Reclaiming the Heart of the City: The Heritage Competition

Launched as part of the Kharkiv Concept Masterplan, the Heritage Competition focused on Freedom Square and the Regional Administration Building, two spaces that embody the city’s past and future. Freedom Square, once a Soviet-era ceremonial space, and the damaged yet iconic Regional Administration Building were reimagined as open, inclusive, and resilient civic landmarks.

Over 80 submissions from around the world were received in response to the challenge. Following a thorough roundtable discussion, the Jury concluded that no single entry fully met the criteria to stand out as a sole winner. Instead, three standout proposals emerged as equally compelling. In recognition of their merit, the Jury awarded three projects jointly, naming them as the official prize winners.

Each brought a unique perspective, blending heritage preservation with contemporary urban life. Their projects collectively redefined how memory and modernity can coexist in public spaces.