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Spherical Steel Structure with Moisture Barrier for Efficient Coffee Production

Author:
Andrew Liles
Spherical Steel Structure with Moisture Barrier for Efficient Coffee Production

Project in-detail

A spherical steel structure equipped with moisture barriers redefines coffee production efficiency while integrating sustainable practices and water management systems.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical shape enhances roasting efficiency.
02
Integrated gray water storage supports sustainability.
03
Steel shell provides durability in coastal environments.
04
Radial layout optimizes barista workflow.
05
Moisture barriers protect against climatic elements.

The mochahedron represents a new direction in coffee production architecture, set in a coastal environment ideal for cultivating coffee beans. Its spherical shape emphasizes efficiency and functionality. This structure serves as a workspace where one barista can oversee the entire coffee-making process. Inspired by maritime practices and the cultural significance of coffee, particularly in Finland, the design draws on traditions while also addressing modern needs.

Structural Efficiency

The layout uses a radial design to promote effective workflows. The sphere allows coffee beans to move toward a central heat source as it rotates, which aids in even roasting. This careful design enhances consistency in coffee quality and introduces an efficient approach to production.

Material Integration

Materials within the design feature a strong steel shell that offers durability in the coastal setting. The moisture barrier insulation protects the interior from external elements, ensuring longevity. An industrial finish veneer aligns with the overall aesthetic, tying together functionality and visual appeal. These choices highlight a commitment to both practicality and environmental sensitivity.

Sustainable Design Elements

Water management is central to the mochahedron's design. Integrated systems for clean and gray water storage demonstrate a focus on sustainability. This independence in operation reduces the structure's ecological impact while aligning with modern practices. Such features reflect thoughtful consideration for resource management.

Innovative Form

The overall form incorporates principles of Archimedean solids, emphasizing precision in shape and stability. The layered construction method enhances structural integrity while enabling adaptability to various locations. This design balances function and aesthetics, presenting a model for future developments in food and beverage spaces.

At the core of the mochahedron, the harmonious blend of curves and geometric shapes invites both exploration and engagement with its purpose. The result is a thoughtful space where coffee culture can thrive, balanced with sustainable practices that support its operation.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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