Building On Brownfield Sites

Rather than expanding onto new land, the Interregional Academy of Personnel Management (IAPM) believes in the importance of revitalizing existing spaces whenever possible.
An excellent example of this commitment is the decision to repurpose a brownfield site for the creation of IAPM’s main campus in Kyiv. This project goes far beyond constructing new buildings — it stands as a model of sustainable urban development and environmental responsibility.

Previous Use of the Campus Territory

Before the establishment of the IAPM campus, this area was an industrial brownfield site. It once hosted several factories and workshops, including the Kyivhuma rubber factory, the Art Glass plant, and other smaller manufacturing facilities, as well as numerous abandoned garages.
By the 1990s, these enterprises had gone bankrupt, leaving behind a neglected and environmentally degraded industrial zone.

     

Transformation of the Brownfield Site into the IAPM Campus

In 1994, IAPM began transforming this abandoned brownfield site into a vibrant and functional educational environment. The redevelopment covered an area of 15 hectares on V. Lobanovskyi Avenue and became a symbol of sustainable reuse of urban land.

Key Project Details:

Location: Demiivska Square, V. Lobanovskyi Avenue

Scale: Planned construction of 32 buildings, of which 30 have already been completed:

2 administrative buildings

23 academic buildings

1 sports complex

4 dormitories

Purpose: To provide research-based education, prepare highly qualified professionals for the modern labor market, and promote an innovative culture supported by modern infrastructure.

Sustainability Vision: IAPM aims to be a leader in sustainable design, developing and applying energy-efficient and low-carbon technologies, including a potential “Net Zero Carbon” strategy.

The campus integrates a low-temperature distributed energy system, solar thermal energy, and high-efficiency cogeneration, providing reliable and environmentally friendly on-site power.

Sustainable Sites

The IAPM campus development prioritizes the responsible use of land and urban resources. By transforming an abandoned brownfield site instead of occupying undeveloped areas, the Academy has minimized urban sprawl and preserved valuable green zones around Kyiv. The project also integrates landscaped courtyards and pedestrian-friendly pathways that enhance biodiversity and promote well-being for students and staff. This thoughtful site planning encourages walking and cycling, supporting a safe and inclusive campus environment.

Water

Water efficiency plays an essential role in the IAPM sustainability framework. The campus utilizes modern water-saving fixtures and a stormwater management system that reduces runoff and helps recharge local groundwater. Green areas are maintained using an optimized irrigation system that minimizes waste and supports native plant species. These measures reduce the overall environmental footprint of the campus and promote the sustainable use of water resources.

Energy

Energy efficiency is at the heart of IAPM’s sustainable design strategy. The campus incorporates low-temperature distributed energy systems, solar thermal panels, and high-efficiency cogeneration units that provide reliable, low-carbon power generation. Building designs maximize natural lighting and ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial systems. Through these solutions, IAPM moves toward a “Net Zero Carbon” future while fostering innovation in energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy research.

Materials

Sustainable construction materials were carefully selected during the development of the IAPM campus. The use of locally sourced and recycled materials reduced transportation emissions and supported regional industries. Durable, low-emission finishes were chosen to ensure indoor air quality and long-term performance. This material strategy not only minimizes waste during construction but also reflects the Academy’s commitment to sustainable procurement and responsible resource management.

   

   

The redevelopment of the IAPM campus demonstrates how brownfield regeneration can drive sustainable progress. By building on a former industrial site rather than expanding onto new land, IAPM not only preserves valuable natural resources but also upholds its mission to make environmentally responsible choices.

This transformation turned a once-abandoned industrial zone into a dynamic center of education, research, and innovation, contributing to the sustainable future of Kyiv and setting an inspiring example for urban renewal projects worldwide.