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Timber Facade with Photovoltaic Energy in a Compact Coffee Service Unit

Authors:
Muhammad Zahir Suhaimi, Muhammad Asyiq Suhaimi
Timber Facade with Photovoltaic Energy in a Compact Coffee Service Unit

Project in-detail

Incorporating a photovoltaic system and a timber facade, the compact coffee cart enhances urban coffee service by providing an efficient and interactive space for baristas and customers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates photovoltaic panels for energy efficiency.
02
Designed with a lightweight steel frame for easy mobility.
03
Features foldable windows to enhance customer interaction.
04
Utilizes timber for the facade, connecting to coffee culture.
05
Compact layout optimizes workflow for baristas in urban settings.

The Coffee Cart is a mobile unit designed for urban areas, aimed at enhancing the experience of both baristas and customers. The structure focuses on efficient coffee preparation, showcasing the role of the barista in creating beverages. The design allows for a smooth workflow, guiding the process from taking orders to serving coffee within a compact and practical space.

Functional Design

The layout of the Coffee Cart is crafted for ease of use. Orders are taken at one window, while coffee is served at another. This setup reduces unnecessary movement, enabling the barista to work efficiently. The design makes the most of its small dimensions, ensuring that each task can be completed in a logical sequence.

Material Composition

A lightweight steel frame forms the backbone of the cart. This choice of material ensures strength while keeping the unit portable. The facade features timber, which adds warmth and connects the cart to the natural essence of coffee. The materials work together to create a welcoming environment for customers.

User Interaction

Interaction between baristas and customers is a key aspect of the design. Foldable windows promote direct communication, fostering a sense of community. Additionally, the retractable canvas roof allows for service in various weather conditions, maintaining comfort and accessibility for both baristas and patrons.

Sustainability Considerations

Incorporating photovoltaic panels reflects a thoughtful approach to sustainability. This energy-efficient feature supports the functioning of the cart while minimizing its environmental footprint. Such considerations show a commitment to operating responsibly within urban settings.

The Coffee Cart features practical design elements, such as easy-to-use windows and a combined use of durable materials, creating a functional space that promotes the art of coffee making.

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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

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