Ukraine has embarked on a pioneering effort that no other Eastern or Central European country has attempted in the past three decades: a systematic transformation of school buildings constructed during the Soviet era. For this ambitious task, the Lithuanian-led international architectural initiative Rebuild the Wonderful has been enlisted, in which Hungarian architects from Archikon Architects also participate.
As part of the project framework, plans for the reconfiguration of the five most prevalent school design types had to be developed. Based on these plans, up to 134 war-damaged schools, and eventually hundreds more educational institutions, could be renovated in the country.
Architects with extensive experience in transforming Soviet-era buildings have been brought together to participate. The project involves Lithuanian firm Do Architects, Estonian firm Kavakava Architects, and Archikon Architects from Hungary.
The reform of Ukrainian educational buildings involves rethinking and rebuilding Soviet facilities, which is far more cost-effective than demolishing old buildings and constructing new ones in their place. This approach not only saves money and time, but also avoids confining teaching to outdated and unsuitable spaces for decades to come.
“We thoroughly studied Soviet school architecture in Ukraine and developed plans for the most common school types within a few months. This model allows for the rapid transformation of schools in regions liberated from war, and will be applicable to hundreds of other schools built along the same concept in the future. We are transforming old, dark, single-function spaces to foster an open educational environment,” remarked Csaba Nagy.
The new Ukrainian schools will be safe, inclusive, and innovative spaces that prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. They will be places where students can learn, grow, and thrive.
