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Parametric Design with Intelligent Systems and Sustainable Materials in Urban Revitalization

Author:
Lionel Maurice Scharly
Parametric Design with Intelligent Systems and Sustainable Materials in Urban Revitalization

Project in-detail

Incorporating parametric design and extensive green infrastructure, the revitalization effort effectively transforms Freedom Square into a functional urban space that prioritizes community engagement and accessibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Extensive use of parametric design allows for adaptive responses to environmental factors.
02
Integration of intelligent systems for improved energy management and user experience.
03
Public spaces designed for flexible use, accommodating various community activities.
04
Historical preservation of the Regional Administration Building enhances cultural continuity.
05
Sustainable materials, like cross-laminated timber and charred wood, support eco-friendly practices.

### Overview

The Kharkiv Freedom Revival project, conceived by the Norman Foster Foundation in collaboration with the Kharkiv City Council, UNECE, and Arup, aims to revitalize Freedom Square in Kharkiv, Ukraine. This significant square, recognized as one of the largest in Europe, serves as a historical landmark. The initiative seeks to honor the square's heritage while integrating modern design and sustainability into its public spaces.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Interaction

The project focuses on enhancing Freedom Square as a pedestrian-oriented environment that encourages social interactions. It prioritizes the renovation of two key components: the Regional Administration Building, which will undergo refurbishment to improve its structural integrity and aesthetic characteristics, and the public realm of Freedom Square itself. The redesign aims to facilitate pedestrian movement, ensure accessibility, and incorporate green infrastructure, thereby creating a vibrant urban space conducive to cultural activities and public engagement.

### Innovative Material Use and Design Techniques

The material selection for the project emphasizes durability and environmental sustainability. Concrete is chosen for its structural advantages, while glass elements enhance natural illumination and foster a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Sustainable materials are employed wherever feasible, guided by AI-driven simulations that optimize selection for energy efficiency.

The design employs parametric principles to create adaptable structures that can respond to environmental conditions and user needs. This method not only forecasts structural performance but also enhances sustainability and user experience through intelligent systems. Green infrastructure integrates lush landscaping and public art spaces, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the microclimate of the area while providing flexible venues for community gatherings and cultural expressions.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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