Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Panels Create a Tranquil Space for Cultural Exchange

Author:
Chihiro Tow
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Panels Create a Tranquil Space for Cultural Exchange

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles enveloping glass panels, the design elegantly merges traditional Japanese elements with modern construction, creating a serene coffee house that fosters community interaction and cultural exchange.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a Nijiri-guchi half-door, enhancing the entrance experience and promoting cultural respect.
02
Sliding panels offer dynamic spatial arrangements, allowing the coffee house to adapt to varying patron needs throughout the seasons.
03
The integration of a flowering tree outside the structure creates a natural focal point, linking the building to its environment.
04
A genkan entryway invites visitors to remove their shoes, cultivating a sense of intimacy and comfort within the communal space.
05
Glass paneling allows for transparency in coffee preparation, fostering curiosity and interaction between baristas and patrons.
The project at hand is an architectural design of a Japanese Coffee House, a thoughtful and engaging space that aims to foster cultural exchange through the communal experience of coffee. This project intricately blends the principles of traditional Japanese architecture with contemporary design approaches, creating a multifunctional environment that caters to both the enjoyment of coffee and the celebration of cultural diversity.

At its core, the Japanese Coffee House embodies a unique concept that is reflective of Japanese aesthetics and philosophies. Inspired by the traditional tea room, the design shifts the focus from individual consumption to shared experience, encouraging patrons to connect with one another. The architecture of the coffee house invites visitors to step into a calming environment, allowing them to leave behind the busyness of their day-to-day lives.

Functionally, the coffee house is divided into distinct yet interconnected spaces. The main area serves as the central gathering point where customers can enjoy coffee and engage in conversations. This space mimics the intimate atmosphere of a traditional Japanese tea room, fostering a sense of community among its users. Adjacent to the main area, an extension provides additional seating options, allowing for greater flexibility depending on the time of day and the volume of patrons. The sliding doors and modular design enable a dynamic use of space that adapts to changing conditions and customer preferences.

A notable feature of this architectural design is the use of materials that reflect both Japanese tradition and modern sensibilities. The warm tones of wood create an inviting ambiance, while the structural integrity of concrete establishes durability and resilience. Glass panels incorporated into the design enhance visibility, offering glimpses of the coffee preparation process, which cultivates curiosity among pedestrians and deepens the connection between the interior and exterior environments.

Unique design approaches set this coffee house apart from conventional cafes. The kinetic nature of the sliding panels allows for the reconfiguration of the space based on customer activity and seasonal changes. The design employs the concept of a genkan, a traditional entryway where visitors are encouraged to remove their shoes, promoting a sense of respect and intimacy. These thoughtful aspects create an inclusive atmosphere that encourages interaction among patrons from diverse backgrounds.

Furthermore, the integration of natural elements such as a prominent flowering tree within the surroundings enhances the overall experience, emphasizing the harmonious relationship between the building and its environment. This connection to nature not only elevates the aesthetic quality of the space but also resonates with the cognitive awareness prevalent in traditional Japanese architecture.

In summary, the Japanese Coffee House represents a harmonious fusion of architectural design and cultural identity. Its purpose extends beyond the mere provision of coffee; it seeks to create an inviting and collaborative space that celebrates the beauty of shared experiences in a multicultural setting. For those interested in delving deeper into this project, a closer examination of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will offer valuable insights into the innovative thinking and careful planning that underpin this unique architectural endeavor. Explore the project presentation for more detailed information and visual references that capture the essence of this architectural achievement.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy