In 2016 the Ukrainian Government undertook to comply with the principles of the Leipzig Charter as guidelines for sustainable urban development. Against this background, the project Integrated Urban Development in Ukraine II builds on the potentials for improving integrated urban development in Ukraine by applying and mainstreaming integrated urban development approaches in the steering processes at both national and local level.
Since 2023, the project has been making another important contribution to adapting the consultation agenda to the establishment of a national urban development policy that aims to harmonise the existing regulatory framework for planning, building and reconstruction with a view to joining the EU; to advising communities on developing and updating the spatial and strategic planning basis, integrated urban development concepts and/or comprehensive recovery programmes (CRP); and the provision of practical measures for learning and capacity development.
Balbek Bureau, a renowned architecture firm from Kyiv, developed a unique system for refugee housing to combat many common issues building on lessons learned from past experience. First and for most, their main priority was to focus on design and aesthetic. Not being satisfied with the crude container like housing barracks being offered in the past, Balbek’s approach is characterized by its ability to fit into its surroundings, by creating buildings, that while being modular and only temporary, can not be distinguished from regular permanent buildings. Their minimalist design incorporates many different living environments for its residents, from couples to larger families, while combining more private spaces with open communal areas for it residents.
For successful implementation, this project faced with many challenges. First, the design would only be viable if the it was modular and large scale production was be possible. Next, to reduce lead times and increase production capacity while also investing into the Ukrainian economy, the main production was designed to be facilitated in Ukraine and outsourcing was supposed to be completely avoided if possible. Lastly, not only did these components have to be built in Ukraine, but they had to use readily available materials and be replicable in virtually any village, with the limited production techniques and equipment available there.
This presented a complex challenge in itself. We had to create modular building components that meet the highest code and energy efficiency requirements, using only simple rudimentary technology. To allow these buildings to follow under the express permitting program, these buildings had to be classified as temporary buildings, and would have to be designed in a way, to allow for easy dismantling at the end of the its life.
Our task was to take the existing design and make it both modular as well as cost effective, while retaining its original form, character and general dimensions. Both local building codes as well as German building codes had to be met, while using only simple building technology for production avoiding complex European manufacturing techniques. Final delivery of system included full working drawing for a total of 5 buildings (2 apartment type, 3 communal type) including structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing as part of the package, ready for tendering in both UA and EU markets.
Ben-Yakov is a Kelowna-based studio focused on modern minimalist design, solutions and strategies. From our inception in 2021, we have delivered exceptional quality and service to our clients.
