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Circular Coffee Kiosk Crafted From Norway Spruce with Integrated Rainwater Harvesting

Authors:
Tashon Lewis, Jonathan Williams, Nicholas Marshall
Circular Coffee Kiosk Crafted From Norway Spruce with Integrated Rainwater Harvesting

Project in-detail

Crafted from Norway spruce and designed with a circular form, this coffee kiosk integrates a rainwater harvesting system while fostering community engagement in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design promotes accessibility and social interaction.
02
Constructed primarily from sustainably sourced Norway spruce.
03
Integrated rainwater harvesting system reduces environmental impact.
04
Infrared heating elements enhance comfort year-round.
05
Translucent panels create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The Big Tiny Coffee House is a compact architectural project designed to serve as a multifunctional coffee kiosk. Positioned in an urban setting, the project emphasizes community interaction while maintaining a connection with nature. The circular design offers both aesthetic appeal and practical utility, allowing for a seamless integration into the cityscape. Constructed with sustainable materials, the coffee house not only serves coffee but also embodies principles of environmental consciousness.

The design's primary function is to provide a space where individuals can gather to enjoy coffee while facilitating social interactions. The structure features an operational espresso counter, seating areas, and efficient workflow for baristas. This kiosk supports both casual and intentional visits, catering to varying patron preferences. The layout promotes movement and encourages engagement between staff and customers, fostering a sense of community within an urban environment.

Innovative Design Approaches and Unique Features

One of the most distinguishing aspects of the Big Tiny Coffee House is its circular form, which diverges from the traditional rectangular structure of many kiosks. This geometry enhances accessibility and creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages socializing. The design incorporates Norway spruce, known for its warmth and sustainability, alongside galvanized steel for structural integrity. This combination reflects a commitment to both aesthetic and practical considerations.

Additionally, the inclusion of a water catchment system is a noteworthy design feature. This system demonstrates a proactive approach to resource management, capturing rainwater to alleviate reliance on municipal water sources. Furthermore, infrared heating devices embedded within the seating areas address climate challenges, enhancing year-round usability and patron comfort.

Functional Aspects and Material Choices

The Big Tiny Coffee House prioritizes functionality in its layout. It includes a POS system, a display counter for pastries and other offerings, and practical fixtures such as a sink. The design allows for an efficient workflow while maintaining a focus on customer experience. Translucent double panels provide natural light, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, thus creating a more inviting environment.

The choice of materials is integral to the architectural vision. Norway spruce not only serves as the primary framing material but also contributes to the overall sensory experience of warmth and scale. Galvanized steel reinforces durability, ensuring the structure can withstand urban conditions. Incorporating glass elements adds transparency without compromising privacy, inviting passersby to engage with the space.

The Big Tiny Coffee House represents an evolving architectural approach that embraces community, sustainability, and functionality. For those interested in exploring the finer details and technical specifications, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, a deeper look into this project is encouraged.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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