Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Cross-Laminated Timber Structure with Integrated Service Openings in Urban Setting

Authors:
Emmanuelle Bidet, Marie Porracchia
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure with Integrated Service Openings in Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and flexible sliding panels, the design creates a compact space for coffee and gelato service that adapts to urban contexts while prioritizing user experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates sliding panels that adjust for service and weather conditions.
03
Features integrated benches that optimize space for user interaction.
04
Includes a rainwater collection system for enhanced eco-friendliness.
05
Designed for easy relocation within urban environments without disassembly.

### Overview

Located in Copenhagen, Denmark, the Kremm Coffee & Gelato project employs a minimalist design rooted in Scandinavian architecture, addressing urban food and beverage service needs with greater sustainability and user engagement. The compact structure serves as a functional prototype, intended for potential replication in various metropolitan settings across Europe.

### Spatial Configuration and Adaptability

The design strategy emphasizes portability and multifunctionality. Constructed primarily with cross-laminated timber (CLT) and equipped with a towing system, the coffee house can be relocated without disassembly. Internally, the layout optimizes workflow for baristas, integrating dedicated storage for supplies and clearly defined areas for clean and grey water management. Two designated openings enhance interaction between staff and customers, supported by adjustable sliding panels that adapt to the weather, allowing for both indoor and outdoor experiences.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette is central to the project's sustainability objectives. Key components include:

- **Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)**: The main structural element, offering durability and thermal efficiency with an 80 mm thickness, while contributing to a warm aesthetic.

- **Oak Timber Cladding**: A 40 mm thick exterior layer that provides weather resistance and enhances visual appeal.

- **Sliding Closing Panels**: At 30 mm thick, these panels maintain an effective service flow and interaction with patrons.

- **Lime-Hemp Corrective Coating**: At 10 mm, this environmentally friendly layer aids thermal performance.

- **Rainwater Salvage System**: This feature captures rainwater for improved resource management, aligning with the project's ecological commitments.

Overall, the Kremm Coffee & Gelato project presents a pragmatic approach to urban architecture, balancing user needs with sustainable practices and contextual relevance.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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