Team:
Kristina Buriak,
Kateryna Aivazian,
Artem Vahrin.

Type: Contest
Location: Mykolaiv, Ukraine
Area: 2200 m2
Year: 2016

Revitalizing the Central Square of Mykolaiv

The primary goal of the Square reconstruction project in Mykolaiv was to create a modern, safe, and inclusive public space that addresses the evolving social and recreational needs of the city's residents. This initiative goes beyond traditional urban design by integrating new social behaviors and patterns of leisure into the spatial layout.

Urban Strategy & Spatial Logic

Through a careful analysis of pedestrian flows and existing urban infrastructure, we identified key movement routes that informed the site’s functional zoning. One of the most important axes connects Mykolaiv’s central artery, Soborna Street, to the riverfront—establishing a diagonal pedestrian route that organically shapes the layout. This path, with its soft, bionic curves, is designed to encourage longer, more fluid walking experiences.




The zoning concept is centered on multifunctionality. The planning structure accommodates both daily use and large-scale public events—transforming the square into a vibrant, adaptable environment. The main plaza offers space for rallies, open-air cinemas, concerts, seasonal fairs, and even an ice rink in winter.

Landscape & Topography

The landscape design features low hills (1–1.5 meters high), organically woven into a network of pedestrian and bicycle paths. These softly contoured mounds create shifting visual perspectives and serve multiple purposes. During events, they function as natural amphitheaters; in winter, they become small sledding hills—adding playful, seasonal dynamism to the space.

Site Organization

The project preserves the existing division between Soborna Square and its adjacent green area, while reinterpreting them as a cohesive urban-park system. The aim was to create a “soft reboot” of city life—focusing on natural flow, simplicity, and connectivity with the existing transportation network.

Functional Zones

Public Square zone:

• Landscaped hills for recreation and informal gathering
• Bicycle parking and rental stations
• Surface car parking
• Rest area with seasonal food court

Park zone:

• Rest Areas: Benches of various types for relaxation, socializing, or quiet retreat
• Sports Ground: Includes outdoor fitness equipment and a looped jogging track under tree canopy
• Children’s Playground: Designed for a range of age groups
• Amphitheater: An open-air venue for theater, lectures, and performances
• Sports Area: Basketball court, mini football (streetball), table tennis, and a skatepark

The square also connects seamlessly to Mykolaiv’s broader bicycle infrastructure via dedicated bike lanes, ensuring active mobility throughout the site.