If you like the idea of getting in touch with nature but want to do so without sacrificing your home comforts, then the Cocoon, by the Autonomous Tent Company, may be of interest. The semi-permanent dwelling certainly looks roomy inside, and includes a bathroom with shower and a kitchenette. It can be outfitted to run off-the-grid and is engineered to stand up to some pretty rough weather.
The Autonomous Tent Company, which includes well-known Californian architect Harry Gesner, offers a couple of models: the Cocoon and a larger version called the Tipi, which includes two bedrooms and can serve as a hunting lodge.
The Cocoon model pictured is installed on California's Big Sur coastline, in luxury glamping retreat Treebones Resort. If you want to buy your own, it will set you back around US$100,000, which seems expensive, though there's a bit more to it than your average tent.
Indeed, the Cocoon isn't really a tent at all in the usual sense, but a semi-permanent structure that can be raised in a few days. It comprises an exterior shell of hard-wearing translucent fabric and is supported by a frame made from steel or aluminum tubes, or laminated beams. An additional layer of insulation is available to those in particularly warm or cold climes.
The Cocoon doesn't require a foundation but rests atop a wooden deck and, according to the firm, is rated as able to withstand hurricane-force winds of up to 90 mph (144 km/h) and heavy snow loads.
Inside, the available floorspace measures between 500 - 700 sq ft (46 - 65 sq m), which is split between a living area, bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom with shower and toilet. The layout is flexible though, and the firm also says the Cocoon can serve as guest suite, yoga studio, and office space.
Off-grid technology is optional and includes a solar power array, a solar hot water array, composting toilet, grey water system, and a wood-burning stove.
Source: Autonomous Tent Company