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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Compact Urban Café

Authors:
Stamatia Tsatsi, Miltos Kalogeris
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Compact Urban Café

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this compact structure serves as a multifunctional café that seamlessly integrates into its urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a bent A-frame design for enhanced structural integrity.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that reduce construction time and enhance sustainability.
04
Designed as a modular unit that can be easily relocated to different urban settings.
05
Equipped with rainwater harvesting systems to support eco-friendly operations.

# Analytical Report on the Architectural Design Proposal: The Big Tiny Kaffe Hus

## Overview

The Big Tiny Kaffe Hus is situated within the context of Scandinavia’s robust coffee culture, emphasizing a modern architectural response to urban demands. Designed as a modular structure, it aims to serve as both a coffee shop and a community gathering space, adaptable to various northern European urban environments. This report analyzes key design elements, materials, and the practical implications of the structure.

## Urban Integration and Spatial Regulation

### Community-Centric Design

The architectural intent prioritizes integration into the existing urban fabric, creating an environment conducive to social interaction. The layout is organized to facilitate efficient movement for both staff and patrons, promoting seamless service delivery and customer engagement. Dedicated zones are established for essential equipment, while public interaction spaces are designed to enhance the communal experience.

### Modularity and Structural Response

The Kaffe Hus employs a modular design that enhances versatility and ease of relocation in urban settings. The structural system is characterized by angular forms and a dynamic roofline, featuring slatted wood panels that enhance both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. Photovoltaic panels and an innovative rainwater collection system contribute to its sustainable approach, aligning with contemporary environmental standards.

## Materiality and Sustainability

### Material Selection

The choice of materials reflects an emphasis on sustainability and aesthetic warmth. The project utilizes locally sourced wood for cladding, providing natural insulation and contributing to the overall character of the design. Steel frameworks ensure structural integrity, while a combination of timber and metal creates a balance between durability and visual interest.

### Sustainable Practices

The architectural strategy incorporates several sustainable practices, including energy generation through solar panels and efficient rainwater harvesting. These features minimize ecological impact and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources, supporting the overall goal of environmental responsibility within urban coffee culture.

## Aesthetic and Functional Details

### Interior Experience

The interior spaces are characterized by clean lines and a blend of light and dark wood finishes, evoking a welcoming atmosphere. The materials chosen not only enhance the visual qualities but also promote comfort for users. The arrangement and detailing serve to encourage social interaction, fulfilling the role of a vibrant coffee hub within the urban landscape.

### Construction and Adaptability

The Kaffe Hus's design allows for easy assembly and disassembly, featuring an elaborate framework that responds to demographic and spatial changes. The project exemplifies a modern coffee shop concept that meets the demands of urban life through a thoughtfully designed, adaptable structure.

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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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