conceived by nice&wise, a design studio formerly known as nice architects, the ‘ecocapsule’ is a low-energy, mobile dwelling packed into a compact egg-shaped form. despite its relatively small size, the energy-efficient pod is capable of comfortably accommodating two adults. a built-in kitchenette offers running water, while the structure also contains a flushing toilet and hot shower — allowing occupants to live in a home-like atmosphere. in addition to a folding bed, the ecocapsule also features plenty of storage space for sporting or research equipment.
in 2015, the ecocapsule was a shortlisted entry of the LEXUS DESIGN AWARD, the prestigious international competition that targets up-and-coming creators from around the world. see the winning entries from 2015 here.
james corden tries out the ‘wandering hotel’ / video courtesy of chase
since original plans for the project were released in 2015, ecocapsule — the company producing the eponymous self-sustainable micro-home — has been working to receive financial backing. now, with the help of a group of international investors, the start-up will become an established company with the next phase of final prototyping and testing set to get underway. it is hoped that the first units will be in production by the end of 2017. the first, exclusive edition of ecocapsules is limited to 50 pieces, while the second, mass produced edition will be available for a lower price.
all images courtesy of ecocapsule
each ecocapsule is powered by a built-in turbine complemented by an array of photovoltaic cells, while a high-capacity battery ensures enough power is retained during periods of reduced solar or wind activity. furthermore, the design’s spherical shape is optimized for the collection of rainwater and dew, with built-in water filters allowing the inhabitant to utilize any water source. the entire unit fits into a standard shipping container and no special preparations and precautions are necessary to transport the product worldwide. in fact, the ecocapsule can be shipped, airlifted, towed or even pulled by a pack animal.
the egg-shaped pod can be relocated to an infinite number of destinations
though small in size, each unit comfortably houses two adults
the design encourages off-grid living
it is hoped that the first units will be in production by the end of 2017
the dwelling is powered by a built-in turbine complemented with an array of photovoltaic cells
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Looks good, but I would rather have a small bathtub, not everyone likes a shower. How much will they cost?
Truly a way to support the environment and b prepared for the collapse of greed mentality.
Hi @Debbie Spence, you can find the price for the first, limited edition Ecocapsules on our website: http://www.ecocapsule.sk
Ted Bakewell and I designed and built a similar structure 37 years ago, which he lived in off the grid for nearly 6 years! link http://www.michaeljantzen.com/Early_Built_Projects.html
I doubt designboom will allow this comment to be posted since they are afraid of criticism on their articles, but I find this type of production of so-called eco-capsules to be anything but “eco” minded. If you want to go spend time in the wilderness, bring a tent. Why in the world do you need this self-contained pod to be outdoors? I have spent weeks outdoors with nothing but a tent and backpack. Never mind you can’t really get the pod anywhere there isn’t a road, don’t be fooled by marketing this is nothing more than way to strip cash from people’s wallets.
Where’s the toilet or how is it looked after? Where does the water come from; rainwater collection or some other means? Stored in the unit before it’s placed? How is it placed to remote locatios; by helicopter?
good luck on that bathtub idea
I can’t get a wife with this
It’s nice as all the bean/egg shiny glossy forms, but what happens with the capsule at the end of its life cycle? how long this egg shaped caravan can survive out there? how can anybody fix damaged shell with a simple tools in the middle of nowhere? interior or exterior shell can be damaged or broken, what can easily happens on remote locations under extreme weather conditions or just by using it. Are there simple fix solutions, spare parts etc. for this overdesigned shelter? can you imagine beautiful and virgin remote locations from your images with the damaged and abandoned ecocapsules? anyway, fingers crossed and please, fix all bugs before anything goes out there.
Though the space is small, but there is a good suggestion, by placing another cottage that has a lounge with the energy fed from the main unit The ecocapsule!
I LOVE This! I think it’s a sad commentary that so many previous commentors choose to be quite negative. I have been following the Ecocapsule since 2015. Of course any bugs will be gone after all this time. It is not “overdesigned”, who is this hyper critical person? It is beautifully designed for all the necessities to fit into a lovely super small footprint. Brilliant! Thank You !
Very Cool!…[email protected] 86,000 bucks it’s not cost effective considering it only lasts a projective year before needed maintenance is required…seems like only those who are independently wealthy would even remotely consider paying that much and would have to be a minimalist to boot!
It is just a wonderful piece of design and technology. Not over-engineered nor over-designed. To all cristics : no worries, if you don’t like it than step aside, but just dare to admit it’s well done!
What!!?? $86,000 for essentially an egg-shaped shed with solar panels and wind turbine!!!!!!!!! What!!!! Sure, its nice with the sink and hot plate, little bed, hahaha!! Sorry but you people have lost your minds completely! Great idea but this is not going to happen for $86,000. Get it down to $20k USD then you’ll sell thousands opposed to selling very few at $86k.
I think it’s awesome! For all the haters out there with your negative comments…….didn’t your parents teach you that “If you don’t have anything nice to say, it’s best to say nothing at all” ……Really, if you don’t like something just keep it moving. Why waste the short time you have in this life hating.