Architecture Competition Milan Affordable Housing Challenge Honorable mention winner – Kharkiv State Academy of Design and Arts

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to one of our Honorable mention winners for our "Milan Affordable Housing Challenge" competition – Olha Holubova, Oleksandr Kolesnikov and Serhiy Ilchenko from Ukraine!

Olha Holubova from Ukraine

My academic background includes university studies, professional courses on mastering architectural programs, and participation in various architectural competitions. I recently attained the bachelor degree in architecture and currently work as an interior designer’s assistant at Lyla Studio design bureau. https://instagram.com/lyla.interiors?igshid=OGIzYTJhMTRmYQ==

Throughout the project, I received valuable guidance and feedback from my university teachers who acted as consultants.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been involved?

I am collaborating with the Canadian Bureau of VZMH on a project focused on restoring the northern saltivka area in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Additionally, I participated in a competition for the reconstruction of Saltivka, where my work and research on the district of Kharkiv were included. You can find the video work and see me listed as one of the authors in the competition link provided. https://www.rebuilduahackathon.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-3Y7Puf_CA

Given the ongoing war in Ukraine, most of my current efforts are directed towards reconstruction and assisting the Ukrainian population.

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

The significance of architecture and its impact on people's lives has become increasingly evident in Ukraine in recent years. As my creative journey began amidst the pandemic and war, I strongly believe in the importance of rebuilding cities. For me, architecture represents more than just structures; it embodies spaces for people, serves as a means of self-expression, and enhances the quality of life for individuals.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I participate in architectural competitions for several reasons. Firstly, they provide valuable experiences that expand my ideas and allow me to explore new concepts. Secondly, they serve as a platform for young architects like myself to discover our professional identities and develop innovative projects. Lastly, participating in competitions offers the opportunity to witness the diverse range of ideas presented by participants from around the world.

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

I highly encourage everyone to give architectural competitions a try, whether individually or as part of a team. While the competition pace may not suit everyone, it is undoubtedly a rewarding and significant experience for both newcomers and seasoned professionals alike.

Supervisors’ notes:

Oleksandr Kolesnikov - “I am interested in this project hypothesis. It suggests that we can design through urban voids, transforming the social, spatial, and functional deficiencies of these voids into opportunities for new residential structures.”

Serhiy Ilchenko - “I found the research component of the project particularly intriguing, specifically the utilization of local patterns for shared spaces within the residential structure.”