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Tensile Membrane Structures and Underground Museum Transforming Civic Engagement in Urban Spaces

Author:
Orod Aris
Tensile Membrane Structures and Underground Museum Transforming Civic Engagement in Urban Spaces

Project in-detail

The integration of tensile membrane structures with an underground museum offers a unique blend of sustainability and historical reflection, creating a multifunctional civic space that encourages community engagement and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Tensile membrane structures provide a lightweight, flexible design that enhances spatial dynamics.
02
The underground museum preserves local history while maintaining a visually open plaza.
03
A diamond-shaped ground plane encourages fluid movement and social interaction among users.
04
Sustainable photovoltaic panels are integrated into the tensile membranes for energy efficiency.
05
The design incorporates extensive greenery, promoting biodiversity and environmental connection.
The Kharkiv Freedom Square project is an architectural initiative located in Kharkiv, Ukraine, aiming to create a politically and culturally significant public space. By addressing contemporary urban needs, this project serves multiple functions, including hosting civic activities, providing educational facilities, and fostering community engagement. The design underscores themes of freedom, resilience, and adaptability, reflecting the spirit of Kharkiv itself.

The primary feature of the Freedom Square is its dynamic ground plane, designed to facilitate fluid movement and engagement. The layout connects various elements of the space, including a central plaza and gathering areas surrounded by greenery. This arrangement promotes accessibility and increases opportunities for social interaction. The underground component of the project includes a museum dedicated to local history, designed to educate visitors while reinforcing the significance of the area.

Unique Design Approaches

The design of Kharkiv Freedom Square incorporates modular elements and a flexible framework that allows for a variety of uses over time. Key features include tensile membrane structures which, while lightweight, ensure structural integrity and resilience against the elements. These membranes also integrate photovoltaic panels, showcasing a commitment to sustainable energy use.

The landscape design thoughtfully integrates greenery throughout the public space, enhancing the aesthetic quality while supporting biodiversity. The use of concrete and steel allows for a robust structure, while extensive glass facades ensure transparency, inviting natural light and creating visual connections between indoor and outdoor environments.

Functionality is a strong focus of the project, with transportation integration supporting efficient access to the space. The inclusion of two subway stations, alongside pathways designed for pedestrian comfort, enhances usability and connects the square to the broader urban fabric of Kharkiv.

Sustainability and Community Focus

Sustainable architecture is prominent in this project. The integration of passive sunlight techniques and energy-efficient building materials minimizes consumption, aligning with modern ecological standards. The design promotes a central gathering area that not only hosts events but also serves educational purposes, consolidating Kharkiv’s role as a cultural center.

The architectural concepts present in the Freedom Square invite exploration and discovery. The juxtaposition of public and historical spaces fosters engagement, while the design's adaptability allows it to respond effectively to community needs over time. For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of the Kharkiv Freedom Square project, the architectural plans, sections, and designs reveal further insights into the innovative ideas embedded within this architectural undertaking.
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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
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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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