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Polycarbonate Facades and Steel Framework Shaping A Modular Urban Community in Kharkiv

Authors:
Yicheng Wang, Qianzhen Li, Victoria Vardanyan
Polycarbonate Facades and Steel Framework Shaping A Modular Urban Community in Kharkiv

Project in-detail

Employing a modular design with polycarbonate facades and a steel framework, this residential complex in Kharkiv reinterprets urban living by integrating community spaces with an adaptable, sustainable structure.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes prefabricated modular units for efficient construction and design flexibility.
02
Incorporates polycarbonate facades to enhance natural light while maintaining energy efficiency.
03
Features a unique "cultural shelf" design element that integrates local heritage into the residential experience.
04
Includes green roof spaces to promote biodiversity and enhance residents' connection to nature.
05
Employs a robust steel framework, ensuring structural integrity in a rapidly changing urban environment.

### Overview

The project in Kharkiv, Ukraine, addresses the challenges of urban reconstruction in a context marked by socio-political upheaval. This design adopts a modular approach that integrates modern architectural techniques with local historical narratives, aiming to create a resilient urban habitat that reflects cultural continuity. By placing emphasis on human-centered design, the initiative seeks to establish a meaningful connection between the built environment and the memories of the community it serves.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Engagement

The interior spaces are thoughtfully organized to accommodate both communal and private activities, fostering a sense of identity among residents. The spatial strategy employs open floor plans that allow for flexible arrangements, encouraging personal expression while delineating zones for shared use. This layout promotes social interaction, ultimately reinforcing community ties. The building acts as a collector and exhibitor of cultural narratives, facilitating a participatory relationship between inhabitants and their environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material palette balances durability and aesthetic appeal to reflect the design's context. Steel is prominently utilized for its structural strength, while a polycarbonate facade enhances the connection between indoor and outdoor environments through natural light. Terracotta and concrete panels ground the project in local architectural traditions, invoking a sense of place. The integration of green roofs not only promotes ecological balance but also enhances the well-being of residents, offering lush views that contrast with the urban landscape. This focus on sustainable practices is evident in the project’s use of modular construction techniques, which allow for adaptability and resource efficiency.

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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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