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Modular Coffee Hub with Sheltered Seating for Transit Spaces

Author:
Reimi Hayakawa
Modular Coffee Hub with Sheltered Seating for Transit Spaces

Project in-detail

Connected modular units create a welcoming coffee stop that enhances transit experiences in Helsinki, blending functionality with informal social spaces for commuters.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for flexible configuration based on commuter traffic.
02
Circular bench design promotes informal gatherings and social interaction.
03
Compact layout maximizes efficiency in limited urban space.
04
Sheltered seating encourages year-round use in varying weather conditions.
05
Direct connection to tram infrastructure enhances accessibility for users.

The Tram Coffee Stop project offers a fresh look at how urban coffee culture can be integrated into public transport systems in Northern European cities, particularly Helsinki. The design creates a space where people can take a break from their daily commute, enjoy a cup of coffee, and connect with their surroundings. The concept centers on blending usability with a sense of community, making the coffee stop an attractive option for both locals and visitors.

Coffee Stand Unit
The Coffee Stand Unit is the central component of the design. It is built to serve customers quickly and efficiently while providing a comfortable place to relax. The layout includes a serving counter, a bench for sitting, and a designated area for sales. This setup contributes to a pleasant atmosphere, allowing commuters to enjoy their drinks in a cozy setting. The compact design meets the needs of busy individuals, encouraging them to linger and socialize.

The Other Unit
The Other Unit is designed to complement the Coffee Stand Unit. It features a circular bench and a table, topped with a roof for additional shelter. This area invites casual interactions among patrons, making it an ideal spot for relaxed conversations. The roof protects visitors from rain or sun, promoting use during different seasons. By connecting these two units, the design strengthens the notion of community, creating a gathering place amid the transit environment.

Modularity and Adaptability
A notable aspect of the design is its modularity, allowing different units to connect easily. This flexibility means that the coffee stop can adapt to various urban settings, reflecting local traffic patterns and community needs. The interlinked units mirror the connections found in tram systems, reinforcing the idea that public spaces should encourage movement and engagement. This adaptability ensures that the coffee stop can respond to changes over time, serving different neighborhoods and their varying user flows.

Design Details
The overall design follows a minimalist approach, ensuring that the Tram Coffee Stop integrates well with the surrounding architecture. While specific materials are not mentioned, it is clear that finishes would be selected for durability, suitable for a high-traffic area. The simplicity of the design allows it to stand out while still feeling at home in the urban landscape. This thoughtful composition makes the coffee stop a functional addition to public transport, enriching the daily lives of those who pass through.

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

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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

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