Cocoon: A Robust Semi-Permanent Tent That Makes Camping A Luxurious Affair

Adventure travelers often have to forgo comfort when stepping into the wilderness, but it doesn’t always have to be this way. Colorado-based Autonomous Tent Company lets you immerse yourself in nature without having to sacrifice the modern luxuries we have all grown used to. The Cocoon, in particular, is a spectacular semi-permanent structure that makes off-the-grid vacationing grand, thanks to an innovative design that integrates a kitchenette, a bathroom with shower and a living area all within a tiny space.

The team, which includes California-based architect Harry Gesner, has developed a number of different models, each boasting a robust structure that can withstand extreme weather. The Tipi, for instance, is a larger version of the Cocoon, featuring two spacious bedrooms. According to the designers, it can even serve as a hunting lodge. Priced at $100,000, the Cocoon has already been erected on the Big Sur coastline in California, as part of the opulent glamping Treebones Resort.

Installation of this semi-permanent dwelling takes only a few days, and doesn’t require an actual foundation. Instead, it can be secured onto a specially-built wooden deck. Amazingly, the structure can stand up against violent winds with speeds of up to 90 mph (or 144 km/h) as well as heavy snowfall. This is primarily because of its hard exterior made using translucent fabric. For added strength, the tent relies on a stable framework of steel or aluminum, or in some cases laminated beams.

A thick layer of insulation shelters the occupants from the harsh weather outside. Measuring around 500 to 700 sq ft (approx. 46 to 65 sq m) in area, the Cocoon houses a kitchen, bedroom, living space and a bathroom complete with shower and toilet. As pointed out by the developers, its flexible floor plan allows the structure to be used as an office space, a guest suite and even a yoga studio.

All of the models come with the option of integrating a variety of off-the-grid technologies, such as a photovoltaic array for electricity, a solar-powered water heating system, a special wood-burning stove, a composting toilet and finally a built-in waste water system.