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Circular Café Constructed With Brick And Glass, Embracing Graywater Systems And Community Engagement

Authors:
Ruben Alvarez, Vivian Sánchez-boniche, Elizabeth Segura hernandez
Circular Café Constructed With Brick And Glass, Embracing Graywater Systems And Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Emphasizing circularity and sustainability, the café thoughtfully integrates a brick structure and expansive glass façade while harnessing graywater systems to create an engaging environment for community interaction and coffee enjoyment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The café features a circular design that fosters a sense of community interaction.
02
Brick construction is combined with expansive glass to enhance natural light and visibility.
03
Sustainable graywater systems are integrated to promote water conservation within the café operations.
04
The choice of locally sourced materials reflects the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
05
The structure is designed to provide an immersive experience of the coffee preparation process, connecting patrons to its origins.
This architectural project embodies a thoughtful integration of form, function, and narrative, designed to reflect the journey of coffee from “seed to cup.” The design serves as a micro kiosk or café that not only facilitates the preparation and enjoyment of coffee but also highlights the significance of agricultural practices and sustainability. The overall intention is to create a space that fosters community interaction and an appreciation for the origins of one of the world’s most consumed beverages.

The architectural design is characterized by its circular form, promoting a sense of unity and collaboration among visitors. This layout is strategically developed to encourage social engagement, making the space feel inviting and accessible. The central area is potentially dedicated to coffee preparation, while surrounding zones offer functional spaces for storage and customer interaction. The coherent organization of these spaces reflects a strong commitment to both functionality and the idea of community.

Material choice in this project plays a crucial role in bridging the aesthetic with the practical. The use of brick, concrete, wood, and glass aligns with the project’s sustainable ethos while delivering a modern and appealing visual language. Brick embodies durability and warmth, fostering a tactile connection to the structure, whereas concrete likely provides essential structural support. Wood elements are integrated to create an organic atmosphere, connecting the interior with natural influences. Glass, extensively used for large openings, enhances transparency and invites natural light, emphasizing the interaction between the interior environment and the surrounding landscape.

A notable feature of this project is its emphasis on sustainability. The inclusion of gray water systems showcases an innovative approach to conserving water resources while promoting ecological consciousness. This is further complemented by passive climate control strategies that could optimize energy efficiency throughout the building’s operation. Such sustainable practices are integral not only to environmental stewardship but also to educating visitors about the importance of sustainability in everyday practices.

In terms of unique design approaches, the project stands out for its thematic focus on the coffee production process. By transforming the café experience into an educational journey, it connects patrons to the agricultural roots of coffee. This narrative aspect is more than a mere backdrop; it is woven into the fabric of the design, challenging the traditional static nature of café spaces and offering dynamic engagement with the process of coffee making.

The architectural plans emphasize a cohesive arrangement, clearly articulating relationships between different functional zones. Vertical elevations display careful consideration of height and facade treatments, contributing to a visually dynamic exterior that respects its urban context while making a subtle statement. The overall structure reflects a balance between a modern architectural aesthetic and a respect for its surrounding environment, blending harmoniously into the existing landscape.

Further exploration of the project's architectural plans, sections, and designs is encouraged to appreciate the nuanced details and sophisticated ideas that have informed this effort. By delving into these aspects, one can gain deeper insights into the innovative approaches employed in the design, revealing how this project addresses contemporary architectural challenges while remaining rooted in its purpose and community. This exploration not only showcases the tangible aspects of the project but also highlights the broader ideas it seeks to promote within the urban fabric and collective consciousness.
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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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