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Subterranean Gathering Spaces Crafted with Natural Stone and Sustainable Timber

Authors:
Fatma melike Baltalar özkan, Sanem Oktay, Göksu Naz Aktaş, Ilhan Erim Unal
Subterranean Gathering Spaces Crafted with Natural Stone and Sustainable Timber

Project in-detail

Crafted from natural stone and sustainable timber, this underground complex transforms traditional refuge spaces into vibrant community gathering areas designed for public engagement and cultural expression.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes subterranean spaces historically linked to community resilience.
02
Features adaptable performance areas catering to diverse cultural activities.
03
Constructed with locally sourced natural stone for context-specific relevance.
04
Integrates educational facilities within a refuge design for dual functionality.
05
Promotes sustainability through the use of eco-friendly timber materials.

## Project Overview
The SUBTERRA project, situated in Kharkiv, Ukraine, seeks to revitalize Freedom Square and its neighboring areas through innovative architectural design rooted in resilience and community engagement. Inspired by the city's historical underground spaces that provided refuge during periods of adversity, the project aims to transform public areas into platforms for civic expression, educational initiatives, and cultural activities while reflecting the identity of the Ukrainian people.

## Spatial Strategy
The design integrates public expression and cultural identity within a flexible framework that emphasizes social interaction. Key features include adaptable performance and exhibition spaces, equipped to host a variety of community events ranging from art displays to educational workshops. The spatial organization fosters dialogue and connection among individuals, reinforcing a sense of community within the urban environment. Specific areas, such as the community circles, are designed for intimate gatherings, offering privacy without isolation.

## Materiality and Function
The architectural vision incorporates a selection of materials that prioritize sustainability and local cultural heritage. Reinforced concrete serves as the primary structural element due to its strength and durability, while glass facades ensure transparency and connectivity between indoor and outdoor environments. The integration of natural stone finishes honors local traditions, and sustainable timber in selected areas adds warmth to the design. A notable feature is the underground library and dual-purpose shelter, which provide essential resources while also ensuring safety during emergencies. The careful selection of materials and structural details underscores the project’s commitment to adaptability and resilience in the face of changing community needs.

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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

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