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Reflective PVC Balloon Structure Enhancing Urban Coffee Experience

Author:
Toshiki Hirano
Reflective PVC Balloon Structure Enhancing Urban Coffee Experience

Project in-detail

A floating balloon structure crafted from reflective PVC invites urban dwellers to engage in a sensory coffee experience, combining modular design with sustainable materials for a functional gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Floating balloon structure made from reflective PVC enhances visual appeal and interaction.
02
Utilizes helium to achieve a lightweight, elevated design that attracts attention.
03
Modular layout allows for flexible configurations based on site conditions and user needs.
04
Incorporates nylon cables inspired by traditional sunshade mechanisms for structural support.
05
Features energy-efficient LED lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere during evening hours.

### Overview

The design for the mobile coffee kiosk "Puff..." responds to the Big Tiny Coffee House Challenge, aiming to create a functional space that adapts to various urban environments. This project emphasizes community engagement and sensory interaction, intending to enhance the experience of coffee preparation and consumption. The kiosk’s structure fosters a playful aesthetic while maintaining practical service capabilities.

### Spatial and Structural Innovation

The kiosk features a distinctive floating balloon element, designed to evoke imagery of a coffee bean inflated with helium. Its reflective aluminum vapor-deposited coating creates dynamic visual interactions with light and weather conditions, allowing the kiosk to harmonize with its surroundings. Below the balloon, the kiosk encompasses modular components that can be rearranged based on site-specific requirements, incorporating essential amenities such as espresso machines and storage solutions tailored for efficient workflow.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A thoughtfully curated selection of materials supports the kiosk's aesthetic and functional goals. Aluminum vapor-deposited PVC film provides lightweight reflectivity, while a helium gas lift enhances the balloon feature. The use of nylon cable adds visual fluidity, echoing traditional Japanese sunshade designs. Larch plywood is utilized in countertops for its warmth and durability, alongside carbon fiber and stainless steel wire that lend strength and stability to the structure. Moreover, lightweight options such as ETFE film, corrugated polycarbonate, and steel plate enhance structural integrity while keeping energy consumption minimal, aligning with sustainable practices in modern architecture.

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

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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

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