TED: How to design for dignity during times of war | Slava Balbek

The speaker, an architect turned military volunteer, shares their journey from architectural achievements to aiding Ukraine's defense and humanitarian efforts during the invasion. They discuss the transition from a regular life to emergency response, founding an emergency kitchen, and developing dignified temporary housing solutions. The Ray Ukraine Housing initiative aims to provide comfortable temporary accommodations and tools for rebuilding homes, emphasizing community and resilience. Despite challenges like power cuts, the speaker highlights the importance of using peaceful times wisely and embracing the future with dignity.

What role does the narrator primarily identify with now?

• Entrepreneur

• Military Volunteer

• Architect

• Cafe Designer

What was one of the architectural projects mentioned by the narrator before the war?

• Designing a new city in Kiev

• Creating a theme park in Paris

• Renovating an old church in San Francisco

• Building a skyscraper in New York

What was the primary goal of the Kiev Volunteer organization?

• To offer legal aid to refugees

• To rebuild destroyed homes

• To cook meals for Territorial Defense units

• To provide shelter for displaced people

What insight did the narrator gain about home during their humanitarian mission?

• Home is just a physical structure

• Home is defined by its location

• Home is a temple and can be healing

• Home is only important during peacetime

What is the main focus of Ray Ukraine Housing?

• Developing eco-friendly buildings

• Building permanent homes for refugees

• Raising the standard of temporary housing

• Creating luxury apartments in Kiev

What was the symbolic significance of the Butcher District for the Ray Ukraine Housing project?

• It was the capital of Ukraine

• It was a site of Russian atrocities

• It was known for its architectural beauty

• It was the first liberated area

What is the purpose of Ray Ukraine Villages?

• To provide free online education

• To offer medical assistance to rural areas

• To generate manuals for rural housing restoration

• To organize cultural events in villages

How did the narrator's team adapt to power outages?

• By charging computers from a car inverter

• By using solar panels

• By working only during daylight

• By relocating to another city

What challenge did the narrator's team face at the end of 2022?

• Increased military attacks in Kiev

• Shortage of building materials

• Targeting of power plants by Russia

• Lack of funding

What advice does the narrator give about living in peace?

• Avoid taking risks

• Focus on the past

• Worry about the future

• Use time wisely and embrace the future with dignity