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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 Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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