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Dynamic Louvers and Sustainable Spruce Create an Adaptive Urban Coffee Experience

Authors:
Zeid Qaqish, Muhammad Abbas
Dynamic Louvers and Sustainable Spruce Create an Adaptive Urban Coffee Experience

Project in-detail

Operable plantation louvers and sustainably sourced spruce define an adaptable coffee house that enhances urban interaction and user engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Operable plantation louvers allow users to adjust light and airflow based on weather conditions.
02
Sustainably sourced spruce wood is utilized throughout, enhancing the building's environmental footprint.
03
The compact footprint promotes efficient operations while maximizing social interaction space.
04
Customizable seating arrangements support a variety of group sizes and events.
05
A bent A-frame design integrates seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape.
The Big Tiny Coffee House is an architectural project designed to create a compact, multifunctional coffee shop that fosters engagement between baristas and patrons. Located in a bustling urban area, the design emphasizes a seamless connection with the surrounding environment while focusing on the operational efficiency required for a contemporary café.

The architecture of the project integrates flexible boundaries and user-centric design elements. Operable facades are a signature feature, allowing the space to adapt to varying weather conditions and user needs. This design approach ensures that the coffee house remains functional and inviting throughout all seasons, contributing to an enjoyable visitor experience.

Unique Engagement with the Environment

One of the standout aspects of the Big Tiny Coffee House is its commitment to adaptability. The incorporation of vertical plantation louvers allows for dynamic control over light, airflow, and visibility. These louvers can be manually adjusted, giving both employees and customers the facility to create an optimal environment. This design not only enhances comfort but also promotes a strong connection with the outside world, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Another distinguishing feature of the project is its focus on modularity. The layout is designed to be flexible, with movable components that enable different configurations for seating and service, accommodating various group sizes and events. This modular design makes the coffee house a versatile social hub for the community.

Architecture and Materiality

The material selection plays a critical role in defining the Big Tiny Coffee House's character. Spruce wood is used prominently in both the facade and interior, contributing warmth and an inviting atmosphere. The use of waterproof isolation materials in the roof ensures structural integrity against environmental elements. Aluminum frames are incorporated for their modern aesthetic and durable characteristics, providing stability and a clean appearance. Steel components reinforce the building's structural framework, ensuring safety and longevity within the urban context.

The detailed architectural plans and sections reveal the thoughtful integration of these materials, showcasing how they collaborate to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Each component is meticulously chosen to align with the overall design philosophy, highlighting a commitment to quality and sustainability.

The Big Tiny Coffee House represents a progressive approach to architectural design in the realm of commercial spaces. Its focus on user interaction, environmental responsiveness, and flexible designs sets it apart from typical coffee shop projects. The innovative use of space and materials demonstrates a forward-thinking philosophy that addresses the evolving needs of urban public spaces.

For those looking to gain a deeper understanding of this architectural project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs will provide greater insight into how these elements coalesce to create an engaging and functional coffee house.
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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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