Located in Saltivka, a residential district of Kharkiv shaped by its Soviet-era industrial past, Energize: A Vision and Hope proposes a comprehensive strategy for urban renewal in a post-conflict context. The design aims to foster a more connected community while addressing the psychological and physical impact of prolonged deterioration and recent destruction. Emphasis is placed on reactivating underutilized spaces and enhancing the livability of existing housing stock.

Facade Renewal and Modular Interventions
A key design move involves reskinning the existing concrete housing blocks to improve environmental quality and visual cohesion. The intervention updates the facades with materials that soften the harshness of the original structures, improving the street-level experience and reinforcing a sense of collective identity. Three modular strategies—the Green Block, Extended Block, and Sustainable Block—respond to diverse community needs. These modules introduce adaptable spaces that support social engagement, access to nature, and energy efficiency.

Public Realm and Resource Reuse
Open space is redefined through the creation of communal green areas, social lobbies at ground level, and circulation improvements such as bike lanes and designated parking. These interventions aim to promote mobility, inclusivity, and shared use of space. War debris is repurposed as construction material, embedding traces of the area’s recent history into new structures and supporting a narrative of resilience and resourcefulness.