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Spruce Wood Panels Define Modular Kiosk for Urban Engagement

Authors:
Ilsa Khan, Emily Liu
Spruce Wood Panels Define Modular Kiosk for Urban Engagement

Project in-detail

The modular design of interchangeable spruce wood panels facilitates a flexible coffee kiosk that promotes urban engagement while providing a comfortable space for patrons to enjoy high-quality coffee.
5 key facts about this project
01
Interchangeable panel system allows for adaptable enclosure options.
02
The octagonal shape maximizes pedestrian engagement and space efficiency.
03
Transparent roof enhances natural light and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
04
Efficient service counter layout supports quick customer transactions.
05
Constructed using sustainably sourced spruce wood for environmental responsibility.

The Octa Coffee House is a modern addition to urban coffee culture, designed to engage people in an active city environment. Located in a bustling area, it offers a welcoming space for both locals and tourists to enjoy thoughtfully prepared coffee. The design concept revolves around an octagonal shape that provides both functionality and aesthetic appeal, inviting interaction and creating a new kind of coffee experience.

Modular Structure

The octagonal shape allows efficient use of space while maintaining a small environmental footprint. This unique design encourages easy flow for pedestrians, drawing them in with its inviting form. The structure consists of eight panels, where four outer panels remain fixed and four inner panels can move along tracks. This flexibility enables the coffee house to transition between an enclosed space and a more open setting. The ability to adjust the panels enhances airflow and visibility, creating an inviting atmosphere for customers passing by.

Interior Layout

Inside, the coffee house features a well-organized counter that is divided into three functional areas: one for ordering, another for pick-up, and a third for condiments and snacks. This layout supports an efficient workflow for baristas and addresses the demand for quick service typical in coffee culture. The design prioritizes comfort and ease of interaction, allowing patrons to engage with the environment and the staff. This thoughtful setup enhances the overall experience of enjoying coffee in the space.

Light and Atmosphere

Natural light plays a crucial role in creating a pleasant atmosphere within the Octa Coffee House. A transparent roof allows sunlight to fill the interior, making the space feel open and warm. This use of daylight contributes to a positive working environment for baristas and creates an enjoyable experience for customers. The way light interacts with the interior design underscores the project’s focus on an inviting setting.

Material Choice

The choice of materials reflects an emphasis on sustainability. The panel system uses spruce wood, which provides structural support while contributing a warm aesthetic. This choice not only enhances the visual appeal but also aligns with environmentally conscious design principles. The use of spruce wood helps the coffee house connect to its surroundings while maintaining functionality.

The Octa Coffee House effectively combines modern design with practical needs. With its flexible panels, organized interior, and ample natural light, it fosters a welcoming environment for all who enter. The careful attention to both form and function defines this unique coffee house experience.

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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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