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Recycled Steel and Low-Iron Glass Enhance Community Engagement in Urban Public Space

Author:
Nusrat Sumaiya
Recycled Steel and Low-Iron Glass Enhance Community Engagement in Urban Public Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled steel and low-iron glass, this urban public space redefines community interaction through an adaptable plaza that seamlessly connects to nature while fostering cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled concrete is used for paving to reduce environmental impact.
02
Low-iron electrochromatic glass adapts its transparency for nighttime use.
03
Artificial mounds increase biodiversity while integrating with the landscape.
04
Dedicated bicycle lanes promote sustainable transportation options.
05
Flexible plaza areas accommodate various community events and gatherings.

### Overview
The Entwine project aims to revitalize Freedom Square in Kharkiv, Ukraine, by enhancing its role as a significant public space in Europe. Through carefully considered urban planning and design strategies, the project seeks to strengthen the relationship between the city and its natural surroundings while prioritizing historical context, environmental sustainability, and community engagement.

### Spatial Strategy and Connectivity
The design emphasizes interconnectivity among Freedom Square, the nearby Shevchenko Garden, and the Regional Administrative Building. Central to this strategy are circular forms that promote unity and continuity. The layout features two overlapping circles facilitating diverse viewpoints and encouraging movement throughout the space. Varied zones within the plaza accommodate a range of activities, from festivals to public gatherings, fostering a robust communal atmosphere. Elevated walkways and flexible spaces enhance accessibility and interaction, seamlessly integrating urban and green environments.

### Materials and Environmental Responsibility
The project utilizes sustainable materials to reflect its commitment to environmental stewardship. Recycled concrete and steel are employed in paving and structural elements, respectively, minimizing waste while supporting local economic initiatives. Low-iron electrochromatic glass is incorporated for its dynamic lighting capabilities, while eco-friendly paints and sealants improve indoor air quality by reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The design also features green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems, addressing urban heat effects and enhancing stormwater management through permeable surfaces that promote groundwater recharge and ecological adaptation.

In summary, the Entwine project is characterized by its intention to create intentional communal spaces, improve pedestrian mobility, and integrate ecological principles, making it a relevant model for future urban developments.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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