Norman Foster Foundation shares Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival competition results

The results from the Norman Foster Foundation-led competition to rebuild Freedom Square in Kharkiv, Ukraine, have been announced following the selection of winners by a jury headlined by Deborah Berke, Moshe Safdie, and Beatriz Colomina.

Featuring a cash prize pool of more than $10,000 USD (around $3,000 for each Prize Winner and $1,000 for the Student Award winner), the competition "encouraged designs that respected the city’s heritage while aligning with its aspirations for renewal and progress."

The Foundation adds that it "represents a pivotal step in shaping Kharkiv’s future, reflecting the city’s enduring resilience and commitment to creating a space that serves both its historical identity and its evolving needs." 

The competition also relates to the Foundation’s previous Kharkiv Housing Challenge. The Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival competition induced a total of 84 total submissions, with 21 coming from within Ukraine. Each reimagines the square — described as one of the world’s largest — as a newly inclusive and accessible space, with the restoration of the Kharkiv Regional State Administration Building providing another key project aspect as per the brief.

Instead of naming an outright winner, the jury selected the three prize winners as equal contributors. They said that their "strengths and areas for improvement reflect the complexity of the design challenge and emphasize the richness of this endeavor," before adding finally, "these projects collectively serve as stepping stones toward a more balanced, inclusive, and inspiring outcome."

Competition joint-winners

'Memory' by Jansen Che (Australia)

Jury feedback summary: "This project centers on a below-ground memorial, providing a contemplative space that honors Kharkiv’s resilience and history. The oculus design offers a symbolic connection between the memorial and the surrounding square, emphasizing themes of reflection, transparency, and accessibility. The design preserves the square’s openness, maintaining its monumental scale while incorporating modern elements that acknowledge the city’s recent challenges. In addition, the project proposes the development of the underground part of the Regional State Administration Building as a public space and as a new group entrance and transit pedestrian corridor, which successfully combines the space of the building and the square. The inner courtyard of the building is designed as a functional atrium, which is a public space."

Read Buildner's interview with Jansen Che here.

'In-time' by Daniel Mintz (Israel)

Jury feedback summary: "This submission highlights a cohesive and understated approach to the redesign of Freedom Square, focusing on preserving its monumental scale while introducing subtle modern updates. The proposal’s use of a translucent facade for the Kharkiv Regional State Administration Building is particularly noteworthy, softening the building and symbolizing transparency and accessibility. This intervention reflects a thoughtful reinterpretation of the building’s historical significance while signaling a forward-looking vision for Kharkiv. The project authors also focused on transforming the internal space of the Regional State Administration Building and creating new inclusive public spaces."

Read Buildner's interview with Daniel Mintz here.

'Norman Foster Foundation Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival - Garden state' by
Nischal Ba (India)

Jury feedback summary: "This design introduces a seasonal landscape framework that respects Freedom Square’s monumental scale while integrating adaptable public amenities. Biodiverse green zones, shaded pathways, and multifunctional spaces create opportunities for year-round use. The proposal thoughtfully considers ecological sustainability and offers a more human-centered approach to the square’s design, emphasizing relaxation and connection to nature."

Read Buildner's interview with Nischal Ba here.

Student Award

'Kharkiv Freedom Square Revival-History & future' by Qiqi Wu (United Kingdom)

Jury feedback summary: "This project demonstrates impressive creativity and a deep sensitivity to the site’s needs. The design proposes lush green landscapes surrounding the square, interspersed with subtle interventions that enhance usability while maintaining the square’s grandeur. The Kharkiv Regional State Administration Building’s restored facade integrates well with the surrounding public space, creating a harmonious balance between history and future aspirations."

Read Buildner's interview with Qiai Wu here.