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Thermal Buffer Housing Enhanced With Prefabricated Concrete Panels for Community Living

Authors:
Alejandro Martin Ramo, Miriam Valdivieso Fraile
Thermal Buffer Housing Enhanced With Prefabricated Concrete Panels for Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing prefabricated concrete panels and a thermal buffer design, the project revitalizes concrete panel housing in Kharkiv, enhancing community living through improved energy efficiency and adaptable space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular expansion design that allows for flexible living arrangements.
02
Incorporates thermal buffer roofs to enhance energy efficiency in cold climates.
03
Enhances existing structures with prefabricated concrete panels for quick installation.
04
Focuses on community engagement through thoughtfully arranged public spaces.
05
Integrates interstitial areas for multifunctional use beneath residential units.

The architectural project in Kharkiv, Ukraine, focuses on upgrading existing concrete panel housing in the Saltivka neighborhood. This initiative aims to address the functional and aesthetic shortcomings of these aging residential structures. By utilizing a modular design approach, the project enhances living conditions while preserving the integrity of the existing buildings. The design promotes energy efficiency, communal living, and sustainability, making it a relevant solution for contemporary housing needs.

Innovative Modular Design

A distinguishing feature of the project is the implementation of the "Box-Type Module." This design enables flexibility in living arrangements, allowing for both vertical and horizontal expansions of existing units without the need for total demolition. The modular system optimizes space while maintaining structural stability, thereby responding to the varying needs of different residents. This approach signifies a shift toward adaptive reuse in architecture, striving to meet present-day requirements while minimizing waste and preserving historical context.

The enhancements also include an upgraded façade that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. The use of prefabricated concrete panels not only reinforces the buildings’ structural capabilities but also introduces insulation that improves energy performance. Further, the thermal buffer concept applied to roofs enhances comfort and reduces heating costs during colder months. The design consciously encourages social interaction through organized public spaces, fostering community connections as residents transition between private and communal areas.

Community-Centric Architectural Solutions

The reconfiguration of public spaces within the housing complex plays a vital role in improving livability. The layout incorporates designated play and green areas, promoting outdoor activities and a sense of unity among residents. Accessibility is prioritized through strategically positioned entry points, facilitating movement throughout the complex and encouraging neighborhood engagement.

This project also reflects a thorough understanding of local climatic conditions, as additional insulation and energy-efficient materials reduce the ecological footprint. By focusing on functionality and environmental sustainability, the design aligns with current architectural trends that emphasize responsible development.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements, explore the project presentation to understand the full scope of this innovative endeavor.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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