standing sleeping pods help people take power naps on their feet while in the office or cafés

Standing sleeping pods ‘giraffnap’ in public spaces

Sleeping pods called ‘giraffenap,’ created by KOYOJU Plywood Corporation in Japan, allow people to take power naps while standing, whether they are in their office or at a coffee shop. The standing sleeping pods encourage people to take a rest for a while and recharge by taking power naps for around 20 minutes on their feet.

Recently, the company partnered with Nescafe Sleep Cafe in Harajuku and installed these nap pods inside the coffee shop. During its limited run, the coffee shop’s patrons could drink their coffees and then immediately rest as they took power naps inside the standing sleeping pods. Each giraffenap standing sleeping pod consists of cushioned parts that support the head, buttocks, shins, and soles. The company says that by targeting these four points, the user can enter their nap state without compromising their relaxation and posture.

Giraffenap makers even quote the joint research of Hokkaido University and Taiwan’s National Cheng Kung University, saying that when the user sleeps on their feet, they can reach the second stage of sleep, which is a state that allows them to breathe lightly. With giraffenap standing sleeping pods, the company hopes to realize this so people can quickly return to work or their activities without feeling dizzy after a power nap.

images by Giraffenap

Forest nap box inspired by wooden saunas

The Giraffenap standing sleeping pods come in two models. The ‘Forest’ one mimics the style of wooden saunas with its lattice woodwork. It also draws inspiration from the warmth of the wood surface typically used in modern Japanese design. This particular standing sleeping pod may help create an atmosphere of calm serenity even if it is placed in a corporate office. It is equipped with an air purifier and air conditioner to ensure that ventilation flows in and out well and to beat the heat during warm seasons.

Inside, the arm pads and seat height can be adjusted using the panels found inside the nap box. The position can also be adjusted according to the user’s height and desire so that they can achieve the optimal standing and sleeping posture for their power nap. The seat covers are made of fabric resistant to water and oil-based stains, and any marks can be wiped clean using a cloth. Daylight and incandescent ambient lighting can help the user create the comfy sleeping atmosphere they want. They can even adjust the brightness and type of light for up to seven different levels.

‘Giraffenap,’ created by KOYOJU Plywood Corporation, allows people to take power naps while standing

Intergalactic pod with fire detectors

The second model of giraffenap standing sleeping pod brings the user into the galactic space with its space-ready design. ‘Spacia’ streamlines its triangular polyhedron-shaped ceiling, and its white base color can blend well with an office environment. Its void-like interior completes the intergalactic setup with its material made of noncombustible melamine laminate. Its tempered glass windows resist fire in case of emergencies, and the standing sleeping pod model is even equipped with fire detectors and an automatic fire extinguishing system.

Just like its Forest sibling, Spacia has adjustable cushioned seats and arm pads that are easy to clean too in case of accidental stains. Its walls are insulated enough to block out external noises so the user can enjoy a comfortable quietness for an undisturbed nap time. If the office coworkers are being a bit too loud, the user can even gag their mouth with the wearable soundproof Bluetooth microphone to muffle their voices.

For both models, the giraffenap standing sleeping pods have undergone sturdiness testing to demonstrate their abilities to withstand extreme tremors. In the experiments, the design team recreated earthquakes based on seismic data in the Haga wave of the Great East Japan Earthquake, where a seismic intensity of 7 unfolded.

each giraffenap standing sleeping pod consists of cushioned parts that support the head, buttocks, shins, and soles