Transforming Kontraktova Square in Podil, Kyiv into a dynamic, vibrant temporary space is more than just an urban redesign—it's an opportunity to create the World’s Largest Pop-up Urban Space. Nestled in the heart of the historical Podil neighbourhood, this iconic square is one of only four public squares in Kyiv, making it a prime location for innovation and community engagement.

Despite a winning architectural competition in 2017, the plans for this space were never realised. However, the area was made car-free in anticipation, paving the way for our visions for the space. Currently, the square features a large ferris wheel awkwardly placed at one end of a vast expanse of asphalt. It is blazing hot in the summer and lifeless in the winter - with pedestrians hurrying through.

With our pop-up intervention, we will implement Danish Best Practices in urban design to revitalise this neglected space, introducing urbanism concepts that are still rare in Ukrainian cities. Our goal is to create an exciting, inviting urban space that encourages prolonged engagement, featuring Trauma-Sensitive Design for veterans and facilities for physical activity for both children and adults.

This ambitious project is a Danish initiative aimed at transforming lives in Ukraine by employing the best practices in Danish urban design, architecture, and urban planning. The temporary intervention on Kontraktova Square will incorporate principles of sustainable architecture, ensuring that the space is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly and resilient. The name of the project - TORV Kyiv - is from the Danish for “public square” - torv.

The project is the brainchild of Mikael Colville-Andersen, the renowned Danish urbanist known for his innovative and human-centred approach to urban design. His vision and expertise will guide the transformation of this iconic Kyiv location into a vibrant, functional, and sustainable urban space. He has teamed up with the Danish company Novo Nordisk is the main sponsor of this project and their Corporate Social Responsibility focuses on improving public health - and measuring the effect of their projects in great detail. The Danish Embassy in Kyiv and the Danish Cultural Institute are also on board.

Tactical Urbanism is more than a trend—it's a powerful movement that transforms cities by empowering citizens to take action. This grassroots approach, characterised by temporary, low-cost, scalable interventions, has reshaped urban spaces worldwide. Born out of the need for rapid, flexible urban solutions, Tactical Urbanism has a rich history of fostering community engagement and revitalising neglected areas.

From New York City's pedestrian plazas to Mexico City’s parklets, Tactical Urbanism has demonstrated its ability to make immediate, impactful changes. These temporary transformations often become permanent fixtures, proving that small-scale interventions can lead to significant, lasting urban improvements.

Our project is planned for a temporary period of two years, whereafter it can be removed in a short period of time.

At Coolville Design Lab, we prioritise people in public spaces through social infrastructure, trauma-sensitive design, and health-focused design. The science is clear: well-designed public spaces offer numerous benefits, including:

- Increased time spent in public spaces

- Dramatic rise in physical activity levels

- Strengthened social networks

- Reduced crime and violence

- Enhanced connectivity for the elderly and infirm

- Rising societal trust

- Exponential growth in civic participation

- Flourishing small and local businesses

- Decreased emissions

Engaging citizens in the design process is crucial. We aim to involve locals through surveys, public conversations, and interactive booths on the square. Visitors can share their ideas on a large map of the square, ensuring the community's voice shapes the redesign. Coolville Design Lab has successfully implemented this inclusive approach in various countries, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

Our ambitious goals for Kontraktova Square include:

- Increasing the number of people using and enjoying the space

- Boosting children's active participation in the space and facilities

- Promoting physical activity

- Enhancing local business profitability

- Encouraging walking, cycling, and public transport use

- Raising awareness of Scandinavian sustainable architecture and Danish Design

- Inspiring other Ukrainian cities to replicate this concept

In a country where energy infrastructure is under constant threat, designing a public space independent of the grid is not just innovative—it's essential. Our approach to sustainability goes beyond traditional methods, focusing on renewable energy sources and recycled materials. By harnessing solar and wind energy, we can ensure that Kontraktova Square remains a vibrant hub even during power outages. This independence from the grid demonstrates resilience and forward-thinking, providing a model for other urban spaces in Kyiv and beyond.

We are committed to using recycled materials such as wood, plastic, and bricks, reducing the environmental impact of new construction. One particularly inspiring idea is to repurpose expired shell casings, transforming symbols of conflict into elements of peace and community. Additionally, we aim to engage the citizens of Kyiv in the process by encouraging them to donate plastic bottles. These bottles can be recycled into large bricks for building iconic structures, turning waste into wonder and fostering a sense of collective achievement.

Our sustainable approach extends to the principles of Domicology, which focuses on the lifecycle of the built environment. Domicology emphasises the importance of designing structures with their eventual deconstruction and material reuse in mind. By incorporating these principles, we can create a public space that not only serves the present but also considers its future dismantling and repurposing, ensuring minimal waste and environmental impact.

Implementing sustainable practices in urban design offers numerous benefits:

Environmental Stewardship: By using recycled materials and renewable energy, we reduce our carbon footprint and set a precedent for eco-friendly urban development.

Economic Efficiency: Sustainable design can lead to cost savings in the long run through energy efficiency and reduced waste management expenses.

Community Engagement: Involving locals in the collection of recyclable materials fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the project.

Resilience and Adaptability: Off-grid energy solutions and adaptable design elements ensure that the space remains functional and inviting, even in the face of infrastructural challenges.

Health and Well-being: Green spaces and sustainable materials contribute to a healthier environment, reducing pollution and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

By integrating these sustainable practices, Kontraktova Square will not only become a model of modern urbanism but also a testament to Kyiv's commitment to a sustainable, resilient future.

Public Seating and Greenery

We will transform the current wasteland into a green oasis filled with public seating (both fixed and mobile) and large planters with mature trees. These elements will provide shade, cool the area during hot weather, and feature trauma-sensitive design. Some seating will include batteries for charging phones and power banks. We'll incorporate bioswales, rain gardens, reclaimed materials, and permeable surfaces to enhance sustainability.

We envision a variety of activities to engage all age groups, including:

- Chess tables and large chess boards with unique pieces

- Dedicated skateboarding areas for children

- Innovative physical activity facilities

- A Traffic Playground for kids to practice cycling

- A public, free ice skating rink in winter

Our wish list for cultural elements includes:

- Outdoor art exhibitions in weather-proof frames

- A strong graphic design identity on the asphalt

- An outdoor cinema

Using vibrant colours, we'll transform the dull grey asphalt into a lively, iconic space. Wayfinding systems will guide visitors to public transport, the river, and cultural offerings, enhancing accessibility and user experience.

In today's world, where cities face increasing challenges from both geopolitical tensions and climate change, off-grid solutions have emerged as a vital technology for urban resilience and sustainability. Our goal for Kontraktova Square is to ensure it is entirely powered by off-grid energy solutions, demonstrating how innovative design can address these pressing issues.

Off-grid technology, which operates independently from the traditional power grid, has seen a significant rise in adoption due to its numerous advantages. It provides a reliable energy source that is not susceptible to the vulnerabilities of centralised infrastructure, making it especially critical in areas affected by conflict, natural disasters, or energy shortages. By equipping Kontraktova Square with large batteries charged by solar panels and wind spires, we ensure a continuous supply of electricity for the space, regardless of external disruptions.

The importance of off-grid solutions cannot be overstated as we confront the dual threats of war and climate change:

Energy Security: Off-grid systems offer a decentralised approach to energy production, reducing dependency on a single, often fragile, power grid. This is particularly crucial in conflict zones where infrastructure is frequently targeted and compromised.

Environmental Impact: Utilising renewable energy sources like solar and wind power significantly reduces carbon emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change. These sustainable solutions help mitigate the environmental footprint of urban areas.

Resilience and Reliability: Off-grid systems provide a reliable energy source during emergencies, ensuring that essential services and community activities can continue uninterrupted. This resilience is invaluable in maintaining public morale and safety during crises.

Economic Benefits: While the initial investment in off-grid technology can be substantial, the long-term savings from reduced energy costs and lower maintenance expenses make it a cost-effective solution. Additionally, it can spur local economic growth by creating green jobs and encouraging technological innovation.

In the context of Kontraktova Square, off-grid solutions will transform the area into a beacon of sustainability and resilience. The entire square will be powered by renewable energy, showcasing Danish solutions for off-grid energy and inspiring Ukraine to adopt similar technologies. This not only highlights the feasibility and benefits of off-grid systems but also serves as an educational platform, raising awareness about sustainable practices and energy independence.

Embracing off-grid solutions at Kontraktova Square aligns with our broader vision of creating urban spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also resilient and sustainable. As cities around the world grapple with the impacts of climate change and geopolitical instability, off-grid technology offers a path forward, ensuring that urban spaces can thrive even in the face of adversity. By leading the way with this innovative approach, Kyiv can set a powerful example for other cities, demonstrating the transformative potential of sustainable urban design.

Join us in transforming Kontraktova Square into a model of urban innovation and community engagement. Together, we can create a space that not only enhances the lives of Podil's citizens but also sets a new standard for urban design in Kyiv and beyond.