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Colorful Acrylic Panels and Transparent Glass Transforming Urban Coffee Spaces

Authors:
Lei Bao, Yiren Mao
Colorful Acrylic Panels and Transparent Glass Transforming Urban Coffee Spaces

Project in-detail

A vibrant interplay of colorful acrylic panels and transparent glass redefines urban coffee culture by creating an engaging space that promotes social interaction and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes colorful acrylic panels to enhance natural light and create a vibrant atmosphere.
02
Features transparent glass partitions that foster a connection between the interior and exterior.
03
Modular design allows for flexible reconfiguration based on site and user needs.
04
Incorporates distinct functional zones for ordering, preparation, and social interaction.
05
Emphasizes user-centered design by promoting community engagement and connections.
The "Coffee Wall in Nordic Countries" is an architectural project designed to enhance the coffee service experience within urban environments. This innovative structure serves as a modular station dedicated to coffee preparation and consumption, embodying critical elements of contemporary urban design. Situated in a Nordic context, the project reflects local cultural practices surrounding coffee breaks while promoting community engagement.

The design features an engaging layout comprised of distinct functional zones—each serving a specific purpose, including ordering, preparation, and social interaction. Transparency plays a key role in the design, with glass partitions allowing visibility of activities within the space, helping to foster a connection between users and the surrounding urban environment. The project integrates various materials, such as wood for warmth and structure, glass for openness, and colorful acrylic for visual stimulation, creating a vibrant yet functional area for patrons.

Flexible and modular in nature, the "Coffee Wall" allows for customization based on the site and user requirements, making it suitable for diverse urban settings. The use of vibrant colors enhances the atmosphere and encourages social interaction, contributing to a lively and inviting environment.

Materials and Construction Techniques

The project's material palette consists of several key elements: glass, wood, metals, and colorful acrylic. Glass is used extensively in the modular storage units, fostering a sense of openness while allowing natural light to traverse the space. Wood is employed for structural support and surfaces, aligning with Nordic design principles emphasizing organic materials. Metals provide durability in frameworks, ensuring the structure’s longevity, while colorful acrylic creates an engaging visual experience through light interaction and color play.

Strategically designed lighting elevates the user experience further, with layered approaches including ambient and task lighting. This design consideration helps achieve a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal.

User Interaction and Community Engagement

This architectural project emphasizes user-centered design, encouraging interaction among patrons while they wait, order, and enjoy their coffee. The arrangement of spaces is deliberate, facilitating movement and ensuring easy access to services. By cultivating a welcoming atmosphere, it transforms the act of coffee consumption into a communal activity rather than a solitary one.

Distinctive attributes of the project include its ability to adapt to different environments and its cultural resonance with Nordic coffee traditions. The design encapsulates the importance of social connections within urban life, aligning with the values of community and togetherness that characterize Nordic culture.

For those interested in exploring the specific architectural plans, sections, and details of this project, further information is available for review. Delve into the unique architectural ideas that shape this innovative coffee service area, revealing insights into its design and overall functionality.
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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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