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Trapezoidal Shelter Constructed with Mortise and Tenon Joints Using Recycled Wood Panels

Trapezoidal Shelter Constructed with Mortise and Tenon Joints Using Recycled Wood Panels
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Built using a mortise and tenon joint system and trapezoidal wood panels, this modular housing solution offers adaptable, sustainable living spaces tailored for those affected by the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a mortise and tenon joint system for enhanced structural integrity.
02
Trapezoidal design allows for versatile spatial configurations and efficient use of space.
03
Includes external balcony features for increased livability in temporary housing.
04
Utilizes recycled materials to minimize environmental impact and support sustainability.
05
Designed for rapid assembly, enabling quick deployment in response to housing needs.

## Project Overview

The Kharkiv Module House serves as a temporary housing initiative in response to the humanitarian challenges posed by the war in Ukraine, as well as the subsequent reconstruction efforts. Rooted in local architectural traditions, the project employs modern construction techniques that emphasize speed and adaptability. This design is intended to address urgent housing needs while maintaining a connection to cultural contexts.

## Spatial Configuration and Materiality

The design employs a modular system, where each housing unit consists of panels measuring 60 cm, facilitating ease of transport and assembly, even for individuals with limited construction experience. The trapezoidal shape of the units deviates from traditional rectangular forms, allowing for flexibility in responding to diverse environmental conditions and spatial requirements.

Materials have been carefully selected for their sustainability and availability. Predominantly, wood is used for walls and roofs, providing both insulation and a natural aesthetic. Concrete serves as the foundational element, ensuring structural stability, while steel is utilized for connectors, enhancing robustness. The inclusion of glass in windows maximizes natural light, improving the overall livability of the spaces.

## Construction and Community Integration

The assembly process is designed for efficiency, beginning with foundational placement, followed by the erection of individual modules that ensure structural integrity through integrated panel collaboration. This step-by-step approach supports rapid construction, which is particularly vital in emergency housing scenarios.

The modular system not only allows for scalable configurations tailored to community needs but also promotes social interaction through thoughtful spatial arrangements. While the design encourages communal ties, it also balances the need for individual privacy, showcasing a commitment to community-centric living in temporary housing environments.

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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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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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