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Reflective Pools and Transparent Facades Enhance Community Connectivity Through Sustainable Materials

Authors:
Vitalii Sobchenko, Yaroslav Protsyk, Dmytrii Kupchyn
Reflective Pools and Transparent Facades Enhance Community Connectivity Through Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular design and a glass facade to create transparency and connectivity, the space transforms Freedom Square into a vibrant civic hub that honors community history through a central memorial and sustainable landscaping.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transparent facades allow natural visibility into civic functions, promoting transparency in governance.
02
A modular layout facilitates versatile use of space for various community events and gatherings.
03
Native planting and green terraces enhance biodiversity while reducing urban heat.
04
Reflective pools serve as both aesthetic features and urban cooling solutions.
05
The central memorial integrates local history into the public space, fostering community identity.
The Freedom Square Revival project in Kharkiv, Ukraine, serves as a contemporary reimagining of a historically significant urban space. Designed with the intent to enhance public interaction while honoring local heritage, this architectural project integrates modern principles of design with the cultural context of the region. Its primary function revolves around promoting civic engagement and fostering community identity through well-defined, multipurpose spaces that accommodate a variety of gatherings and activities.

The design sets out to create a welcoming environment that encourages pedestrian traffic and social interaction. This is achieved through the integration of open plazas, landscaped areas, and strategic pathways, all facilitating fluid movement and access. Key elements of the project include a prominent memorial titled "All for Victory," which stands as a reminder of the community's history and resilience. Additionally, the inclusion of the regional administration building symbolizes transparency and civic participation, enhancing the square's role as a center for governance and community dialogue.

Unique Design Approaches in Freedom Square Revival

A defining aspect of the Freedom Square Revival project is its modular design framework, allowing for versatile use of space. This approach enables the square to adapt to various events, from cultural festivals to everyday public gatherings, ensuring the area remains vibrant and active. The choice of materials, such as concrete, glass, steel, and timber, plays a vital role in establishing an inviting atmosphere. The use of glass allows for maximum transparency in the administrative functions housed within the regional building, reinforcing the project's commitment to openness.

Another unique feature is the careful integration of ecological elements into the urban landscape. The incorporation of green terraces and water features not only enhances the visual appeal but also addresses environmental concerns by improving air quality and promoting biodiversity. This sustainable focus aligns with modern architectural trends that prioritize ecological responsibility in urban development.

Key Architectural Features and Functional Elements

The layout of Freedom Square emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity. Wide pathways connect various zones, encouraging movement across the space. The landscape architecture incorporates native plant species, reducing maintenance needs while enriching the urban ecosystem. The resilient design ensures that the square can accommodate large gatherings without compromising comfort or usability.

Underground parking is introduced to minimize surface disruption, allowing the above-ground area to function as a serene refuge from urban traffic. This transport strategy complements the overall design ethos, enhancing the user experience while supporting sustainable practices.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Freedom Square Revival project, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Detailed insights into the architectural strategies utilized in this urban redevelopment initiative provide a richer perspective on its significance within Kharkiv's architectural landscape.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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