Before the war, Martin saw Ukraine as a “new frontier” for Western architects, a land where much could be reimagined. However, he often felt disheartened by the dominance of commercial and low-quality architecture. It was the academic sphere that captivated him—a place where ideas could flourish, free from market constraints. But the war brought an urgent realization: architecture could no longer be just about buildings; it had to serve people, identity, and heritage.
Traveling across the country — from bustling cities to war-torn frontlines — Martin discovered an extraordinary strength in Ukrainians. Despite the immense challenges, he witnessed optimism, unity, and a profound dedication to rebuilding their nation. “Whenever I return to France,” he says, “I carry with me the energy of a country that, even in its darkest moment, radiates resilience.”
Through his work, Martin has engaged with local governments, architects, and students, focusing on how reconstruction can honor Ukraine’s diversity. Each region, he notes, has its unique character—a mosaic of cultures, traditions, and histories that form a rich foundation for its future. For him, designing in Ukraine is not just about physical structures but about preserving identity and empowering communities to reclaim their spaces.
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Standing on the frontlines of cities devastated by war, Martin sees architecture as a force for hope. But hope, he knows, needs protection. When speaking to European leaders, his message is clear: Ukraine’s fight is not just about territorial integrity — it is a battle for democracy, freedom, and the values that unite Europe.
“This war is massive,” he warns. “If we fail to support Ukraine now, we risk enabling forces that threaten us all. The time to act is not tomorrow but today.”
For Martin, Ukraine’s struggle is also its strength. It’s a country forging its identity anew, and he is determined to be part of that transformation — not as a savior but as a partner in rebuilding a nation’s future, one brick, one idea, and one shared vision at a time.
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