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Biodegradable Clay Cups in a Flexible Gathering Space Designed for Urban Community Interaction

Authors:
Vsevolod Yurchenko, Pamela Feng, Anthea Karakoullis
Biodegradable Clay Cups in a Flexible Gathering Space Designed for Urban Community Interaction
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Employing biodegradable clay cups and adaptable modular spaces, the design facilitates community engagement while addressing sustainability in an urban coffee consumption context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes biodegradable clay cups to reduce waste in coffee consumption.
02
Features adaptable modular spaces that can reconfigure based on user traffic.
03
Incorporates biophilic design elements through integrated plant life.
04
Employs lightweight metal hollow rods for structural support and resilience.
05
Integrates renewable energy through photovoltaic solar panels for sustainability.

The architectural project titled "The Cup" presents a solution to environmental challenges posed by single-use coffee cups. Located in an urban environment, the design underscores the importance of sustainability while promoting community interaction. "The Cup" reimagines a traditional coffee shop experience, substituting disposable items with reusable, biodegradable materials.

The structure features a modular design that adapts to the number of users, creating a dynamic spatial arrangement conducive to social engagement. By facilitating a shared experience, the architectural design encourages users to rethink their consumption habits and fosters a sense of community around sustainable practices.

Unique Aspects of Design
The adaptability of "The Cup" is a defining characteristic, allowing the space to expand or contract depending on user demand. This flexibility is showcased through a series of movable partitions and adaptable seating arrangements that can be reconfigured as needed. Additionally, the use of clay cups, which are biodegradable and glazed for hygiene, ensures that the project aligns with its sustainability goals.

The design also includes a game-like experience for users, encouraging exploration within the space. The integration of plants not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the environment but also contributes to air quality and user comfort. The employment of renewable energy sources, such as photovoltaic solar panels, further strengthens the project's commitment to sustainability and reduces its carbon footprint.

Functional and Structural Components
"The Cup" integrates various materials to achieve its architectural vision. Key materials include clay for the cups, wood for structural and decorative use, and painted MDF for furniture elements. Metal hollow rods offer lightweight structural support, ensuring durability while maintaining a refined aesthetic.

The project emphasizes community interaction through its layout, which prioritizes open spaces for mingling and socializing. Barista stations are designed to foster dialogue between staff and customers, transforming the coffee purchase into a more engaging experience. The adaptable design effectively accommodates different group sizes and activities, making "The Cup" suitable for various contexts within the urban landscape.

To gain deeper insights into "The Cup," including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design concepts, readers are encouraged to explore the project's official presentation. The various architectural ideas illustrated within the presentation serve to expand understanding of its innovative approach to merging sustainability with community-focused design.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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