By Nigel F. Maynard
Munich, Germany-based Industrial designer Maruan Attia has unveiled a new concept mobile living space that was crafted to embody the ideals of minimalism, sustainability and independence.
Designed for modern professionals and adventurers, the COCOON-Freelancer is constructed entirely from wood, free from chemical treatments, glue and plastics. This dedication to natural materials promotes a healthy and sustainable lifestyle, offering a sanctuary for those seeking refuge from conventional living, the company says.
AttiaDesign says the Freelancer is Inspired by the enduring Alpine houses and Japanese temples that have stood for 500 to 1,500 years, which is why the design integrates traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. The unit measures 73 inches wide, 79 inches high and 126 inches deep. It weighs approximately 2,645 pounds and has a payload capacity of 2,866 and 3,086 pounds.
The use of moonwood-timber, harvested with the lunar cycles during the coldest months when the sap flow is at rest and sugar content is lower, ensures optimal durability and resistance to insects, mold and deformation. This method eliminates the need for chemical preservatives, enhances the wood’s value and quality over time and produces 100% recyclable organic waste.
Weighing less than 3.5 tons, including vehicle and luggage, COCOON-Freelancer is designed for transport without requiring a special driving license. Its weight-optimized construction and minimalist, functional design make it an ideal choice for freelancers, creatives and nomads seeking the flexibility of mobile living. The interior features a convertible bed lounge and workspace, storage, an efficient TinyStove, a gas kitchen and stainless steel water system.
For those enviro conscious users, the Freelancer offers many health and comfort benefits. It uses untreated wood that ensures no harmful toxic emissions and ensures constant drying to prevent mold. Wood walls and specialized windows blocked substantial EMF radiation. The wood develops a natural gray patina through aging, making it weather-resistant and protecting the core from water and sun rays. In addition, the construction uses no screws or damages on the exterior wood surfaces, preventing areas from becoming susceptible to water absorption and premature aging.
The Freelancer features integrated dilatation joints, so the wood can expand and contract without compromising its fixed dimensions. Additionally, the geometry of the body, door, windows and cuts is designed to distribute loads evenly and minimize stress, ensuring stability and resistance to torsion during transport. Promoting energy efficiency, the light safety vacuum glass achieves an exceptional insulation value, matching the performance of standard 44 mm triple-layer glass, while being six times thinner and lighter at just 7.7 mm. Attia explains that this innovative design combines energy efficiency with space and weight advantages.
Promoting flexibility, the complete interior is secured with hand-tightened nuts, allowing it to be disassembled without tools and designed for unloading by a single person. Finally, the unit is topped with solar panels that are capable of generating more than 900 watts, 37.5V and 24A.
“AttiaDesign’s commitment to sustainability is at the heart of COCOON-Freelancer,” the company says. “From the careful selection of materials to the innovative design and construction methods, every detail reflects a deep respect for nature and a vision for a more sustainable future.”