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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form Functional Mobile Coffee Trailer

Author:
Robert Heister
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form Functional Mobile Coffee Trailer

Project in-detail

Combining charred wooden shingles with cross-laminated timber, this mobile coffee trailer offers a sustainable approach to coffee service that fosters community engagement while adapting seamlessly to various urban and rural settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The trailer incorporates a unique triangular roof that effectively mitigates snow accumulation in colder climates.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used for their aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability against weather conditions.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while promoting sustainable building practices.
04
An innovative daisy-chain feature allows multiple trailers to be connected for larger service areas during events.
05
The design includes natural sheep wool insulation, ensuring energy efficiency and temperature regulation.
The project represents a thoughtful and innovative approach to mobile coffee service through architecture designed for both urban and rural environments. This design brings to life the concept of a mobile coffee trailer, which seamlessly combines functionality with an engaging aesthetic that respects and responds to local culture. In the context of Northern Europe, where coffee culture is deeply ingrained in daily life, the architecture of this trailer caters not only to practicality but also to the communal experience that coffee provides.

The primary function of this mobile coffee trailer is to serve high-quality coffee efficiently while promoting a sense of community interaction. The design emphasizes a workspace that is both effective and welcoming for baristas and customers alike. The layout includes a spacious service area, strategically designed with ample counter space for coffee preparation, while also incorporating essential equipment, such as commercial blenders and coffee machines. This considerate arrangement makes the process of serving coffee both intuitive and skillful, ensuring that patrons receive their drinks promptly without compromising quality.

A notable aspect of the trailer is its unique triangular roof, a design choice that serves multiple purposes. Beyond its visual appeal, the roof gracefully redirects rainwater and prevents snow accumulation, an essential feature for maintaining the structure's integrity in colder climates. The insulation made from sheep wool enhances the overall energy efficiency of the trailer, ensuring that it remains warm during the colder months while minimizing the use of heating systems.

The exterior material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and durability. The use of treated wood or durable composite materials for cladding not only helps in maintaining the trailer's appearance over time but also aligns with environmentally conscious design practices. The vibrant color palette applied to the exterior invites curiosity and engagement, drawing in customers and fostering a lively atmosphere.

Storage solutions are cleverly integrated into the design, with overhead compartments and shelving that keep the service area organized and functional. This aspect of the design is particularly significant in a mobile architectural project, where space is limited and efficiency is paramount. The inclusion of optimized water systems, comprising separate fresh and grey water tanks, indicates forward-thinking planning that addresses utility needs without compromising the mobility of the trailer.

One of the standout features of the design is its ability to integrate multiple trailers into a cohesive service unit, allowing for collaborative operations at events or festivals. This capacity for "daisy-chaining" different trailers not only provides flexibility but also significantly enhances the operational capacity, allowing the coffee service to cater to larger crowds without losing the charm of the intimate coffee experience.

In summary, this mobile coffee trailer serves as a compelling example of how architecture can address contemporary needs while respecting cultural contexts. It is an embodiment of thoughtful design that prioritizes sustainability, functionality, and community engagement. For those interested in exploring this project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas are available for review, offering deeper insights into how innovative architectural solutions can redefine everyday experiences in coffee culture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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