EcoSteps Center

Project idea

The idea of this project comes from the urgent need for a new type of public space in Stryi that responds to both environmental and social challenges. The region faces increasing climate threats, limited educational infrastructure for sustainability, and the impact of war. People need a safe, inspiring place to gather, learn, and reconnect with nature and culture.
This project proposes an eco-educational center that acts as a model for sustainable living while preserving Ukrainian heritage. It aims to achieve environmental, social, and cultural goals through its design and function. Inspired by the Carpathian identity, it blends traditional craftsmanship with modern green technologies.
The center will serve the community by offering educational programs, cultural exhibitions, and emergency shelter when needed. It represents a solution that addresses the climate crisis, promotes resilience, and strengthens local identity—all in one place.

Project description

The project in Stryi, Lviv Oblast, is a sustainable public center that merges environmental education with cultural heritage. It serves as a safe community hub with a bomb shelter and flexible spaces for public use. The design follows a tree metaphor: a basement for shelter and water storage, timber-structured public floors, and a green roof with solar panels.
It aims for net-zero energy using solar and geothermal systems, 90% local or recycled materials, and water recycling. The architecture blends modern eco-design with Ukrainian traditions like Hutsul woodwork and vyshyvanka motifs.
The center hosts over 300 visitors monthly for workshops, cultural exhibitions, and resilience programs, acting as a model for how sustainability and heritage can shape the future together.

Technical information

Structure: Reinforced concrete basement; above-ground timber frame with CLT panels
Roof: Green roof with solar panels; timber trusses
Insulation: Natural materials; triple-glazed windows
Energy: Solar + geothermal systems; net-zero goal
Water: Rainwater harvesting + greywater recycling
Ventilation: Natural + mechanical with heat recovery
Materials: Low-VOC, natural wood, earth plaster
Access: Ramps, elevator, universal design
Fire Safety: Treated timber, detectors, sprinklers
Shelter: Reinforced bomb shelter in basement

Documentation

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