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War Rubble and Structural Timber Unite to Create Flexible Housing Solutions in Urban Regeneration

Author:
Cornelia Bosman
War Rubble and Structural Timber Unite to Create Flexible Housing Solutions in Urban Regeneration

Project in-detail

Incorporating repurposed war rubble and structural timber, the design reimagines urban living through flexible housing units that foster community resilience and enhance post-conflict regeneration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates repurposed war rubble into structural elements for trauma-sensitive design.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features flexible housing units that can be easily adapted for various family sizes and needs.
04
Incorporates community gardens to promote social interaction and ecological balance.
05
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and create dynamic interior spaces.
The Viva City architectural project is a transformative urban design initiative located in Kharkiv, Ukraine. This project addresses not only the immediate need for housing in a post-conflict context but also serves a broader purpose by integrating principles of sustainability, community interaction, and resilience. The design features modular structures that allow for adaptability, catering to varying needs of residents in a regenerating urban landscape. This report explores the project's core elements, unique design strategies, and architectural functions.

Modular Design and Flexibility
Viva City employs a modular design approach, which facilitates rapid assembly and customization of living spaces. The architecture focuses on flexible housing units that can be adapted based on the occupants' preferences and requirements. This is particularly relevant in a context where housing needs may change over time due to fluctuating population dynamics or socio-economic factors. The incorporation of flexible layouts ensures that the buildings can accommodate various household types, from single individuals to large families, enhancing the project's overall functionality.

Sustainable Material Use
The architectural design emphasizes sustainability through the selected materials. Utilizing hemp, structural timber, and recycled construction materials showcases a commitment to both ecological responsibility and local resource utilization. These materials are not only durable but also contribute to low carbon footprints associated with construction. The use of polyurethane foam as insulation reflects the project's focus on energy efficiency, which is crucial in creating comfortable and climate-responsive living environments. The integration of “war rubble” into the design serves both a structural and commemorative purpose, reinforcing the narrative of resilience embedded within the urban fabric.

Community-Centric Features
Viva City prioritizes the creation of communal spaces that foster social interactions among residents. Designed to encourage engagement, the public areas include recreation zones, gardens, and gathering spaces. This aspect of the design reflects an understanding of the psychological impact of community relationships in urban settings. By integrating spaces for socialization, the project aims to rebuild social ties that may have been fractured due to conflict.

Furthermore, the architectural strategies emphasize a connection to nature, with landscaped areas incorporated throughout the project. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the overall well-being of the residents by creating natural havens within the urban setting.

As a progressive architectural response to current urban challenges, the Viva City project exemplifies thoughtfulness in design and function. Its modular setup allows for adaptability in the face of change, while its sustainability features demonstrate a contemporary approach to materiality and ecological responsibility. The focus on community-oriented spaces sets it apart from conventional housing developments, promoting an environment conducive to social healing and cohesion.

For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that inform this project, the provided presentation offers detailed insights into its multifaceted components.
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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
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