Glamping Reimagined

Taking Accommodation to new heights

At its forefront, the Alpine Jewel emphasizes a sense of floating in the clouds and a feeling of open-aired freedom drawn from the legacy of Warren Harding and portaledges past. Designed in partnership with the IMMERST studio at Stephens Waring, an airy feel is accomplished through a combination of floor to ceiling glass windows, wrap-around glass decks, and retractable glass wall that seamlessly connect the outdoor and indoor environments.

To minimize the visual impact of the structure and the overall footprint and size, best practices were drawn from yacht design which optimize the efficiency and versatility of every square foot of space, while also adding a timeless elegance and style to the interior and exterior spaces.

Materials are selected to be sustainable, cost-effective, and durable – primarily consisting of wood, glass, and steel.  An emphasis was placed on constructability and components that were available as off the shelf products.

 

To optimize interior space and provide the greatest guest comfort, furniture was designed to be collapsible and multi-configurable, much the same as a modern sailboat or RV. In the main living quarters, a queen-size Murphy bed, complete with integrated retractable dining table, is attached to the back wall. Both the bed and table can be raised and lowered depending on the guest activity. An efficient kitchenette and private bathroom provide guests with the creature comfort of a modern hotel room and are supported by a super-efficient water and septic system borrowed from the marine industry.

Units can be configured to accommodate access by catwalk system or for more adventurous locations, by Via Ferrata.

While Alpine Jewel units can be fully integrated with civic utilities, an off-grid configuration was designed that can operate autonomously in remote wilderness environments.

Solar panels are installed on the roof for recharging a large battery system that will provide ample power for lights, guest electronics (phones, laptops, etc.) and the operation of pumps and life safety equipment. Rainwater collection and purification mitigate some of the need to transport or pump water to cisterns and provide a sustainable cooling solution for the hottest months.

Cutting-edge marine based composting toilets provide a sustainable solution for reducing septic waste while gray water is recycled or collected in cisterns that can be pumped when full.

 

Design Highlights

  • 300 sq. ft. flexible configuration living area
  • Yacht designed murphy bed with integrated dining-table
  • Wrap-around deck with glass railing
  • Rock-anchor system designed by leading geotechnical bridge engineers
  • Kitchenette and bathroom supported by efficient marine engineered technology
  • Option for off-grid or municipal utility hookup
  • Prefabricated modular construction for easier installation
  • Catwalk connection possible from above or below access points as well as step and cable system.

DEsign Partner