The method of reconstruction of the interior quarterly space in the formation of a modern housing in the conditions of a historical building

Abstract

Historic city blocks, which are often characterized by polygonal layouts that form a beautiful inner courtyard, present many challenges for the formation of modern housing in the context of historical buildings, mainly due to space limitations. Incorporating essential amenities as required by state law, such as children's play areas, adult recreation areas, and car and bicycle parking, requires a subtle approach that harmonizes modern needs with heritage preservation. This study formulates a three-stage methodological framework for the reconstruction of intra-neighborhood spaces, especially in Ukrainian urban contexts. In the study, three primary principles of the design of residential areas are defined: closed-type greening, common intra-quarter improvement and extra-quarter improvement. These principles advocate a synergistic use of spaces where modern residential buildings can share amenities with neighboring buildings, contributing to a shared, sustainable living environment. The case of a historical quarter in Kyiv presented in the article serves as a practical manifestation of these principles, illustrating how shared amenities and strategic planning can contribute to the seamless integration of modern housing into the historical context, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the entire quarter. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of transforming inner courtyards into greener recreational areas, while centralizing parking spaces and relegating them to the periphery to create an organized, breathable urban ecosystem. This study argues that the harmonization of contemporary housing with historic architecture goes beyond simple external assimilation; it requires a deep understanding and rethinking of adjacent spaces so that they meet modern requirements. The insights gathered here hold significant potential to guide future research into the evolution of dynamic, inclusive and culturally rich urban environments.