TOLOKA - Strawbuild Ukraine
Basic information
Project Title
TOLOKA - Strawbuild Ukraine
Category
Prioritising the places and people that need it the most
Project Description
The "Toloka - Strawbuild Ukraine" project supports the reconstruction of houses in rural Ukraine that were destroyed in the war. We use straw as a local and sustainable resource, as well as an easy-to-learn construction method, to enable local people to participate in the reconstruction process.
Geographical Scope
National
Project Region
Ukraine
Urban or rural issues
Mainly rural
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
The full-scale invasion has fundamentally changed the lives of people in Ukraine.
Many have lost their homes as a result of the Russian war of aggression. In particular, private homes in rural areas have been destroyed.
This project looks ahead to times of reconstruction and is intended to provide an
approach that enables local people to participate in reconstruction using regional resources.
Conventional reconstruction would entail many problems and challenges that would put environmental concerns on the back burner. Many conventional building materials are also hardly available or affordable.
Ukraine is one of the largest grain producers in the world. The straw, generated during production, can be used as an ecological and cost-effective material for building houses. With straw as a building material people have access to a regional and available resource that is easy to learn how to build and handle.
At the same time, the new building should fit into its surroundings and leave room for individual development. By analysing existing forms of housing, contemporary needs are harmonized with rural building culture. In Ukraine, there is the custom of "Toloka". Here villagers support each other without self-interest. Participation in reconstruction strengthens the community and identification with the homeland. The design is intended to show the affected Ukrainians a way to participate in the reconstruction themselves and to demonstrate the potential of straw as a building material.
Finally, it is in the interest of all of us to create affordable and environmentally friendly living space. The future presents us with major challenges that require a rethink, particularly in the construction industry. Therefore, as serious and sad as the situation in Ukraine may be, we should try to see the reconstruction of the country as an opportunity.
Many have lost their homes as a result of the Russian war of aggression. In particular, private homes in rural areas have been destroyed.
This project looks ahead to times of reconstruction and is intended to provide an
approach that enables local people to participate in reconstruction using regional resources.
Conventional reconstruction would entail many problems and challenges that would put environmental concerns on the back burner. Many conventional building materials are also hardly available or affordable.
Ukraine is one of the largest grain producers in the world. The straw, generated during production, can be used as an ecological and cost-effective material for building houses. With straw as a building material people have access to a regional and available resource that is easy to learn how to build and handle.
At the same time, the new building should fit into its surroundings and leave room for individual development. By analysing existing forms of housing, contemporary needs are harmonized with rural building culture. In Ukraine, there is the custom of "Toloka". Here villagers support each other without self-interest. Participation in reconstruction strengthens the community and identification with the homeland. The design is intended to show the affected Ukrainians a way to participate in the reconstruction themselves and to demonstrate the potential of straw as a building material.
Finally, it is in the interest of all of us to create affordable and environmentally friendly living space. The future presents us with major challenges that require a rethink, particularly in the construction industry. Therefore, as serious and sad as the situation in Ukraine may be, we should try to see the reconstruction of the country as an opportunity.
Key objectives for sustainability
The project follows various principles of sustainability:
1. Ecological: Straw is a locally available building material that is a by-product of food production. Reconstruction using conventional construction methods would result in massive emissions of greenhouse gases. Straw, on the other hand, has a positive ecological balance. Thanks to its good insulating properties, the house also consumes fewer resources during operation and is healthy to live in thanks to the use of natural materials. Straw is easily compostable at the end of its useful life. Where possible, reused materials should also be used. Donated windows have already been incorporated into a design for a specific building. Either the new house is placed on a leftover floor slab, or demolition materials are used as Roman concrete for the construction of new foundations. The reuse of bricks inside the building provides thermal storage mass.
2. Social: Participation in the reconstruction has a meaningful effect, strengthens the community and creates a new identification with the home and the building. The house leaves plenty of scope for individuality and is an expression of personality and individuality. Reference is made to the local building culture. The flexible room layout can be adapted to the residents and their needs.
3. Economic: The easy-to-learn construction method enables a broad section of society to participate in the reconstruction. The possibility of self-contribution and the low material price of straw opens potential savings in construction. Operating costs are also low thanks to the good insulation standard and the fact that the building technology is as self-sufficient as possible.
Cereals are grown as food in almost all European countries. The resulting straw opens enormous potential for the much-needed shift in construction towards more sustainability.
1. Ecological: Straw is a locally available building material that is a by-product of food production. Reconstruction using conventional construction methods would result in massive emissions of greenhouse gases. Straw, on the other hand, has a positive ecological balance. Thanks to its good insulating properties, the house also consumes fewer resources during operation and is healthy to live in thanks to the use of natural materials. Straw is easily compostable at the end of its useful life. Where possible, reused materials should also be used. Donated windows have already been incorporated into a design for a specific building. Either the new house is placed on a leftover floor slab, or demolition materials are used as Roman concrete for the construction of new foundations. The reuse of bricks inside the building provides thermal storage mass.
2. Social: Participation in the reconstruction has a meaningful effect, strengthens the community and creates a new identification with the home and the building. The house leaves plenty of scope for individuality and is an expression of personality and individuality. Reference is made to the local building culture. The flexible room layout can be adapted to the residents and their needs.
3. Economic: The easy-to-learn construction method enables a broad section of society to participate in the reconstruction. The possibility of self-contribution and the low material price of straw opens potential savings in construction. Operating costs are also low thanks to the good insulation standard and the fact that the building technology is as self-sufficient as possible.
Cereals are grown as food in almost all European countries. The resulting straw opens enormous potential for the much-needed shift in construction towards more sustainability.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
In order to get a feel for the rural building culture in Ukraine, historical residential buildings from the beginning of the 20th century were analyzed. Characteristic elements, such as the use of straw, clay and wood as building materials or the number of storeys and roof shape were included. Life mainly took place in the "mala khata" room, which contained the stove as a central element. The historical type offered its inhabitants little privacy and still lacked modern amenities such as a bathroom.
In this modern reinterpretation, the center of the building forms a sanitary and technical core. All water pipes run through here. This not only saves costs due to low material consumption, but also minimizes the risk of water damage. Living rooms and bedrooms are arranged around this, which can be individually separated by sliding doors. In the airy living and dining room, there is a basic stove that heats the building.
The interior is characterized by a functional aesthetic that leaves room for individuality. The construction becomes a design element. The clay plaster on the exterior walls forms a warm contrast to the geometric division of the space thanks to the organic curvature of the straw bales. The plywood cladding of the interior walls can also be used to create custom-fit and inexpensive built-in furniture. Polycarbonate multi-skin sheets are used for a light field in the roof above the kitchen and in the gable.
The veranda outside is a very common feature of rural buildings in Ukraine. It is a communication space and a threshold between the public exterior and private interior. The wide roof overhang also protects the structure from damage caused by moisture.
The aim of this design is to harmonize features of rural building culture with contemporary needs while leaving room for individuality.
In this modern reinterpretation, the center of the building forms a sanitary and technical core. All water pipes run through here. This not only saves costs due to low material consumption, but also minimizes the risk of water damage. Living rooms and bedrooms are arranged around this, which can be individually separated by sliding doors. In the airy living and dining room, there is a basic stove that heats the building.
The interior is characterized by a functional aesthetic that leaves room for individuality. The construction becomes a design element. The clay plaster on the exterior walls forms a warm contrast to the geometric division of the space thanks to the organic curvature of the straw bales. The plywood cladding of the interior walls can also be used to create custom-fit and inexpensive built-in furniture. Polycarbonate multi-skin sheets are used for a light field in the roof above the kitchen and in the gable.
The veranda outside is a very common feature of rural buildings in Ukraine. It is a communication space and a threshold between the public exterior and private interior. The wide roof overhang also protects the structure from damage caused by moisture.
The aim of this design is to harmonize features of rural building culture with contemporary needs while leaving room for individuality.
Key objectives for inclusion
Our project embodies inclusion by providing an open-source guide, enabling local communities to rebuild homes using straw, a material that is available and affordable in Ukraine. This approach aligns with the traditional "Toloka" spirit of collaborative assistance, fostering community and belonging. The accessibility of our design is enhanced by requiring minimal prior knowledge and basic tools, making reconstruction feasible for all. By accommodating diverse needs and being adaptable to rural Ukrainian building culture, our project serves as a model for societal rebuilding, focused on community bonds and empowering locals to shape their environment with local, cost-effective resources.
How Citizens benefit
The project places significant emphasis on citizen involvement, particularly drawing on the traditional Ukrainian "Toloka" practice. This communal approach ensures that the beneficiaries, primarily the residents, are deeply involved in the reconstruction process. By using straw, a resource generated from Ukraine's grain production, we involve local farmers, thereby integrating agricultural and construction sectors. This involvement has positively impacted the project by ensuring that the reconstruction aligns with local needs and cultural practices. It has also fostered a sense of ownership and pride among the community, thereby strengthening societal bonds during these challenging times.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
Our project stands out in its innovative use of straw, a sustainable and locally available material, diverging from conventional construction materials. We reimagine old principles for modern needs, offering a sustainable, culturally sensitive, and community-driven solution for post-crisis reconstruction. The integration of the "Toloka" concept, where communities collectively participate in building, is a unique approach, fostering social cohesion and empowerment. Additionally, our project's adaptability to various cultural contexts in Europe and its contribution to environmental and climate goals set it apart from typical reconstruction efforts. This approach not only addresses the immediate need for housing but also pioneers a sustainable and community-driven model for post-crisis reconstruction.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
Our concept combines various disciplines and fields of knowledge. Construction methods and building physics are central to the construction of sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings. Building history helps us to understand and integrate local architectural traditions. Agricultural knowledge, especially about the use and availability of straw as a building material, is also essential. Statistics on the effects of war, the housing situation or climatic conditions enable a well-founded planning and evaluation of the project. The interaction of these disciplines brings great added value as it ensures that the project is not only environmentally sustainable, but also culturally adapted and community oriented. This interdisciplinary exchange is crucial for the creation of a holistic and effective reconstruction plan.
Methodology used
The driving force behind our project was the desire to assist in reconstruction efforts in Ukraine, drawing upon sustainable building methods.
This concept originated as a bachelor's thesis at the Technical University of OWL, guided by Prof. Stephanie Stratmann and Sascha Walter, and received recognition from the BDA (Bund Deutscher Architekten OWL).
Thesis Methodology:
1. Preliminary Phase: Analysis - statistics, literature and projects were evaluated. Content:
UKRAINE
- War in Ukraine, geographical and statistical classification
- Housing in Ukraine, statistics on the situation before the war
- Architecture in Ukraine and its history
STRAW CONSTRUCTION
- Straw as a building material
- Load-bearing straw bale construction
- Practical examples
- Potential of straw in Ukraine
2. Design Phase: Based on this analysis, I developed a design for a load-bearing straw house, incorporating social, ecological, and economic considerations, with a particular emphasis on rural Ukrainian building culture.
Throughout the process, personal contacts and conversations with affected Ukrainians, especially my colleague Angelika Kirovska from Kyiv, were pivotal in shaping understanding and approach. My workplace embraced this vision, incorporating it into a collaborative aid project.
This collaboration has already led to further undertakings to support the reconstruction:
-Networking with other stakeholders and experts from Ukraine, as well as organizations
-Design for the reconstruction of a concrete building in the Kharkiv region
-Organizing an online workshop for Ukrainians on building with straw, hosted by Austrian straw building expert Virko Kade
-Cooperation with the local association "Roundtable 114 Paderborn e.V." to collect donations
-Collection and documentation of material donations such as used windows
-Presentation of the project at various conferences and events
Further campaigns and the implementation of a concrete pilot project are planned.
This concept originated as a bachelor's thesis at the Technical University of OWL, guided by Prof. Stephanie Stratmann and Sascha Walter, and received recognition from the BDA (Bund Deutscher Architekten OWL).
Thesis Methodology:
1. Preliminary Phase: Analysis - statistics, literature and projects were evaluated. Content:
UKRAINE
- War in Ukraine, geographical and statistical classification
- Housing in Ukraine, statistics on the situation before the war
- Architecture in Ukraine and its history
STRAW CONSTRUCTION
- Straw as a building material
- Load-bearing straw bale construction
- Practical examples
- Potential of straw in Ukraine
2. Design Phase: Based on this analysis, I developed a design for a load-bearing straw house, incorporating social, ecological, and economic considerations, with a particular emphasis on rural Ukrainian building culture.
Throughout the process, personal contacts and conversations with affected Ukrainians, especially my colleague Angelika Kirovska from Kyiv, were pivotal in shaping understanding and approach. My workplace embraced this vision, incorporating it into a collaborative aid project.
This collaboration has already led to further undertakings to support the reconstruction:
-Networking with other stakeholders and experts from Ukraine, as well as organizations
-Design for the reconstruction of a concrete building in the Kharkiv region
-Organizing an online workshop for Ukrainians on building with straw, hosted by Austrian straw building expert Virko Kade
-Cooperation with the local association "Roundtable 114 Paderborn e.V." to collect donations
-Collection and documentation of material donations such as used windows
-Presentation of the project at various conferences and events
Further campaigns and the implementation of a concrete pilot project are planned.
How stakeholders are engaged
The project plans to engage stakeholders at local, regional, national, and European levels. The local communities and people are the most important group implementing the project together. They are the heart of the project and contribute significantly to its success.
The main building material is produced regionally from farmers. Regional authorities are also involved for guidance and support. This level is fundamental for the supply of materials and legal approvals.
National experts involved provide supportive roles, particularly with regard to country-specific conditions and communication. Damage is documented at state level so that assistance can be provided in a targeted manner. In turn, sustainable construction helps the state to achieve climate protection goals.
At the European level, our adaptable construction methods and the universal availability of straw present a model for eco-friendly building, fostering learning and solutions for sustainable construction. This multi-level collaboration is vital for the project's success and ensuring broad support.
The main building material is produced regionally from farmers. Regional authorities are also involved for guidance and support. This level is fundamental for the supply of materials and legal approvals.
National experts involved provide supportive roles, particularly with regard to country-specific conditions and communication. Damage is documented at state level so that assistance can be provided in a targeted manner. In turn, sustainable construction helps the state to achieve climate protection goals.
At the European level, our adaptable construction methods and the universal availability of straw present a model for eco-friendly building, fostering learning and solutions for sustainable construction. This multi-level collaboration is vital for the project's success and ensuring broad support.
Global challenges
The concept addresses global challenges like sustainable development, climate change, and post-conflict reconstruction through local solutions. By utilizing straw, a widely available and renewable resource, we contribute to sustainable housing and reduced environmental impact. The community-based approach tackles social issues by fostering solidarity and resilience in post-conflict areas. This local solution, adaptable to various contexts, offers a blueprint for addressing these global challenges in a sustainable, culturally sensitive, and community-focused manner.
Learning transferred to other parties
The project's methodology and technology offer significant potential for replication and adaptation in various contexts. The use of straw as a sustainable building material is universally applicable, particularly in agricultural regions. Our approach to community involvement, drawing on the "Toloka" tradition, can inspire similar communal construction efforts elsewhere. Additionally, the process of integrating local cultural and architectural practices into modern sustainable building can be adapted to various regions, fostering local engagement and ensuring ecological and cultural relevance. These aspects make our project a model for sustainable, community-driven reconstruction in diverse settings.
Keywords
Reconstruction
Sustainability
Community
Tradition
Straw
