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Circular Structure Featuring Insulating Panels and Plexiglass Elements for Community Engagement

Authors:
Luca Gebhard, Pantea Rezvanipour, Valeria Sapigni, Madina Akkubekova
Circular Structure Featuring Insulating Panels and Plexiglass Elements for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

With a circular form that emphasizes layers of insulating panels and transparent plexiglass, the design fosters community interaction while providing a warm, inviting space to enjoy coffee in the heart of a northern urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The circular design maximizes natural light while minimizing the structure's environmental footprint.
02
Transparent plexiglass elements offer a view into the coffee-making process, enhancing customer engagement.
03
High-performance insulating panels ensure thermal comfort year-round in a northern climate.
04
The use of layered materials creates a visually dynamic facade that encourages community interaction.
05
Solar panels on the roof contribute to the building's energy efficiency and sustainability goals.
Kafeando is a thoughtfully designed coffee house that emerges as a focal point within its northern European context. With its inviting round structure and carefully considered details, the project encapsulates the essence of local café culture while addressing the practical needs of its users. At its core, Kafeando represents more than just a place to purchase coffee; it embodies a communal experience that enhances the daily ritual of enjoying a warm beverage, particularly in the chill of northern mornings.

The architectural design of Kafeando draws upon the intimate relationship between people and their coffee. By placing emphasis on a series of stacked elements, reminiscent of coffee cups, the design not only serves function but also serves to engage patrons in a familiar yet innovative manner. The central space functions as a service counter that is designed for efficiency, allowing staff to interact seamlessly with customers, thus facilitating a quick and enjoyable experience.

The materials chosen for Kafeando reflect careful consideration of both aesthetic and functional values. High-performance insulating sandwich panels provide a durable outer skin, ensuring thermal comfort as temperatures dip. The counter window is framed with curved plexiglass, allowing patrons to witness the coffee-making process and enhancing transparency. This not only builds trust but also enriches the customer experience, turning coffee preparation into a ritualistic performance. The integration of rounded metal plates within the design contributes to both structure and style, while strategically placed LED lights create a vibrant atmosphere, adding to the welcoming presence of the coffee house.

Energy efficiency is another hallmark of the Kafeando project. By incorporating solar panels on the roof and utilizing low voltage photovoltaic paint, the design embraces sustainability, tapping into renewable energy sources to reduce operational costs. This attention to environmental impact aligns Kafeando with contemporary architectural trends that prioritize ecological responsibility.

The spatial configuration of Kafeando encourages social interaction, with a design that accommodates both standing and seated customers. By facilitating movement and engagement, the layout invites a sense of community, making it a popular gathering spot for locals. The adaptability of the round structure allows for an organic flow of people, regardless of the time of day, enhancing its role as a hub for connection.

Moreover, the design integrates harmoniously with its surroundings, enhancing the site's character and contributing to the urban landscape. The external elements of Kafeando interact with local weather conditions, such as fog and light, creating a sensory experience that engages visitors as they approach. This interaction with the environment underscores the architectural idea that a building can and should respond to its context.

The unique design approach of Kafeando is evident in its thoughtful layering, material selection, and energy-conscious strategies. These elements combine to produce a structure that is not only visually appealing but is functional in serving the needs of its users. The decisions made throughout the design phase reflect a commitment to improving everyday interactions, viewed through the lens of contemporary architectural practices.

For those interested in delving deeper into the aspirations and intricacies of Kafeando, exploring the project presentation offers valuable insights. The architectural plans, sections, and various design elements enrich the understanding of this project, showcasing an innovative approach to coffee shop design that is both functional and contextually rich. Through this exploration, one can appreciate the distinct architectural ideas that drive Kafeando, illustrating how thoughtful design can enhance the simple act of enjoying a cup of coffee.
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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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