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Curvilinear Coffee Kiosk Made from Shipping Container and Glass in Urban Marketplace

Authors:
Chris Tsui, Louis Hung
Curvilinear Coffee Kiosk Made from Shipping Container and Glass in Urban Marketplace

Project in-detail

Constructed from a shipping container with expansive glass walls and curvilinear design, the coffee kiosk transforms urban space by inviting community engagement through transparent coffee-making and educational experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a shipping container to provide a mobile, adaptable coffee experience.
02
Features large glass panels that promote transparency in the coffee-making process.
03
Incorporates curvilinear design elements to soften the traditional container aesthetic.
04
Includes a dedicated roasting area that facilitates customer education on coffee.
05
Emphasizes community engagement through its inviting layout and open design.
The KREMM POD represents a contemporary approach to architectural design, focusing on the fusion of functionality and interaction in the realm of specialty coffee. Designed as a modern coffee kiosk, this project is strategically situated in Trondheim Market Square, Norway, a bustling locale that serves as a hub for community engagement. The design not only addresses the practical needs of a coffee retail space but also invites curiosity and participation from passersby, making it a vital element of the urban fabric.

At its core, the KREMM POD is intended to provide a distinctive coffee experience that highlights the entire brewing process—from the roasting of beans to the crafting of individual cups of coffee. The structure utilizes a shipping container as its primary form, which embodies functionality and sustainability. By using a modular design approach, the project minimizes waste and allows for efficient transport and deployment, ultimately enhancing its adaptability to various environments and events.

The architectural design of the KREMM POD emphasizes transparency and accessibility. Large glass walls invite onlookers to witness the intricacies of coffee preparation and brewing. This creates an engaging atmosphere where patrons can both visualize and participate in the process, transforming the act of coffee consumption into a more communal activity. The incorporation of rounded edges and curvilinear forms softens the industrial aesthetic of the shipping container, making the structure appear welcoming and approachable, rather than utilitarian.

Inside, the layout of the KREMM POD has been thoughtfully curated to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. The barista area is equipped with advanced coffee-making technology, allowing skilled professionals to prepare high-quality beverages while interacting closely with customers. A dedicated roasting section serves as both a functional workspace and an educational platform, showcasing the transformation of raw coffee beans to brewed drinks. Baristas can engage with patrons, share insights, and foster appreciation for the craft of coffee, making the KREMM POD a space for both enjoyment and learning.

Material selection plays a crucial role in communicating the project’s design intentions. Warm wood finishes adorn the interior, bringing a sense of comfort and familiarity, while durable stainless steel surfaces ensure longevity and ease of maintenance in a high-traffic environment. Accents of copper or brass add a touch of sophistication, enhancing the overall ambiance of the kiosk without overshadowing its primary purpose. This thoughtful mix of materials provides a modern yet inviting atmosphere that aligns with the contemporary coffee culture.

The KREMM POD champions the idea of adaptability not just in its physical form but also in its purpose. By being designed as a mobile unit, it can easily shift locations, responding to the needs of various events or markets while bringing quality coffee to diverse audiences. This flexibility opens opportunities for temporary installations in different urban contexts, establishing the KREMM POD as a dynamic architectural intervention.

What sets the KREMM POD apart is its commitment to transforming how coffee is perceived and consumed in public spaces. Unlike conventional coffee shops that often prioritize convenience, this project emphasizes a holistic experience that invites participation and education. By encouraging an understanding of the coffee-making process, the KREMM POD cultivates a community of informed consumers who appreciate the value of quality coffee.

To further explore the architectural design and intricacies of this project, including architectural plans and sections, one is encouraged to review the presentation materials available. These resources provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that shaped the KREMM POD and illustrate how design can contribute positively to both the marketplace and the broader community.
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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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