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Prefabricated Concrete Units with Adaptive Balconies for Urban Resilience

Authors:
An-Tai Lu, Kohki Hiramatsu
Prefabricated Concrete Units with Adaptive Balconies for Urban Resilience

Project in-detail

Utilizing prefabricated concrete panels and modular design, the development integrates communal spaces and adaptable balconies to create efficient housing solutions for urban recovery.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes prefabricated concrete panels to expedite construction and reduce waste.
02
Integrates communal balconies designed to foster social interaction among residents.
03
Adapts existing damaged structures to enhance urban recovery efforts.
04
Incorporates insulation materials for improved energy efficiency and comfort.
05
Features modular design to allow for flexible reconfiguration and usage.
The BACKBONE project in Kharkiv, Ukraine, exemplifies a purposeful architectural design that addresses the urgent needs following extensive urban destruction due to conflict. The design focuses on modularity, adaptability, and community integration as its core principles. By leveraging prefabrication techniques, the project aims to provide rapid housing solutions while promoting a sense of community among residents.

The layout includes a mixture of residential units and communal spaces, making it practical for various social interactions. The building structure combines pre-fabricated concrete panels and aluminum frame windows to create functional yet inviting living environments. The distinctive architectural language blends historical references with modern materials, aimed at reflecting the local context while providing efficient living solutions.

Modularity and Resilience in Design

What sets the BACKBONE project apart from conventional residential architectures is its emphasis on modularity. Each unit is designed to be self-sufficient, able to adapt to the condition of existing damaged structures. This approach permits not only rapid construction but also an ability to respond to varying degrees of urban damage. The incorporation of outdoor balconies and flexible communal areas further enhances social engagement, allowing residents to utilize shared resources effectively.

The selection of materials plays a crucial role in expressing resilience. The use of pre-fabricated concrete panels for the structure offers durability, while insulation and ventilated facades contribute to energy efficiency. This combination ensures that the design can withstand future challenges, making it a practical solution for long-term urban recovery.

Community-Centric Spaces and Functionality

The architectural design prioritizes a sense of community by integrating public areas within the framework of the building. These spaces are strategically distributed to foster interaction among residents, making them essential components of the overall design. Areas designated for temporary shelters signify a forward-thinking approach, providing flexibility to accommodate urgent housing needs.

Services such as communal gardens and shared recreational spaces promote coexistence among residents while enhancing the overall quality of life. This aspect is critical in post-conflict settings, where community rebuilding is paramount. The careful consideration of how architecture can facilitate social connections distinguishes the BACKBONE project from typical residential developments.

For further exploration of the BACKBONE project, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a deeper understanding of the innovative design concepts and functional approaches. The project's architectural ideas reflect a significant step toward rebuilding urban resilience in Kharkiv.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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