The Escape Pod by Podmakers

Designed and crafted by British-based designers Dominic Ash and Jeremy Fitter who have joined forces to form Podmakers the Escape Pod is a luxury wooden rotating pod. Its total area is only 7m² (75ft²). This beautiful, striking outdoor structure with the price starts at £19,800 can be used as a garden office, studio, snug or retreat.

To achieve its curved form, the pod’s design exploits innovative CNC milling and making techniques. This enables it to be fabricated with precision in the workshop, entirely from wood. Birch plywood, chosen for its strength and aesthetic qualities, forms the structure. It is exposed internally; from the pod’s framework to the bespoke laminated door hinge. Externally, the pod is clad with cedar shingles and the stairs and window sills are clad in European Oak, which has natural weather resilient properties. Over time the Cedar and Oak develop a silver hue, allowing the pod to blend harmoniously into its surroundings.

The organic nature of the Escape Pod’s materials contrasts with the engineering employed in its design. Amongst its most impressive features is an aircraft-style plug door with a unique wooden hinge mechanism. The pod sits on a raised platform half a meter from the ground which allows it to be rotated – by lifting the steps, it is spun to face the desired direction. Each pod can be tailored to suit the clients’ needs, from the window placement and internal finish to the integrated fittings and furnishings. Heating (wood burner or underfloor), electrics and insulation options can also be incorporated. The price of the Escape Pod starts at £19,800 but will vary slightly, depending on style specifications.

— Podmakers

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