the Project.
With the rising cost of living in Sydney, students are increasingly opting to room share with strangers to cut down on rent prices. This can lead to a lack of privacy, in which students have limited freedom in having their own space to focus, study, relax or invite friends. Teaming up with Cocoon Roomsharing services, the project aimed to create welcoming solutions for students who have just moved to Sydney and room sharing with strangers.
team: 5 people
duration: 4 weeks
aim.
As students have reduced privacy and space to themselves due to their roomsharing situations, we wanted to create a space which could encourage indoor activities to be taken outdoors so students have a comfortable and safe space to temporarily use for their own.
the concept.
The Cocoon Pod is a street furniture piece which gives the versatility and cosiness of privacy in a shared space. The structure within the pod can be adjusted to accommodate a variety of activities, such as eating, relaxing or studying. The pod is enclosed and uses vertical wooden slats around the perimeter to create a balance of private and open space. The slats are spaced out and at a height to prevent people from climbing over when the pod is closed. Solar powered shading provides light at night and also powers USB charging outlets for handy charging. The Cocoon Pod also used an app interface to allow for booking between students to avoid conflict and misuse.
The pod can be configured to be a workstation for one, the desk can be extended for a group setting, or the seats can be popped up for a lounging rest space.
Materials for the pod were considered to withstand weather and vandalism. The base decking and chairs are made from a reclaimed timber and recycled plastics, which is naturally weather resistant and resistant to termite and decay, and require little maintenance. The base decking is also spaced out to allow for sufficient drainage. The shell of the pod is a 316 stainless steel which is also weather and corrosion resistant, whilst also being durable.
