Oculus Complex, Rub’ al Khali Desert in Abu Dhabi,
The pod consists of a double-glazed dome encasing a luxury hotel room, which is shrouded by a collapsible shell for shading, temperature control, camouflage and privacy.
The outer shell is made up of 60 shading panels which create a dense lattice to shelter the cabin, drawing inspiration from several desert cacti species which feature thick outer skins, foldings and fins to control heat and solar radiation.
The panels densify towards the crown, to adapt to the curvature of the pod, and in doing so augment their reflective capability from the harsh vertical sun radiation.
This outer layer can morph into different configurations depending on the time of the day, climate and needs of users, and also folds downwards to reveal a frameless acrylic dome for stargazing.
During daytime, the skin retracts sideways opening the front of the pod and unveiling the doors to the front deck.
When the shell is fully deployed, it camouflages the pod among the desert scenery to allow guests to go wildlife spotting from the comfort of their own cabin.
