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Curved Polycarbonate Structure Creating Inviting Community Space

Authors:
Anthony hans Widjaja, Florencia Wibisono, Marcello Giuberto, Gerda Callista
Curved Polycarbonate Structure Creating Inviting Community Space

Project in-detail

A seamless combination of curved polycarbonate and recycled wood invites urban dwellers to engage in a cozy gathering space centered around the shared experience of coffee consumption.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved polycarbonate structure maximizes light while minimizing energy use.
02
Recycled wood integrates sustainability into the building's base.
03
Intimate ceiling variations enhance user experience and comfort.
04
Workspace design optimizes barista efficiency for high-volume service.
05
Compact footprint encourages urban interaction and community engagement.
The architectural project is a compact coffee house designed to serve as a community gathering point within an urban environment. It focuses on the cultural and social significance of coffee consumption, creating a space that encourages interaction among patrons. The design is inspired by the simple shape of a coffee drop, reflecting the ritual associated with coffee drinking while providing a unique form to the structure.

The coffee house features a curved exterior, working against the backdrop of straight-edged urban architecture. This contrast not only distinguishes the building but also acts as an invitation to engage with the space. The overall design prioritizes functionality while maintaining an appealing visual aesthetic.

Unique Material and Construction Techniques

The project employs polycarbonate as the primary material, selected for its properties of translucency, durability, and sustainability. The use of polycarbonate plates and pipes allows natural light to permeate the building while ensuring resistance to weathering. This choice of material enhances the quality of light within the coffee house, creating a warm and inviting ambience. The structural design, utilizing interlocking polycarbonate components, is central to its stability and lightweight characteristics, which allows for an efficient assembly process.

This architectural design also utilizes recycled wood for its base, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability. By using existing materials, the project minimizes waste and aligns with contemporary best practices in architectural design. The integration of these materials reflects an intentional approach to create a responsible and environmentally conscious structure.

Functional Zoning and Layout

The interior layout is carefully planned to facilitate both customer experience and barista efficiency. Designated areas include a workspace for baristas, a seating area for customers, and storage solutions that promote an organized environment. The zoning of spaces is strategically differentiated through varying ceiling heights, with the workspace designed for ease of movement and the customer area crafted for comfort.

Efficiency in the layout not only enhances the operational flow but also creates a welcoming atmosphere that invites patrons to linger. This dual focus on function and user experience is key to the architectural identity of the coffee house.

The design incorporates dynamic spatial relationships, with the placement of windows and openings enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Customer movement is guided intuitively from the exterior to the interior, promoting interaction with the surrounding urban context.

For those interested in further details, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and additional design elements will provide greater insights into the thoughtful decisions behind this coffee house project. Engaging with these materials can enhance understanding of the architecture and its role in fostering social connections within public spaces.
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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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