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Solar-Powered Shipping Container Featuring Reclaimed Wood and Green Roof Integration for Urban Coffee Service

Authors:
Milda Pittman, Paula Cimionatto
Solar-Powered Shipping Container Featuring Reclaimed Wood and Green Roof Integration for Urban Coffee Service

Project in-detail

The integration of solar power and reclaimed wood within a portable shipping container redefines urban coffee service through sustainable design while offering a flexible and inviting space for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The coffee house incorporates solar panels for off-grid energy efficiency.
02
Reclaimed wood is used extensively for cladding, enhancing sustainability.
03
A green roof is integrated to promote biodiversity and urban greenery.
04
The compact footprint allows easy transport and setup at various locations.
05
Large glass windows foster interaction between baristas and customers.
The KREMM Coffee House project is an innovative approach to mobile coffee retail, utilizing a shipping container as its primary structure. This design not only emphasizes functionality but also addresses sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Located in urban environments, the coffee house aims to engage with communities while providing high-quality beverage services in a compact and maneuverable format. The overall layout is engineered to support efficient workflow and enhance customer interaction, making it an effective solution for modern coffee service.

Sustainability and Mobility as Design Principles

A critical feature of the KREMM Coffee House is its commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates solar panels that contribute to its energy needs, minimizing reliance on external power sources. This off-grid capability allows the coffee house to operate in various locations without disruption. Additional elements, such as reclaimed wood for cladding and green roof planters, are carefully selected to promote environmental awareness and contribute to urban greenery.

The mobility of the structure is achieved through its shipping container origin, allowing for easy transport and setup at different locations. This flexibility enables the coffee house to participate in community events, festivals, and markets, expanding its reach and enhancing the customer experience. The thoughtful integration of functional components, like under-counter refrigeration and an efficient heating system, ensures that high-quality service can be maintained regardless of the setting.

Design Elements and Spatial Organization

The architectural layout of the KREMM Coffee House is both strategic and purposeful. The center of the design is the serving counter, which facilitates direct interaction with customers, fostering a sense of connection. The efficient use of vertical space through shelving and storage solutions optimizes the limited footprint, ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies are accessible without overcrowding.

The interior uses a combination of white subway tiles and a neutral color palette to maintain a clean aesthetic, while the warm tones of the reclaimed wood add character to the space. The integration of large glass windows provides transparency and visibility, inviting passersby to engage with the coffee house experience. The overall design promotes an inviting atmosphere, contrasting with the industrial exterior, while maintaining functionality for staff and patrons alike.

The KREMM Coffee House project embodies a modern solution to urban coffee retail, merging sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic simplicity. For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and designs that contribute to this unique project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more details. Engaging with the architectural ideas behind this design can provide valuable insights into the innovative methods employed in contemporary mobile architecture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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