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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
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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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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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