The Malleable Autonomous Retreat House by Jantzen Studio

Article source: Jantzen Studio

The Malleable Autonomous Retreat House was designed as a special interactive, prefabricated, painted wood retreat place for two people, in a remote location. It basically consists of a large exterior canopy, which is fitted with 32 slotted panels that are hinged in the middle, and at one end. All of these panels can be automatically moved up or down with small electric gear motors and/or manually folded up or down with hand operated geared cranks, in order to manipulate the quality of the space below, and at the same time change the shape of the entire structure. Whenever all of the panels are closed (or in the flat position) the house retains a simple rectangular form. In this position, the space under the canopy is entirely shaded, and blocks most of the wind. As the hinged panels are opened to any degree, the shape of the house begins to change into a totally unpredictable form, which can be based on the desired climatic conditions under the canopy, and/or just aesthetic preferences. Two of the largest panels are clad with solar panels, which supply all of the electricity for the house. These panels can also be folded up or down to adjust to ideal angles for capturing the most energy from the sun.

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

• Architects: Jantzen Studio (Michael Jantzen)
• Project: The Malleable Autonomous Retreat House

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Under the canopy, the interior potion of the house consists of a rectangular shaped structure made of 10 sliding glass doors (operable for ventilation) and a glass roof. This enclosed portion of the structure contains a bed, seating, tables, a food preparation pod, and a composting toilet and bath pod. Propane gas is used for cooking, and for auxiliary space heating. When the sun is available, the canopy panels can be opened for direct solar space heating of the interior portion of the house. The glass perimeter and roof of the interior portion of the house allows for a full view of the dynamic malleable space of the canopy that surrounds it, as well as dramatically framed views of the surrounding landscape.

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Both the canopy and the glass portion of the house are mounted onto a large elevated wood deck that is supported by wood legs, anchored to the ground. At both ends of the deck there are two more slotted panels built in that can remain flat, or fold up into various angles to function as places to lead against, while relaxing on the deck of the Malleable Autonomous Retreat House.

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Image Courtesy © Jantzen Studio

Categories: House, Retreat

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