Ukraine’s Top-10: Architectural Masterpieces and Construction Innovations in Sacred Architecture

Introduction

Ukraine’s architectural landscape is undergoing fundamental transformations that reflect profound changes in the nation’s sociocultural and spiritual paradigm. Sacred architecture, as the most conservative yet symbolically charged sphere of urban development, in 2024-2025 demonstrates a departure from imperative copying of historical styles—pseudo-Byzantine or “sharovary” baroque—toward seeking a new language of expression. The modern temple in Ukraine ceases to be exclusively a place for conducting liturgy; it evolves into a complex multifunctional facility that serves as a community center, educational hub, memorial space, and architectural dominant in the urban environment.

The importance of contemporary design for religious institutions becomes critical in the context of globalization and digitalization of society. Believers of the new generation, raised on the aesthetics of minimalism and functionality, expect from sacred space not only a mystical atmosphere but also comfort, inclusivity, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness. Architecture becomes an instrument of evangelization and communication: transparent facades symbolize community openness, the use of natural materials emphasizes responsibility for Creation, and technological solutions testify to the institution’s modernity.

The role of innovative construction solutions in this context cannot be overestimated. The use of ventilated facades, large-span structures, parametric modeling, and energy-efficient glazing systems allows architects to create forms that were previously considered impossible or too expensive. The Ukrainian construction materials market, particularly the segment of metal structures, facade systems, and fencing, offers world-class solutions that allow for the implementation of the boldest projects without involving foreign contractors.

In this analytical report, we will examine ten landmark objects of Ukraine’s modern sacred architecture that shape the industry’s face in 2025. We will analyze them from the perspective of architectural theory, engineering complexity, and design perfection. A separate cross-cutting element of the study will be demonstrating the possibilities of integrating products from “Mehbud” company—a leading Ukrainian manufacturer of modern architectural solutions. We will show how metal ceilings, innovative fences, and facade systems can not only protect sacred space but also become an integral part of its aesthetic code.

Statistical Overview of Ukraine’s Sacred Construction Sector (2020-2025)

To understand the context in which the masterpieces described below are created, we present key statistical indicators of industry development:

Top-10 Rating: Architectural Profiles and Innovations

#1 – “Place for Reflection” Synagogue (Babyn Yar Synagogue)

Location: Kyiv, Babyn Yar ravine

Architect: Manuel Herz Architects (Switzerland), construction adaptation in Ukraine

Architectural Profile

This object, opened in 2021 for the 80th anniversary of the Babyn Yar tragedy, became a world sensation and reconceptualization of the concept of “memorial architecture.” This is not a static monumental structure but a dynamic object that transforms.

Architectural concept:

Manuel Herz proposed the concept of “synagogue as a pop-up book.” In its closed state, the structure resembles a flat vertical book or monolithic wall. Through mechanisms, it unfolds, forming a three-dimensional space for prayer. This is a metaphor for opening a new world through reading sacred texts, as well as a symbol of life’s fragility.

Exterior and Interior Design Features:

1. Exterior: The facade is made of century-old oak barn wood, collected from demolished old buildings throughout Ukraine. This gives the object deep symbolism—a physical connection with the past. The wood has natural patina, integrating the structure into the forest landscape of the ravine.
2. Interior: Interior wall surfaces are decorated with bright paintings reproducing the decor of lost wooden synagogues of Western Ukraine (particularly the Gwoździec synagogue) from the 17th-18th centuries. The ceiling is decorated with a star map reproducing the position of stars over Kyiv on September 29, 1941—the day shootings began. This creates a powerful emotional effect of presence.

Construction Achievements and Technologies

1. Kinetic Architecture: The main challenge was creating a reliable opening mechanism. The 11-meter-high wall moves by manual winch, engaging worshippers in the process of “creating” space. This is a unique example of kinetic facade in sacred construction in Ukraine.
2. Materials: The use of stabilized wood combined with a hidden steel frame ensures resistance to wind loads.
3. Awards: The project was shortlisted for the prestigious Dezeen Awards and received wide coverage in world architectural media.

Engineering Systems

The structure has no traditional heating or water supply, as it is an open pavilion. The main emphasis is on mechanical engineering of moving parts and a drainage system that protects paintings from precipitation in the open state.

Mehbud Conceptual Design for “Place for Reflection” Synagogue

Concept Description:

Considering the synagogue’s location in a park area and its wooden texture, Mehbud factory proposes a solution for delicate territory zoning that would not conflict with the natural surroundings.

Solution: “Horizont” Fence with PRINTECH coating (Antique Oak)

We propose using the “Horizont” metal fencing system. Its profile imitates a wooden plank but is made of high-quality galvanized steel with polymer coating.

1. Aesthetics: The “Antique Oak” texture will ideally visually combine with the synagogue’s facade oak, creating a unified ensemble.
2. Functionality: The solid construction of the profile provides necessary privacy for the prayer space, separating it from pedestrian flows in the park. Special lock connections ensure air microcirculation, preventing the formation of “air pockets” and dampness, which is critically important for preserving the synagogue’s wooden structure.
3. Durability: Unlike natural wood, which requires regular maintenance, Mehbud’s fence will last over 20 years without losing appearance, withstanding Kyiv’s climatic conditions.

#2 – “Menorah” Cultural and Business Center (Menorah Center)

Location: Dnipro

Architect: Oleksandr Sorin (Ukraine)

Architectural Profile

Opened in 2012, the “Menorah” center is the world’s largest Jewish complex (total area approximately 50,000 m²). This is a unique example of integrating religious function (synagogue) with cultural, educational, and business components.

Architectural concept:

The complex consists of seven towers symbolizing the Temple seven-branched candelabrum—Menorah. The towers rise in cascade: the lowest have 7 floors, and the highest—22 floors (77 meters). This is an architectural allegory of spiritual ascent.

Design Features:

1. Exterior: Facades are clad with specially developed granite imitating Jerusalem stone. This creates a visual and spiritual connection with Jerusalem. The first floors are designed as a “Wailing Wall” with characteristic masonry.
2. Interior: Interior galleries are finished with marble and Jerusalem stone. Interiors combine art deco luxury with Judaism symbolism. The center “embraces” the historic “Golden Rose” synagogue, protecting it and integrating it into a modern context.

Construction Achievements

1. Scale: Implementing a project of this scale in the center of dense development required unique geotechnical solutions for foundations.
2. Facade Systems: Reynaers CW 50-HA aluminum stick-system glazing was used, allowing the creation of huge transparent atriums and ensuring natural lighting of deep premises.
3. Multifunctionality: The building combines hotels, offices, museums, banquet halls, and a synagogue, making it an example of mixed-use in religious architecture.

Engineering Systems

The complex is equipped with an advanced BMS (Building Management System) controlling climate, lighting, and security. Energy-efficient glazing minimizes heat loss in winter and overheating in summer.

Mehbud Conceptual Design for “Menorah” Center

Concept Description:

For such a large-scale and prestigious object as “Menorah,” Mehbud factory proposes solutions for modernizing commercial zone interiors and improving facade functionality.

Solution 1: “Kubota” Designer Ceiling (Cubic Slatted Ceiling)

In “Menorah’s” atriums and shopping galleries, we propose using a cubic slatted ceiling with mirror gold coating or light wood texture.

1. Aesthetics: The golden color of slats echoes Menorah symbolism (golden candlestick) and adds solemnity and light to the interior. Vertical lamellae visually increase room height.
2. Functionality: The slatted system allows hiding numerous communications (ventilation, sprinkler fire extinguishing systems) while maintaining easy access for maintenance, which is critical for such a large building.

Solution 2: Sun Protection Lamellae (Facade Blinds)

For southern facades of office towers, “Mehbud” proposes installing external steel lamella blinds.

1. Energy Efficiency: This will significantly reduce air conditioning costs by cutting off direct sunlight while preserving natural lighting. Lamella design can be adapted to Jerusalem stone color.

#3 – Patriarchal Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ (UGCC)

Location: Kyiv, Left Bank (near IEC)

Architect: Mykola Levchuk (Ukraine)

Architectural Profile

The main cathedral of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, whose construction lasted 12 years (consecrated in 2013). This is a monumental structure combining modernism with traditions of Ukrainian baroque.

Architectural Concept:

The temple is designed as a “cathedral of light.” Its uniqueness lies in the absence of supporting columns in the interior space. A huge dome with a diameter of 50 meters rests on intersecting arches, creating a single, undivided space capable of accommodating over 3,000 people. This symbolizes community unity.

Design Solutions:

1. Minimalism: The interior is executed in white tones, emphasizing the play of light entering through the dome’s skylight. The absence of excessive decoration concentrates attention on the altar.
2. Form: The temple’s external form resembles the pyramidal composition of Cossack wooden churches but is embodied in concrete and glass.

Construction Achievements

1. Structure: Spanning such a huge span without intermediate supports became a significant engineering challenge for Ukrainian builders. A complex system of reinforcement and monolithic concreting was applied.
2. Acoustics: Special dome geometry and the use of acoustic plasters ensure excellent audibility without unwanted echo effect, which is important for liturgical singing.

Mehbud Conceptual Design for Patriarchal Cathedral

Concept Description:

The cathedral territory is open to the community and borders the Dnipro embankment. “Mehbud” proposes solutions for landscaping and zoning.

Solution: “Rancho” Fence (Ventilated)

For perimeter fencing of the complex and utility zones, we propose “Rancho” type fence.

1. Concept: Horizontal lamellae of different widths, mounted with gaps. This provides see-through viewing (territory remains visually open and welcoming) and free air circulation, which is important in conditions of increased humidity near the river.
2. Design: “Pearl White” color (RAL 9003) or “Silver Metallic” (RAL 9006) will harmoniously complement the cathedral’s snow-white walls, emphasizing its lightness and forward orientation.
3. Materials: Using steel with high zinc content (225 g/m²) and polymer coating guarantees corrosion protection in proximity to water.

#4 – Kyiv Temple (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)

Location: Sofiivska Borshchahivka village (Kyiv region)

Architects: MHTN Architects (USA), Strabag AG

Architectural Profile

The first Mormon temple in Eastern Europe, opened in 2010. The building is a model of modern American religious classics adapted to the Ukrainian context.

Architectural Concept:

Strict geometrism, symmetry, and vertical dominant in the form of a spire with the statue of angel Moroni. The temple is located on an artificially raised hill, which enhances its visual impact.

Design Features:

1. Materials: The facade is completely clad with light Amarelo Macieira granite from Portugal. This stone contains quartzite crystal inclusions that reflect sunlight, making the building literally shine in clear weather.
2. Localization: Ukrainian national motifs are used in stained glass design, carpets, and stone carving—wheat ears and pysanka painting elements symbolizing fertility and resurrection.

Construction Achievements

1. Quality: The project set new standards of construction quality in Ukraine. General contractor Strabag AG (Austria) ensured perfect fitting of granite slabs and execution of interior work with jeweler’s precision.
2. Engineering: The temple is equipped with autonomous life support systems, state-of-the-art ventilation, and water purification system for the baptistery.

Mehbud Conceptual Design for Kyiv Temple

Concept Description:

Considering high requirements for aesthetics and privacy of temple territory, “Mehbud” proposes premium solutions for entrance groups and technical zones.

Solution: Facade Cassettes and “Exclusive Blinds” Fence

1. Technical Buildings: Cladding checkpoints and technical premises with “Mehbud” metal facade cassettes in a color imitating Amarelo Macieira granite texture. This will allow integrating auxiliary structures into the main architectural ensemble.
2. Fence: Blinds-fence around the territory provides complete privacy from outside (opacity) but allows seeing the street from inside. Special lamella geometry also performs noise absorption function, creating an atmosphere of silence and tranquility on temple territory, despite proximity to the Ring Road.

#5 – Ar-Rahma Mosque (Mercy Mosque)

Location: Kyiv, Shchekavytsia Hill (Tatarka)

Architect: Oleksandr Komarovskyi, Serhiy Babushkin

Architectural Profile

Kyiv’s first cathedral mosque, whose construction was completed in 2011. The complex is harmoniously integrated into the complex relief of historic Shchekavytsia Hill.

Design Solutions:

1. Style: Eclecticism of Eastern styles with Ottoman tradition dominance. Use of a large central dome and high minaret (27 m), which became the district’s landscape dominant.
2. Materials: Facades are clad with volcanic tuff brought from Azerbaijan. This stone has a warm shade and porous structure that “breathes.” Dome roofing is made of copper, which over time acquires noble patina.
3. Interior: Paintings and stained glass were hand-made by masters from Turkey.

Construction Achievements

1. Slope Reinforcement: Construction on landslide-prone slopes required installation of a powerful pile foundation system and retaining walls.
2. Public Space: The complex includes not only a mosque but also a school (madrasah), administrative building, and library, forming a closed inner courtyard-atrium.

Mehbud Conceptual Design for Ar-Rahma Mosque

Concept Description:

Integration of Eastern aesthetics into modern technological solutions.

Solution: Decorative Panels (Laser Cutting) and “Grilyato” Ceiling

1. Laser Cutting: “Mehbud” proposes manufacturing decorative metal panels for courtyard zoning and gazebo decoration. The laser cutting pattern can repeat traditional girih geometric ornaments present in the mosque’s interior. This will create a play of light and shadow characteristic of Eastern architecture.
2. “Grilyato” Ceiling for Madrasah: In school classrooms and corridors, cellular “Grilyato” ceiling is appropriate. It provides excellent ventilation, fire safety (NG class), and access to communications while looking modern and light.

#6 – Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Sykhiv)

Location: Lviv, Sykhiv residential district

Architect: Radoslav Zhuk (Canada/Ukraine)

Architectural Profile

This temple is a manifesto of modern Ukrainian sacred architecture. Built in the heart of Lviv’s largest sleeping district, it became a symbol of spiritual revival.

Architectural Concept:

Radoslav Zhuk applied principles of “dynamic symmetry” and modernism. The temple combines traditional cross-domed scheme with clear geometric volumes devoid of excessive decoration. White facade color and large glass areas create an image of purity and light.

Design Features:

1. Environment Interaction: The church does not oppose the district’s multi-story development but enters into dialogue with it through scale and form rhythm.
2. Interior: Light, laconic, with emphasis on vertical space ascent under the dome.

Construction Achievements

1. Urbanism: The temple became the core of forming a new district central square (Ivan Paul II Square), transforming a transit space into a place of public activity.
2. Energy Efficiency: Modern insulation and energy-saving windows were used in construction, which is atypical for churches of the 90s—early 2000s.

Mehbud Conceptual Design for Sykhiv Church

Concept Description:

The temple’s modernist architecture requires corresponding laconic solutions in fencing and landscaping.

Solution: “Rancho” Fence (High-Tech Collection) and Facade Blinds

1. Fence: Metal “Rancho” fence with wide lamellae in “Graphite” color (RAL 7024) will emphasize the temple’s geometric strictness. Horizontal fence lines will visually expand square space.
2. Sun Protection: Installing “Mehbud” facade blinds on parish center windows will allow regulating insolation of classrooms and offices, maintaining high-tech style.

#7 – Space of Synagogues

Location: Lviv, Staroievreiska Street

Architect: Franz Reschke (Germany)

Architectural Profile

This is a unique example for Ukraine of memorial public space created on the site of destroyed sanctuaries (“Golden Rose” synagogue, Beit Hamidrash, and Great City Synagogue). The project was nominated for the EU Prize for Contemporary Architecture Mies van der Rohe Award.

Design Solutions:

• Conservation vs New: Architects did not rebuild synagogues but conserved ruins, complementing them with new elements of white concrete and stone (“eternal stones”).
• Landscape: The space was cleared of fences and visual noise, transformed into a place for quiet reflection and public events.

Construction Achievements

1. Materials: Use of specially treated smooth concrete that contrasts with old brick texture and greenery.
2. Inclusivity: The space is completely barrier-free, integrated into the old city’s pedestrian structure.

Mehbud Conceptual Design for Space of Synagogues

Concept Description:

Minimalist intervention for protection and comfort.

Solution: Designer Pergolas and Low Fencing

1. Pergolas: “Mehbud” can design light metal pergolas from lamellae to create shade over recreation zones. Color—matte white or light gray to merge with memorial stone steles.
2. Ruins Protection: Using low, almost invisible barrier fencing from metal profile to protect conserved foundation sections from accidental damage by visitors, without disturbing the space’s visual integrity.

#8 – Transfiguration Cathedral (Liko-Grad)

Location: Kyiv, Teremky-2 residential district

Developer: Liko-Holding

Architectural Profile

Bright example of integrating sacred structure into modern residential complex structure. The cathedral was built in Ukrainian neo-baroque style but is technologically modern building.

Features:

1. Carillon: The bell tower is equipped with Ukraine’s largest carillon of 56 bells controlled by a computer system. This combines archaic tradition with digital technologies.
2. Decoration: Unique mosaic panels on facades and in interior, made by contemporary artists.

Engineering Systems

The cathedral has an autonomous boiler room, underfloor heating system throughout the temple area, and modern ventilation system ensuring comfort with large crowds.

Mehbud Conceptual Design for Liko-Grad Cathedral

Concept Description:

Harmonization with residential development and acoustic comfort.

Solution: Noise-absorbing “Blinds” Fence

Since the temple is located adjacent to high-rises, “Mehbud” proposes using acoustic version of “Blinds” fence.

1. Function: Special lamella shape disperses sound waves, reducing noise level from bells for first-floor residents and, conversely, protecting church courtyard from city noise.
2. Design: Fence color scheme (beige, terracotta) is selected to match “Liko-Grad” residential complex facade solutions, creating a unified architectural code for the neighborhood.

#9 – Modern Mosque Project by YODEZEEN

Status: Project in development (international, authored by Ukrainian studio)

Architects: YODEZEEN Architects (Kyiv)

Architectural Profile

Although this project is implemented outside Ukraine, it demonstrates Ukrainian architectural school’s potential. YODEZEEN studio presented a vision of the mosque of the future: rejection of excessive decoration in favor of form purity and work with light.

Design:

Monolithic volumes, use of Italian travertine, hidden light sources creating wall levitation effect. This is architecture of silence and contemplation.

Construction Innovations

Use of parametric design for calculating acoustics and lighting scenarios. Integration of “smart” building management systems.

Mehbud Conceptual Design: Technology Export

Concept Description:

For similar futuristic objects, “Mehbud” proposes:

Solution: 3D Facade Panels and Custom Design Ceilings

1. Facade: Metal cassettes of complex geometric shape (triangles, rhombuses) creating volumetric facade relief.
2. Ceiling: Wave-shaped Rack ceilings for prayer hall, imitating sand dunes or waves, enhancing interior meditative effect.

#10 – Mountain Church “Ark” (Global Trends Influence) and Wooden Reconstructions

Context:

Ukrainian architects increasingly turn to world experience (such as mountain ark-church in China) and their own heritage (Gwoździec synagogue reconstruction).

Architectural Profile

Trend toward eco-minimalism. Use of glued laminated timber, large panoramic windows, integration into Carpathian or forest zone landscapes.

Mehbud Conceptual Design: Eco-Style

Solution: “Beam” Metal Siding and Roofing

1. Facade: Metal siding with coating perfectly imitating natural log texture (“Golden Oak,” “Alder”). This allows building temples that look wooden but are fire-safe and require no maintenance.
2. Roofing: Seam panels or metal tiles in restrained colors (graphite, black) to create modern silhouette.