Project Concept: Renovation of a Soviet Kindergarten into a Rehabilitation Center for Military Personnel
Malkovets Anna
Modern Ukrainian society faces challenges that require adaptive solutions in the field of military rehabilitation. As a result of ongoing hostilities, there is an increasing need for specialized spaces that ensure not only physical but also psychological and social recovery for veterans. This project is focused on transforming a typical Soviet-era kindergarten into a contemporary rehabilitation center for military personnel.
The goal of the project is to create an innovative space for the physical, psychological, and social rehabilitation of military personnel, ensuring comfort, accessibility, and aesthetic harmony. The main idea is to move away from the standardized architectural solutions of the Soviet period and rethink the space according to modern design, inclusivity, and ergonomic standards. The project envisions the creation of a multifunctional rehabilitation center that includes medical and therapeutic zones, psychological support areas, spaces for socialization and leisure, sports rehabilitation halls, a café, and a relaxation area for visitors and family members.
A typical Soviet-era kindergarten, characterized by its rigid rectangular forms and lightweight concrete block construction, has undergone a significant transformation. The key principles of redesign include facade reconstruction with modern architectural elements that symbolize openness, hope, and lightness, enlarging window openings to increase natural light, functional zoning of spaces, and barrier-free access through the integration of ramps, elevators, and wide doorways.
The interior design is based on the principles of minimalism, natural elements, and harmony. Special attention is given to the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay, which contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ukrainian ethnic motifs in décor, therapeutic color schemes, ergonomic furniture, and live plants help create a calming and restorative environment. The space includes offices for psychologists and psychotherapists, a gym and yoga room, a physiotherapy block, an art therapy area, a café, and a relaxation zone.
The project integrates modern technologies, including energy-efficient solutions such as solar panels and ventilation systems, soundproofing for the comfort of psychological and rehabilitation zones, and interactive spaces with multimedia panels. The transformation of a Soviet kindergarten into a rehabilitation center represents a symbolic act of repurposing outdated spaces into modern, humane, and user-centered environments. This project is designed to create a high-quality setting that facilitates recovery, social reintegration, and personal growth for military personnel who have dedicated their efforts to defending Ukraine.