EVOLUTIONARY HOUSING FOR POST-WAR RECONSTRUCTION IN
UKRAINE
Part II
location: Ukraine
type: master thesis project, teamwork
programs: Revit / Archicad / ArcGis / Adobe Illustrator / Adobe Photoshop / Adobe Indesign
year: 2023
type: master thesis project, teamwork
programs: Revit / Archicad / ArcGis / Adobe Illustrator / Adobe Photoshop / Adobe Indesign
year: 2023
Building upon our research findings, we have embarked on the design phase of our project. This stage encompasses several critical aspects and their corresponding solutions, aimed at crafting the most comfortable and appropriate planning solutions for every scenario.
For a full understanding of the thesis and detailed information, you can explore it by following the link: https://webthesis.biblio.polito.it/29903/
Self-building Approach
When analyzing the Ukrainian present, it becomes obvious that in the future a large part of housing will be built «from scratch» due to the complete destruction in many front-line cities, caused by military actions that are going on the terriroties. This approach is necessary to restore the infrastructure and create housing for the population. In our thesis, we aim to focus on an alternative method, namely the self-build method, considering it as a sustainable and human-oriented approach to housing construction. Taking into account the socio-cultural features of Ukrainian society, we see in self-construction an opportunity to ensure not only the effective restoration of housing, but also to promote the involvement of citizens in active participation in this process. Because even if we consider the time frame relatively not far from today, namely the years of Ukraine’s independence (since 1991), we can find examples of self-building in different parts of the country.
House Evolution Concept
Initially, we focused on the organization of the plot. In this scheme, a plot measuring 25x40 meters is delineated with optimal areas for premises. We have outlined two potential divisions of the plot, considering future evolutions. The size of the house can vary in width and length depending on the amount of space required, the composition of the family and their preferences. On this schemes, we also show the temporary dwelling which firstle used for temporary living during the construction stage of new house, and after it can be redone to different functional uses.
We endeavored to create our design with careful consideration of diverse needs and preferences. The concept of house evolution allows for natural growth and change, providing a flexible solution that enables residents to adjust their home according to evolving needs and preferences over time. We envisaged potential house evolution across three distinct scales of functionality:
1. The initial design presents a general planning solution with a single construction design encompassing a total area of 60.5 square meters. Despite this uniformity, various function scenarios are accommodated.
2. Developed options allow residents to further evolve their homes by adding additional blocks or volumes to their initial solution, offering greater customization.
3. Considering far-future extensions, the design incorporates even more extensive interventions and extensions to accommodate evolving needs and preferences.
Construction Options
Construction practices in Ukraine vary widely due to regional preferences, available resources, and project needs, falling into two main categories: lightweight and heavyweight construction. Lightweight construction in Ukraine often involves timber-frame technologies and the increasing use of prefabricated wooden structures. On the other hand, heavyweight construction relies on masonry and precast reinforced concrete techniques, providing strength and durability for diverse building applications. Based on our design, we developed construction scheme for each type of the structure, and which can be applicable in our regions.
Wood-frame Construction
We begin with lightweight construction options, starting with a wood-frame construction. This type of construction is particularly well-suited for regions such as Chernihiv and Kharkiv, with an estimated erection time of approximately 2 months. This solution can indeed be suitable for self-building projects, provided individuals have appropriate education or attend workshops, or receive support from professionals to ensure that all construction stages are completed with the appropriate quality.
Prefab Timber Construction
The next lightweight option is prefabricated timber construction, also well-suited for regions like Chernihiv and Kharkiv, with an erection time of approximately 1 month. However, this solution may not be entirely suitable for self-building projects, as the installation of structural elements requires professional expertise and specialized equipment. Nonetheless, individuals can handle exterior finishing, interior work, and landscaping on their own. Compared to wood-frame construction, prefabricated timber construction takes half the time to complete but tends to be more expensive due to factory prefabrication.
Masonry Construction
Continuing with heavyweight construction, we have developed a masonry type of construction suitable for regions like Kharkiv and Mykolaiv, with an estimated erection time of approximately 2.5 months. However, this solution may not be entirely suitable for self-building projects, as erecting the walls and roof in masonry construction demands professional expertise. Nonetheless, individuals can still manage exterior finishing, interior work, and landscaping on their own.
Precast Concrete Construction
The next heavyweight example is precast concrete construction, primarily suited for the Kharkiv region but also applicable in other regions. The erection time is approximately 2 months. However, like other heavyweight solutions, this may not be entirely suitable for self-building projects, as professional installation of structural elements is required using special equipment. Nonetheless, individuals can manage exterior finishing, interior work, and landscaping. Despite these limitations, this solution offers the advantage of rapid construction and mass production, which is particularly significant for post-war reconstruction efforts.
Afrewords
From the very beginning, our goal has been to contribute to the creation of a practical design that can help individuals facing everyday challenges in Ukraine. In the end, we, as authors, wish to express our extraordinary hope that our research and development will not remain only on the pages of this document. We strive to see them in real life, contributing to changes and improvements in the field of housing construction in Ukraine.
