SHELTERS: TREND ANALYSIS

As private/personal space becomes popular for the consumer this article explores all the latest trends of modern shelters/pods.

Shelter Trend Hub WGSN link



Consumers are moving towards the mindset described in WGSN's autumn/winter 2011/12 macrotrend Your Space: “People are increasingly creating self-contained, portable, self-generating environments.... Take control. Play with concepts such as invisibility and absence. Create a sense of personal space to let consumers breathe, think and let a little beauty in.”

Within architecture and spatial design, this direction manifests in the form of isolated constructions and physical hideaways that allow the consumer space and time to relax and reflect.

WGSN has identified four key approaches within the trend: fortified and heavily protected structures, treehouses and hidden getaways, contemplative retreats and working pods for employees.

• Architects are increasingly utilising a bunker aesthetic, creating buildings that look as if they could withstand a doomsday scenario or future ecological catastrophe

• The idea is similar to that of the "safehouse", often found in science fiction and literary considerations of dystopian scenarios

• Tough, strong materials such as concrete and stone are shaped into simple block forms and left unfinished, creating a rough and ready feel

• The landscape around the building is often exploited, with architects burying projects into rocks or hillsides, or designing forms which blend into their environments almost to the point of invisibilityThe recent increase in dwellings located high in the trees denotes a more playful take on the shelter trend
• Tree Hotel, a two-person residence in a forest in Sweden by Tham Videgård Arkitekter, is clad in a mirror-panelled shell that reflects the surrounding trees so effectively, it’s difficult to even notice its presence

• Other projects act as calm areas for solitude and spiritual exploration

• These buildings are usually located in isolated environments, are difficult to access and are extremely peaceful in their elective seclusion

• As space and tranquility become more rare in our daily lives, consumers crave extreme antidotes to cramped and crazed urban life. Remote outposts offering stillness and an opportunity to reflect provide an attractive alternative, even if just for a short time

• Individual outposts also provide a great opportunity to minimise distractions when working and allow employees to complete tasks both more quickly and effectively

• It’s long been the case that writers use secluded spots to focus on their work – British authors Roald Dahl and Philip Pullman both famously wrote/write in sheds at the bottom of their gardens – and now the idea spreads to other types of employment

• The trend began inside the office (see our earlier report) with sheltered work stations, and is now moving outside to utilise the health and productivity benefits of access to fresh air and the natural environment