Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

MDF and Galvanized Elegance in a Compact Coffee Service Space

Authors:
Ruben Alvarez, Vivian Sánchez-boniche, Elizabeth Segura hernandez
MDF and Galvanized Elegance in a Compact Coffee Service Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with MDF and smooth galvanized elements, the compact layout optimally supports high-efficiency coffee service while ensuring easy access to essential equipment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rectangular tubes provide structural support, enhancing stability and durability.
02
A low potable water tube integrated into the design ensures efficient water access.
03
The work area features an MDF waterproof module for resilience in a high-use environment.
04
Gray water tanks emphasize resource management and sustainability in operations.
05
Fixed panel rails accommodate essential coffee equipment for optimized workflow.

The design centers around a modular framework made for efficient coffee preparation and service. Located in a lively environment, it combines functionality with a structured layout that enhances the experiences of both baristas and customers. The overall concept focuses on creating effective workflows, allowing easy access to the essential tools and equipment needed for producing high-quality beverages.

Structural Elements

Rectangular tubes form the main support for the design. These tubes measure 2" x 4" x 2.22mm and 2" x 3" x 2.22mm, bringing the necessary strength to the structure. A low potable water tube, 4" in diameter, is incorporated to improve functionality, ensuring that water access is convenient throughout various work areas.

Functional Layout

Fixed panel rails, each 10cm thick, serve as strong surfaces to mount essential coffee equipment. Key pieces include a professional coffee machine from Rancilio, strategically placed coffee dispensers, and a sink. The dispensers measure 15cm x 70cm, while the sink measures 40cm x 40cm. This size allows for practical use during busy service periods, ensuring that everything needed is within reach.

Operational Considerations

The architectural plan is laid out at a scale of 1/25, illustrating a careful arrangement of elements. A water tank with a capacity of 270L is part of the setup, addressing the demands of coffee preparation. Gray water tanks, each with a capacity of 35L, highlight resource management and sustainability in design, making efficient use of water during operations.

Design Detailing

The workspace includes an MDF waterproof module coated with automotive paint, making it durable against the demands of a busy environment. Smooth galvanized sheets (#28) are used for the front elevation, contributing to the design’s overall appearance and structural strength. An access door at the work area level makes it easier to maintain equipment and enhances the layout, supporting a well-organized environment for quality coffee service.

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