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Transparent Bioplastic Façade and Recycled Wood Form a Sustainable Coffee Experience

Authors:
Federico Lerner, Mercedes Mena
Transparent Bioplastic Façade and Recycled Wood Form a Sustainable Coffee Experience

Project in-detail

A façade crafted from bioplastic and a structure built with recycled wood invite urban dwellers to engage with the coffee-making process in a kiosk that promotes sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The façade is constructed from innovative bioplastic, allowing for ample natural light while maintaining durability.
02
Recycled wood serves as the primary building material, emphasizing sustainability in a modern design.
03
Interactive elements within the kiosk enable customers to engage with the coffee-making process firsthand.
04
Coffee grounds are incorporated into the design, promoting educational awareness about coffee sourcing and waste.
05
The modular assembly allows for easy reconfiguration and adaptation to various urban settings.
The Coffee Lighthouse is an innovative architectural project designed as a coffee kiosk that marries functionality with sustainability. This structure not only serves as a place for coffee preparation and consumption but also stands as an emblem of environmental consciousness and community engagement within an urban landscape. The kiosk's design speaks to the growing emphasis on sustainable design practices in architecture, making it a relevant example for future projects.

The Coffee Lighthouse reinforces the importance of transparency in the consumer experience. With a thoughtful layout that allows patrons to observe the coffee-making process, it fosters a deeper connection to the beverage being served. This design invites exploration and interaction, creating a unique atmosphere where the process of brewing coffee is integrated into the overall experience of visiting the kiosk.

The architectural design consists of a series of modular components that can be easily assembled or reconfigured, showcasing a flexibility that is often missing in traditional kiosks. By utilizing recycled wood as the main material, the project emphasizes sustainability while also providing a warm and inviting aesthetic. The use of bioplastic for the kiosk's façades further enhances its environmental credentials. This transparent material allows natural light to permeate the interior, creating a bright and welcoming space for customers. At the same time, coffee grounds are used both as a functional component and as an educational tool, allowing patrons to understand the impact of their choices in terms of coffee consumption and waste.

Important design features include interactive work surfaces for baristas and strategically placed coffee containers that not only facilitate operational efficiency but also serve as visual elements that draw in customers. The design incorporates clever storage solutions that maintain a clean and organized appearance, enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the kiosk. The integration of water tanks within the structure reflects a sophisticated approach to essential operational needs without compromising the design integrity.

Lighting plays a significant role in the overall experience of the Coffee Lighthouse. Perforated elements allow light to filter through the structure, creating dynamic shadow patterns and inviting customers to engage with the space at various times of the day. During daylight, the kiosk becomes a bright hub that draws people in, while the illumination after sunset transforms it into a beacon that enhances its visibility and inviting nature.

One of the unique aspects of the Coffee Lighthouse is its dedication to educating consumers about the coffee-making process and the environmental impacts associated with it. This educational focus is a valuable element in promoting greater awareness of sustainability within the coffee industry. As patrons learn about coffee origins and brewing methods, they become more mindful consumers, aligning their choices with broader ecological considerations.

The architectural decisions involved in the Coffee Lighthouse reflect a broader trend in contemporary design that prioritizes environmental sustainability while enhancing social interaction. By creating a space that is both functional and educational, the project challenges traditional notions of coffee consumption and invites a more engaged relationship between consumers and the product.

For those interested in understanding the intricate details of the Coffee Lighthouse, including architectural plans, sections, and design features, further exploration of the project presentation will provide additional insights into its thoughtful design and construction process. By delving deeper into its architectural ideas, one can appreciate how this kiosk serves not just as a place for coffee, but as a catalyst for community interaction and sustainability in urban environments.
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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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