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Sunflower-Inspired Facades Featuring Ultra-High-Performance Concrete and Flexible Modular Units in Residential Housing

Author:
Corinne Christine Monique Bonhomme
Sunflower-Inspired Facades Featuring Ultra-High-Performance Concrete and Flexible Modular Units in Residential Housing

Project in-detail

Inspired by the geometry of the sunflower, the residential design utilizes Ultra-High-Performance Concrete and modular units to create a sustainable community living environment in Kharkiv.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sunflower-inspired facades integrate sacred geometry for enhanced spatial harmony.
02
Ultra-High-Performance Concrete provides durability while allowing for flexible modular designs.
03
Community areas feature rainwater harvesting systems and communal gardens for sustainability.
04
Incorporation of bomb shelters addresses safety needs within the residential layout.
05
Vertical circulation routes encourage interaction and connectivity among residents.

### Project Overview

The redesign of panel housing in Kharkiv, Ukraine, focuses on improving residential structures in a post-conflict urban context. The intent of the project is to create cohesive living environments that support community well-being while addressing the challenges posed by economic and social instability. The design draws inspiration from the sunflower, a national symbol of Ukraine, which embodies resilience and hope for the future.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Integration

The project emphasizes the integration of public spaces to enhance community interaction and connectivity. By incorporating community gardens, play areas, and facilities for rainwater harvesting, the design promotes sustainable practices while facilitating social engagement among residents. The residential units are configured with modular designs, allowing flexibility to accommodate varying family structures and social dynamics. Vertical circulation and communal areas are strategically designed to encourage interaction, thus fostering a sense of community.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

The materials selected for construction play a crucial role in the project's sustainability and durability. Ultra-High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (UHPC) is employed for its strength and environmental benefits, while metal components help streamline structural connections. Wooden elements are utilized within the interiors to provide warmth and aesthetic appeal, and glass facades enhance natural lighting and visibility. These choices reflect a commitment to creating a resilient living environment that balances functionality with ecological mindfulness.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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