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Natural Stone Paving and Reinforced Concrete Foster Community Interaction in Urban Revitalization

Authors:
Mykyta Lytvynenko, Laurenz Schröder
Natural Stone Paving and Reinforced Concrete Foster Community Interaction in Urban Revitalization

Project in-detail

Reinforced concrete elements blend seamlessly with natural stone paving to create an inviting central plaza that enhances civic engagement in Kharkiv’s urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reinforced concrete integrates with natural stone to create a seamless interaction between built and natural environments.
02
The design features multifunctional spaces that accommodate events and daily community activities.
03
A central fountain enhances environmental quality while serving as a focal point for public gatherings.
04
The layout promotes pedestrian accessibility with clear pathways and open green areas.
05
Cultural institutions are incorporated to strengthen the area’s artistic and social fabric.
The Freedom Square Revival Project seeks to redefine the urban landscape of Kharkiv, Ukraine, by transforming the historically significant Freedom Square into a modern public space that fosters community interaction and civic engagement. The design integrates natural elements and architectural features that reflect the character of the city while addressing contemporary urban needs.

Central to the project is the layout organized around a prominent plaza, which serves as a flexible public space for gatherings, events, and daily social interactions. The architectural design emphasizes a balance between built environments and green spaces, ensuring that the square remains a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike.

Innovative Design Approaches

The Freedom Square Revival distinguishes itself through its circular master plan, which promotes inclusivity and accessibility. This design choice symbolizes unity within the community and encourages diverse interactions among different demographic groups. Carefully considered building forms provide a variety of heights and shapes, allowing for visual interest that invitations exploration.

Noteworthy features of the design include integrated green spaces that enhance the urban experience, as well as water elements such as a central fountain that contribute to environmental quality and aesthetic appeal. This combination aims to improve both the social fabric of the area and the microclimate, making the space comfortable for year-round use.

Architectural Materiality

The materials selected for the project reinforce the dual emphasis on sustainability and historical context. Reinforced concrete forms the structural backbone of the design, while expanses of glass in the façades maximize natural light and establish transparency within the space. Natural stone is employed for plaza pavings, creating a tactile connection to the site’s legacy while supporting durable and lasting surfaces.

Community Engagement and Functionality

The design focuses on enhancing the function of Freedom Square as a civic space. By promoting pedestrian accessibility and movement, the project ensures that this area serves as a lively venue for public life. Additionally, provisions for cultural institutions within the design cater to the community's artistic and social needs, reinforcing the square's role as a center for cultural engagement.

Those interested in exploring the Freedom Square Revival Project further are encouraged to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented, which provide deeper insights into the project's comprehensive approach and unique architectural ideas.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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