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Thermal Buffer Housing Enhanced with Prefabricated Concrete Panels for Community Living

Thermal Buffer Housing Enhanced with Prefabricated Concrete Panels for Community Living
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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.

### Overview

Situated in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, the initiative addresses the upgrading of concrete panel housing in the Saltivka neighborhood, where such structures are prevalent. The objective is to revitalize these aging buildings to improve livability, efficiency, and community interaction. The design framework focuses on enhancing the existing infrastructure while promoting a better quality of life for residents.

### Modular Design System

Central to the architectural approach is the "Box-Type Module," which facilitates the creation of flexible living spaces through a modular system. This innovative design enables both vertical and horizontal expansions of the existing structures, thus accommodating changing spatial requirements without necessitating full-scale demolitions. The integration of prefabricated concrete panels not only maintains structural integrity but also incorporates advanced insulation solutions to enhance energy efficiency. Key structural innovations permit the use of multi-functional spaces beneath the buildings, accessible from public areas, to support communal activities while ensuring safety.

### Community-Centric Enhancements

The project proposes a series of thoughtful modifications to existing façades and communal spaces. The redesign of the rooftops acts as thermal buffers while providing opportunities for communal engagement. The façades blend aesthetic improvements with thermal performance, allowing for personalization with color and modular patterns. Public spaces have been strategically arranged to foster interaction among residents, with designated play and green areas laid out on a grid to promote active lifestyles. Enhanced entry points streamline movement, ensuring smooth transitions between private living units and communal areas, thereby elevating accessibility and encouraging a sense of community.

This initiative reflects a commitment to designing with community needs in mind, creating a dynamic environment that adapts alongside the evolving demographics of the area. The architectural language honors Kharkiv's historical context while introducing modern elements, fostering a visual dialogue between the old and the new.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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