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Rotating Solar Silo and Charred Wood Facade in a Compact Urban Coffee Kiosk

Authors:
Steven Patrick, Skerdi Brahimaj
Rotating Solar Silo and Charred Wood Facade in a Compact Urban Coffee Kiosk
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A compact urban coffee kiosk integrates a rotating solar silo and charred wood facade, optimizing energy efficiency and functionality in a dynamic public space.
5 key facts about this project
01
A rotating solar silo captures sunlight to enhance energy efficiency.
02
The charred wood facade provides natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Expandable wings allow for increased usability in varying weather conditions.
04
The design incorporates urban integration to foster community interaction.
05
Compact footprint maximizes functionality in limited outdoor spaces.

## Overview

Located within an urban setting, the design of the coffee cherry kiosk draws inspiration from the natural form of a coffee cherry, aiming to create a functional space for serving coffee while promoting sustainability. The project integrates natural concepts through adaptive functionalities, allowing it to respond effectively to varying environmental conditions. This innovative kiosk prioritizes a harmonious relationship between architecture and nature.

## Structural Configuration

The design features a structural form akin to a drum with an upper dome, reflecting the coffee cherry's shape. An outer protective layer combines textured wood finishes and flexible elements, enabling the kiosk to blend into diverse urban contexts. A notable feature is the smart solar silo located at the top, which functions as both a sun-tracking solar energy collector and a protective cover for accessory storage. This element enhances the sustainability of the kiosk while adding a distinctive architectural focal point.

## User-Oriented Design Features

Internally, the kiosk is organized for optimal functionality. The "heart" component includes essential facilities such as coffee brewing equipment, a clean water tank, and a gray water storage area. The layout is designed to facilitate interaction between staff and customers, with a service counter positioned for easy access and efficiently placed storage to streamline operations. Additionally, features such as rotatable solar panels and expandable wings demonstrate adaptability, allowing the kiosk to maximize energy capture and transform its operational capacity based on weather conditions.

The materials selected for construction emphasize sustainability, including sustainably sourced wood plank siding, recyclable aluminum, stainless steel for hygiene, and durable manufactured stone. Such choices not only contribute to the environmental intention of the project but also enhance its functional and aesthetic qualities.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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