Northern Saltivka is a residential area in Kharkiv that was the first to suffer from the Russian Federation’s insidious attack. We present our vision for the future of Northern Saltivka, specifically for Natalia Uzhviy Street.
Project Name: The Project For The Reconstruction Of Northern Saltivka “The Blanket”
Studio Name: Vizdome Space
Location: Ukraine
Status: Concept
The proposal is to cover buildings like a blanket or second skin. This involves installing a facade system with mesh-filled panels. Since each balcony is glazed differently, the second skin concept will give the buildings a more unified appearance. The mesh facade will also serve as sun protection. Swing shutters will be placed in front of windows and balconies, offering a low-cost and simple solution to adjust shading, as well as adding plasticity to the facade, as residents will open and close them at various angles.
Flower beds with wild grapes will be planted at the ends of buildings. Wild grapes grow quickly, up to the seventh floor or higher, produce oxygen, are low-maintenance, and reduce the air temperature in the vicinity—an essential feature during summer when cities tend to overheat.
Large signs with street names and house numbers will be installed on the end facades, making it easier to navigate the neighborhood.
Northern Saltivka was the most affected district in Kharkiv by Russian shelling. Damaged panels will be crushed and repurposed as aggregates for concrete flower beds and bench bases. The project ensures the preservation of all existing trees.
Car access will remain available for emergency services, taxis, individuals with children, and those with disabilities. However, parking will be located outside the residential area.
On the example of building 82 on Natalia Uzhviy Street, we showcase modernization solutions aimed at improving the comfort and safety of living in panel houses. A modular system has also been developed to allow for the construction of new houses or the restoration of damaged ones.
For the undamaged part of building 82, the following actions are planned: insulation of the facades and basements with mineral wool, grid plastering of the facade, replacement of windows with energy-efficient models, and installation of glass entrance doors. A ramp for people with disabilities will be constructed, and flower beds with perennial plants will decorate the entrances.
For the destroyed part of building 82, concrete modules with insulated sandwich panels will be used on the facade side. The module’s dimensions are 3.75 x 6.38 meters, and the design allows residents to customize the apartment layout according to their needs. A shelter will be located at the basement level, with options for both peacetime and wartime.
As an additional energy source, heat pumps will be installed for both residential and public buildings.
The public space will be divided into several zones: building entrance, car access, resting pavilions, toilet module, a playground, a fireplace area, and a vegetable garden. Additionally, underground trash containers for different waste types will be provided.
Agriculture is a key part of Ukrainian culture, so greenhouses and vegetable garden zones will offer residents the opportunity to grow plants. These spaces will also foster social connections. The walls and roofs of the greenhouses will be made of ETFE film.
Cat houses will be placed near the greenhouses, as many people have favorite street cats that provide a sense of community.
Bomb shelters will be located at public transport stops, in the administrative building, and at the bus terminal. At public transport stops, the shelters will be made of high-strength concrete. Access to these shelters will be provided from both the front and back of the bus stops. The shelters in the bus terminal and administrative building will be located 1200mm below the ground level and will be equipped with ADA ramps. Entrances will be available from both the street and from inside the buildings.
The glass in public areas will be special triplex glass, which shatters into small crumbs rather than sharp shards.
The project also plans to preserve small shops and dental offices on the ground floors of buildings as an essential part of the commercial space.
Murals explaining the street names and a brief historical note will be displayed at public transport stops.
The ‘Natalka’ market is an important shopping and service hub in the neighborhood. It will be divided into three areas: a market square, seasonal commerce zone, and a shops zone. A café and public area will ensure the market remains open 24/7.
The bus terminal, public transport stops, administrative building, and shops will have green roofs, allowing upper-floor residents to enjoy the greenery.
The administrative building, like the bus terminal, will have a similar form but will be distinguished by a mesh panel on top, symbolizing the hybrid nature of the building as a cross between a fully public structure (the bus station) and a residential one.
We believe in a bright future for Northern Saltivka, where sustainability, community, and innovation create a thriving neighborhood.
