Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Vertical Gardens and Thermal Insulation in Modular Residential Building Design

Authors:
Daria Zhdanova, Olena Rodyvylova
Vertical Gardens and Thermal Insulation in Modular Residential Building Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and advanced thermal insulation, the design transforms modular residential living in Kharkiv, enhancing sustainability while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for future adaptability to community needs.
02
Integrated vertical gardens enhance biodiversity and air quality.
03
Underground parking minimizes surface disruption and maximizes green areas.
04
Natural stone finishes and thermal insulation promote energy efficiency.
05
Expansive communal spaces foster social interaction among residents.
The architectural project in Kharkiv, Ukraine, focuses on the renovation and reconstruction of residential buildings in the Northern Saltivka district. This area has faced considerable challenges, including serious destruction due to conflict. The design aims to restore this community's living environment through a modernized approach that integrates functionality with sustainable practices, creating a cohesive urban space.

Modernized Residential Design
The project comprises a series of modular residential buildings, varying in height from nine to sixteen stories. This scale was selected to complement the existing urban fabric while providing a sufficient number of residential units. The project emphasizes natural light and ventilation through expansive glazing and strategically placed windows. Each building features articulated facades with various materials, including reinforced concrete, glass, and natural stone, which contribute to a visually appealing and durable structure.

The design introduces extensive greenery across the vertical surfaces of the buildings. Integrated planters enhance the aesthetic quality while promoting biodiversity and improving air quality. This focus on green architecture aligns with contemporary practices aimed at reducing the urban heat island effect and enhancing residents' well-being.

Innovative Architectural Approaches
One notable feature of this project is the incorporation of underground parking solutions. This layout minimizes the footprint of vehicle storage on the surface, allowing for more green spaces and communal areas, thereby encouraging pedestrian movement and social interaction among residents. The communal spaces include parks, playgrounds, and gathering areas designed to foster a sense of community, enhancing the quality of life in the district.

The modular design allows flexibility, enabling units to adapt to changing community needs over time. This adaptability is a key element in ensuring that the buildings remain relevant and functional for future residents.

Integration of Natural Elements
This project incorporates several sustainable practices that set it apart from traditional residential designs. The extensive green infrastructure within the project not only serves aesthetic purposes but also functions ecologically. Living walls, vertical gardens, and green roofs are intended to provide natural insulation and enhance stormwater management, contributing to the overall sustainability of the development.

The careful selection of materials emphasizes energy efficiency, utilizing thermal insulation strategies that comply with modern standards. This choice reflects a commitment to reducing energy consumption and environmental impact throughout the lifecycle of the buildings.

Overall, the architectural project in Northern Saltivka addresses the urgent need for modern residential solutions while promoting sustainability and community cohesion.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural plans and designs, detailed architectural sections and additional insights are available for review. Engaging with these elements will provide a deeper understanding of the design concepts and innovations that characterize this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy