The Self-Sufficient ‘Disappear Retreat’ Is Portable and Blends Into Its Surroundings

The Disappear Retreat is a sustainable, self sufficient and creative hut that melts into its surroundings, wherever you take it.

The portable living space is almost invisible, super light and requires no heating or cooling systems thanks to a spotted pattern of thin-film PV on the southern wall which uses the sun to generate all of the energy needed to power the building. You can choose from three different models with identical exteriors but alternate interior layouts.

The design is part of the triple zero movement, which involve building designs that require zero energy, have zero waste and use zero water. The design is fully transportable and can even fit on a standard trailer. Everything about this sustainable living space has been carefully considered and designed, including the transparent ultra violet colour that prevents animals from colliding with the camouflaged box.

The idea originated when a designer was laying under the night sky, gazing up at the impressive show of northern lights, and was inspired to create a retreat with a glass roof where the surrounding environment can be appreciated and help the occupant feel connected to their planet.

Oh, and incase you did want to take one of these with you to watch the northern lights, don’t be worried; the triple-pane insulated glass units ensure that you have an uninterrupted view of your surroundings, and the vacuum insulated panels of floor and walls keep you cosy, even if the temperature is -31oC.

Coulson is an American based architecture firm, founded by Carly Coulson, whose designs focus on ‘aesthetically rich and environmentally innovative buildings’. Together they aimed to construct a place to live seamlessly and lightly within the mysterious beauty of the landscape. It appears they’ve done exactly that, and have left us a little envious.