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Repurposed Rubble and Steel Beams Transforming Public Space Into a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Diego Andrés Alday Alba, Gonzalo Andrés Ugarte Smith, Magdalena Abril Bertholet Arias, Agustín Pimentel Beltran
Repurposed Rubble and Steel Beams Transforming Public Space Into a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Repurposed steel beams and recycled rubble form an engaging urban landscape that fosters community interaction and cultural events in the heart of Kharkiv.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed steel beams from demolished buildings create structural supports while preserving historical elements.
02
Topographic mounds made from recycled rubble serve both ecological and memorial functions.
03
Dynamic glass façades integrate LED displays for year-round cultural engagement.
04
Extensive green infrastructure enhances biodiversity and promotes urban ecology.
05
Flexible spaces accommodate a variety of seasonal community events and gatherings.
The Freedom Square architectural project in Kharkiv, Ukraine, serves as a modern public space emphasizing community interaction and historical continuity. Positioned in a historically significant urban area, the square functions as a multifunctional hub for cultural and social activities. It incorporates various design elements that promote public engagement while honoring the site's past. The integration of recycled materials adds a layer of sustainability to the project, allowing it to resonate with contemporary architectural practices.

The layout features an innovative combination of topographic mounds and open spaces designed for diverse community gatherings. These mounds, constructed from recycled rubble, serve both as memorials to the area’s history and as functional spaces for recreation and events. The design enhances accessibility and invites community participation, reflecting a commitment to creating a cohesive urban environment.

One of the project's unique approaches lies in its materiality, with a focus on sustainability and historicity. The use of steel from demolished structures not only provides structural integrity but also embodies the remnants of Kharkiv's architectural past. Additionally, glass façades and LED features of the administration building integrate modern technology, allowing for dynamic public displays. This contrasts with traditional fixed design approaches typically seen in similar projects, enabling the space to adapt visually and functionally to the needs of the community.

Furthermore, the project incorporates extensive green infrastructure, promoting ecological balance and biodiversity. The design encourages residents to engage with their environment, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the public space. Such features delineate Freedom Square from other urban redevelopment initiatives, showcasing an architectural philosophy that prioritizes resilience, community interaction, and sustainability.

The combination of historical awareness, adaptive reuse, and community-focused design sets Freedom Square apart as a notable example of contemporary architecture. For a more in-depth examination of the architectural plans, sections, and overall design, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation for further insights into its architectural ideas and implementation.
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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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