The Alpine Capsule by designer Ross Lovegrove will be constructed this month high in the Italian Alps. The futuristic orb, which looks like a giant drop of mercury, is coated in a one-way mirrored finish to allow inhabitants to see out without letting outsiders see in.
Apparently the shiny pod is "completely energy independent, using solar photovoltaic cells and vertical wind turbines," according to Been-Seen. They say you will be able to spend the night, not the entire winter, in The Alpine Capsule by 2010.
They call it a ‘living unit,’ but realistically, the 8m wide abode seems better suited for a long winter’s nap.
Human Hibernation Pods
‘The Alpine Capsule' Mimics a Giant Drop of Mercury
Trend Themes
1. Energy Independent Living - The Alpine Capsule demonstrates the trend of creating living spaces that are completely independent from traditional energy sources like solar and wind power.
2. Futuristic Architecture - The design of the Alpine Capsule showcases the trend of creating unique and visually striking structures that challenge traditional architectural norms.
3. Privacy and Transparency - The one-way mirrored finish of the Alpine Capsule highlights the trend of creating spaces that offer privacy from the outside while allowing occupants to see and connect with the surrounding environment.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - The development of energy independent living spaces opens up opportunities for the renewable energy industry to provide innovative solutions for sustainable living.
2. Architecture and Design - The futuristic and unconventional design of the Alpine Capsule presents disruptive innovation opportunities within the architecture and design industry to create novel living spaces.
3. Hospitality - The Alpine Capsule's potential for overnight stays suggests a new niche within the hospitality industry, where unique and immersive experiences can be offered to guests.