the cocoon treehouse is a bubble-like habitat for humans, animals and nature in france

for this entry to YAC’s tree house module competition, score architects proposes a unique habitat at vibrac castle in france, where humans, animals and nature coexist in harmony. ‘the cocoon’ is not just a treehouse but a manifesto for a new way of living that respects the environment and all living beings.

the cocoon – module 1

images courtesy of score architects

score architects‘ design aims to establish a very specific relation to the context, nurturing an environment where local fauna and flora can coexist with human beings in an ‘inclusive condominium’. the two different modules are sited to emphasize vibrac’s landscape, and its waters and woods. one module hangs from the trees while the other gently floats on the river. different seasons leave space to different scenarios. as the surrounding nature changes, so do the living modules.

the cocoon – module 1

the indoor space offers a unique experience of the landscape while being surrounded by the sounds of the water and woods. no distinction is made between animals and humans and rooms are glued together to create a bubble-like shape. detached rooms can be added according to different types of guests or functions. the interiors are designed for humans and animals while the external skin provides an environment for plants to grow and naturally creates habitats for microorganisms and insects as part of a ‘living landscape canvas’.

the cocoon – module 2

both modules are formally and constructively consistent with variations in compositions, sizes and openings. the inner rooms are constructed with timber elements and linked to the main bamboo netting structure. this latter works also as a support for the exterior module finishing: an organic hemp mesh. the bamboo structure is interrupted in front of the openings, in order to keep the view open over the surrounding landscape. the treehouse module is firmly supported to the nearby trees with a system of stretched ropes and anchored with steel elements. while module two gives the illusion of floating on the water edge and is placed on piles.

concept

site plan

module 1 section

module 2 section

project info:

project name: the cocoon

architecture: score architects

competition: tree house module

organizer: young architects competition (YAC)

location: france

client: dartagnans

year: 2020