Architecture studio Office for Future has unveiled bold plans to convert a former school in Stavyshche into housing for families affected by the conflict in Ukraine. This endeavor, often referred to as the housing project, is located approximately 140 kilometers south of Kyiv. It will offer temporary refuge for 42 families displaced by the ongoing war. The design features include a central courtyard, encouraging community interaction and support.
The renovation, supported by the charity Housing for IDP, will incorporate 42 diverse apartments. Options include one, two, and three-bedroom units, as well as several accessible apartments, to cater to various family needs. Shared spaces designed to foster social connections are a crucial element of this project, ensuring residents can integrate both with each other and with the local community. The initiative emphasizes community cohesion and sustainable housing solutions.
Building a New Community with Stavyshche School Housing
Paolo Russo, founder of Office for Future, emphasized the dual aims of the project: “The goal was to provide quality private living spaces while creating communal areas where both new residents and the existing community could interact.” By revamping this historic school into a housing development, Russo suggests the architecture becomes a vehicle for social healing, aiding the regeneration of a community affected by conflict.
A vibrant courtyard, adorned with greenery and interspersed with walking paths, will form the heart of the Stavyshche development. This communal area is envisioned as a hub for cultural activities and gatherings, enhancing the sense of belonging among residents. Additionally, the project will feature a timber roof outfitted with photovoltaic panels, reflecting a commitment to sustainable housing.
For ideas on using timber materials in construction, explore Plana Architecture’s adaptable timber home design, offering simplicity and flexibility.
Restoring a Community Landmark
The strategy of adapting an existing building that holds sentimental value for the Stavyshche community aims to ease the transition for residents who have endured the trauma of displacement. Russo elaborates, “We worked on a building already familiar to citizens—a former school intrinsic to their memories. Our intention is to nurture a new community that can seamlessly integrate with Stavyshche’s wider society.” The housing project is central to this vision.
This project emerges amidst the backdrop of significant destruction wrought by Russian strikes, affecting landmarks such as the UNESCO-listed Dormition Cathedral. Yet, as pointed out by Dezeen’s Jennifer Hahn, the country has unexpectedly witnessed the rise of innovative interiors during these turbulent years. The images provided here are by Office for Future, capturing the essence of this transformative architectural endeavor.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the transformation plan for the school in Stavyshche?
The transformation plan involves converting the former school in Stavyshche into housing for 42 displaced Ukrainian families affected by the conflict. This includes temporary living arrangements with various apartment options and communal areas for community interaction.
Who is supporting the Stavyshche housing renovation?
The renovation is supported by the charity Housing for IDP, which is collaborating with Architecture studio Office for Future to modify the building into a sustainable housing solution.
How will the new housing support communal living?
The new housing will include a central courtyard for community interaction and shared spaces to foster social connections among residents, integrating displaced families with the local community.