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Adjustable Roof Canopy and Modular Plywood Structure for a Community Coffeehouse

Authors:
Radhakrishnan T r, Mona vijay Jain
Adjustable Roof Canopy and Modular Plywood Structure for a Community Coffeehouse

Project in-detail

With a modular pixel system crafted from plywood and an adjustable roof structure that emphasizes climate adaptability, the design functions as a dynamic coffeehouse and community hub, seamlessly blending literature and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular pixel system allows for flexible spatial arrangements to suit different community events.
02
Adjustable roof design enhances natural ventilation and provides weather protection.
03
Incorporates solar panels for energy efficiency and sustainability.
04
Detachable shelves extend the library experience into outdoor public spaces.
05
Plywood structure promotes lightweight construction while maintaining aesthetic warmth.

### Project Overview

"The Big Tiny Coffee House" is located within an urban environment and aims to integrate a community-centric space that combines coffee consumption with literary culture. The design seeks to function as more than just a commercial entity; it aspires to encourage knowledge exchange and foster community interaction. By incorporating elements typically associated with libraries, the project promotes a culture of informal learning and social engagement.

### Spatial Organization and Configuration

The design utilizes a modular approach known as the "Pixel Module," with each unit measuring 45 x 45 cm to support various functions such as storage for books and coffee supplies and workstations for baristas. This flexibility allows for the space to be reconfigured for different activities, including reading, socializing, or hosting events. The interior layout promotes movement and interaction through thoughtfully arranged modules that create "void circulation," facilitating navigation and community engagement. Outdoor areas are enhanced with detachable shelves, extending the library experience beyond the building and inviting public interaction in surrounding parks or plazas.

### Materiality and Climate Adaptability

The project employs a diverse selection of materials to achieve both functional and aesthetic goals. Plywood is utilized for the modular system due to its warmth, durability, and lightweight properties, while a steel framework provides structural integrity. Polycarbonate sheeting is used for the roof, allowing natural light to enter while offering weather protection. Solar panels are integrated into the roof design, contributing to energy efficiency and sustainability. The structure features an adjustable roof that provides shade and rain protection, enhancing user comfort and emphasizing environmentally responsive design. The coffee house is also built on wheels, allowing for mobility and adaptability across different urban settings, reinforcing its commitment to flexible community engagement.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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