Glamping Pod

2021, Concept Competition Entry

Architecture

 

glamping 
a form of camping involving accommodation and facilities more luxurious than those associated with traditional camping.

-Oxford Dictionary Definition

A small getaway or vacation is often enough to satisfy the need for refreshment yearned by urban dwellers A long stay away from urban lifestyle is often uncomfortable COVID 19 has compelled people to self isolate which  has led to more city dwellers to seek a change from dreary city scenery to natural landscapes ..“ is a novel, modern day solution to mediate the amenity rich urban lifestyle in a setting of wilderness. The Glamping Pod is designed with a minimalist aesthetic in order to minimize visual clutter and truly highlight the outdoors. The defined circulation and centralized amenities provide the occupants ample personal space,
considering they may isolate in this environment for a long duration. The simple geometry works in city as well as wilderness surroundings. The simple, opaque linear block of the superstructure has been punctuated with glass in the common areas. The experience between these opaque and transparent spaces is that of compression and release, to create a rich sensory environment. 

A contextual study of the culture and lifestyle of India was carried out prior to design. Food plays a central role in community and private interactions. Therefore the kitchen, dining and living areas are the focus of the house, around which the rest of the amenities revolve. Patterns found in Indian embroidery and weaving are highly symmetrical and geometrical with orthogonal lines and some 45 degree branches. This inspired the angular placement of the Sauna to contrast the orthogonal geometry of the house.

CLIMATE STRATEGY
Glazing has been maximized in common areas and southern facades to incorporate passive solar heat gain and natural daylighting. The largely flat roof configuration allows for roof top solar panels to generate renewable energy on site. The kitchen and appliances produce a lot of heat, therefore they are located in the center of the building to keep the core warm and reduce overall energy dependency during winter. During summer, the pod can be vented easily to release heat. The SIP Panel construction is clad with a rainscreen of Acetylated wood for additional weather protection and insulation. The house stands on “ shaped columns that can be adjusted in height to suit any topography.