by Transparent Facades for Community Engagement

Natural Stone and Concrete Structures Enhanced by Transparent Facades for Community Engagement

Authors:

Hexuan Yu, Yuwei Cong, Riko Sobukawa,

Yen Kang Yeh

A blend of natural stone and expansive glass facades creates a transparent dialogue with the surrounding landscape, serving as a multifunctional space for community engagement and reflection.

5 key facts about this project

Natural stone and concrete are combined in an innovative structural approach that enhances durability and aesthetics.

The project utilizes expansive glass facades to create seamless connections between interior spaces and the surrounding environment.

Flexible spaces are designed to adapt for various community events and activities, promoting engagement and interaction.

A dedicated “Statue of Absence” serves as a thoughtful memorial element integrated into the public plaza.

Sustainable practices are emphasized through features like green roofs and natural ventilation strategies.

General keywords

ukraine public space cultural hub community interaction memorial sustainability urban renewal flexible spaces historical context exhibition hall

Project specific keywords

natural stone light cone stacked functions social hub statue absence colonnade arches community gardens flexible layout urban atrium memorial design

### Overview

The project titled "Blank" is situated in a central urban area reflective of historical narratives and sociopolitical dynamics, likely influenced by Soviet-era planning, in a European context similar to that of Kyiv, Ukraine. This design initiative aims to celebrate public space while acknowledging the site's complex history and the need for societal rebuilding. The concept emphasizes transformation, merging the historical context with contemporary public life to create a space that fosters new interactions and dialogues within the community.

### Historical Context and Public Engagement

The design framework is deeply rooted in the awareness of historical oppression, yet it symbolizes resilience and renewal. By prioritizing accessible public spaces, the project promotes community interaction and encourages discourse regarding the past and future of the urban environment. The integration of diverse architectural features allows for an exploration of memory, identity, and collective action, facilitating shared experiences among users.

### Materiality and Environmental Responsiveness

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in conveying the project's intent. Concrete provides structural integrity, while glass enhances transparency and connection with the surrounding environment. Steel elements add a modern aesthetic without overshadowing the historical context. Natural stone links the new design to the site’s past, embodying permanence and memory.

Key design outcomes include a central plaza that accommodates various events and landscaped areas that add comfort and greenery. The vertical arrangement of functions promotes efficient circulation, with spaces like the atrium serving as communal hubs. Unique features, such as the "Statue of Absence," invite contemplation on memory, while elements like light cones and roof gardens are designed for sustainability, ensuring optimal natural lighting and ventilation. These flexible spaces adapt to community needs, promoting an inclusive philosophy that encourages public ownership and active engagement with the urban landscape.