DIMITRISINA, O. Post-war housing: reuse to rebuilt Ukraine [online]. Brno: Vysoké učení technické v Brně. Fakulta architektury. 2023.
From the beginning, Olivia showed exceptional dedication, taking a personal approach yet maintaining objectivity and inquisitiveness. The chosen topic is extremely significant for her, her family, community and country, indicating that as a future architect she understands the role of the discipline and her professional responsibility. During the extremely hard time of war, she took a risk to go for a site visit to better understand the context and make the necessary examination of the building The research part included archival searches, sources analysis and consulting with the local experts.Olivia Dimitrisina has proven that she has the knowledge, competence and skills necessary for the work of an architect. She also complements these qualities with talent and sensitivity to environmental and social issues, crucial to the future of the profession. The project she developed responds to the needs of the local community and the city by being a valuable proposal on both an architectural and urban scale. Preceded by many analyses, the proposal has a scientific basis, is developed in an attractive manner and creates architecturally attractive spaces.
| Kritérium | Známka | Body | Slovní hodnocení |
|---|---|---|---|
| Přístup studenta ke zpracování | A | Olivia proposed an adaptation of an existing structure for the IDPs residential building with other side functions. She gathered information on potential locations for her project in Ukraine and analyzed them to select the final one. Unfortunately, due to the complicated war situation and limited access to data, she was forced to change the site in the meantime, from the East, to the West of Ukraine. Even under time pressure, she managed to conduct in-depth analyses, be flexible and adapt to the dynamics. The analytical work and conclusions resulted in the choice of an abandoned sanatorium in Truskavets, a modernist building appealing because of its architectural qualities, location and the context - social, spatial and economic. The sanatorium resort close to the mountains in the Western Ukraine seems a safe shelter for the internally displaced persons what we find very thoughtful. Design The design phase began with an analysis of the existing building, its structure, volume and premises. The student assumed as little intervention in the structure as possible - for financial, environmental reasons and the pace of the project, which is to respond to very pressing needs in the context of the refugee crisis. Providing function and spatial layout, she used the knowledge gained at Inclusive Housing Studio, made relevant calculations and verified the data during repeated consultations with tutors and external experts. She carefully accepted critical comments and sought solutions to the problems. As a result, she managed to propose a very sensible use of the building, offering spaces for a diverse community, allowing both: integration and privacy. The apartments have been designed in appropriate proportions for different groups and family sizes, accommodating the needs of people with disabilities, offering a friendly and attractive living space. The common areas have been designed to offer the most flexible solutions for diverse users. Some of them are commercial, what is economically justified. The public parts got an attractive architectural form and are clearly separate from the residential parts. They are connected by an external public space whose very contemporary, graphic form stems from the previously existing pond which has received a more contemporary and environmentally conscious setting. An additional layer of balconies, the main accent and element added by the student, gives the building a modern feel. Their aesthetics, however, are not at odds with the social-modern architecture of the former sanatorium, but rather a contemporary reinterpretation of it. The layout also allows future modifications. |
The architectural approach that has been chosen for this project is one that is both ecologically and culturally responsible. This means that the architect have taken into consideration not only the impact that the structure will have on its surrounding environment, but also the cultural context in which it will exist. This research-driven approach has also instilled promising skills in the young professionals involved in the project, allowing them to gain valuable experience in the field of sustainable architecture and design. With her critical perspective and sensitivity to context, she is able to provide a positive contribution to reconstruction efforts during and after war (whatever that means in our world today).
| Kritérium | Známka | Body | Slovní hodnocení |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urbanistické řešení | A | Olivia shows proficiency in a diverse range of analytical tools, including reviewing secondary data, conducting SWOT analyses, creating maps, and performing site observations. The research framework is extensive and well-crafted. I think it would be beneficial to strengthen the connection between the research and the design proposal. While the research includes urban planning and policy review, it may be helpful to also look at building refurbishment projects when creating the design proposal. As it was highlighted in the work, Truskavets is a beautiful tourist destination where employment opportunities fluctuate with the seasons and tourism. Incorporating commercial functions into the project is a promising idea that could generate more job opportunities and ultimately improve the economic situation of Truskavets. With this in mind, it would be beneficial to highlight the location advantages on the zoning maps in the urban analysis section. For instance, adding text to the map can help demonstrate an understanding of the chosen location. | |
| Architektonické řešení | C | The student proposal includes visualization of communal areas and exterior but not the visualization of private spaces. It would be beneficial for the project to understand the perspectives on how the interiors can be opened up. A more detailed explanation of the design process and the reason why private spaces have been overlooked would also add value. When providing urban analyses, the location of a place is a critical factor to be considered by the student. For example, a place with a scenic view and natural surroundings is considered an advantage in SWOT analyses due to its aesthetic appeal and environmental value. However, it is important to keep in mind that a design solution and representative materials are also necessary for a comprehensive analysis within an architectural project. With the respect to this, the student supposes to add some panoramic from rooftop, windows view from residential units, communal and commercial. There are some planning decisions that could be improved, such as designing a one-room apartment with an entrance to the only bathroom from the sleeping room (see 2.11, 2.12). Curved walls and sliding doors are irrelevant for social or non-profit housing, and the lack of an elevator is also a concern. Also, social and cultural functions are all on one floor, while the construction frame of the initial building would allow for more mixed solutions, such as combining housing and social functions on one floor. | |
| Provozní řešení | B | I would recommend for student to focus more on the operational solution for design topology. In case of social and affordable housing there re might be a space solution for operation company within the building. This would allow for a more efficient use of space and resources, as well as the potential for cost savings. Additionally, having the operation company on site could lead to better communication and faster response times for any issues that may arise in the building. | |
| Technicko konstrukční řešení | B | I must say that the student has made an excellent choice for refurbishing. The staircases and inner walls are usually remained strong and can be used within new function. While the outer wall, which may have been made of poor quality materials are very likely require replacement. | |
| Formální úroveň | B | The thesis or project contains well-designed graphics in general, and the author presents information in a clear and understandable way. However, the information regarding square meters per apartment could benefit from additional clarification, particularly if a range of apartment typologies is included. This would be especially advantageous due to previous analyses that have placed a strong emphasis on social diversity. There are some minor graph errors, such as a missing legend on zoning maps (showing the location of the building, for instance), as well as poor quality pictures and visualizations on pages 158-159. |
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