NOT A HOTEL ANYWHERE: The Ultimate Luxury Mobile Living Experience
In a groundbreaking project that has caught the attention of architectural enthusiasts worldwide, DDA Architects has unveiled NOT A HOTEL ANYWHERE. This innovative concept challenges the traditional notions of housing and offers a glimpse into the future of alternative living. With its ingenious use of Airstream and Spartan trailers, this mobile living unit redefines luxury on the road.
Gone are the days of cramped and uncomfortable mobile living. NOT A HOTEL ANYWHERE takes the concept of downsizing to a whole new level, proving that you can have the best of both worlds – a life of luxury and the freedom to explore. Designed for a private customer and completed in 2023, this project has already garnered attention as a potential contender for the prestigious Building of the Year 2024 award.
The concept behind NOT A HOTEL ANYWHERE is refreshingly simple yet undeniably extravagant. Instead of settling for a single trailer, why not opt for five? Each trailer is meticulously designed for a specific purpose, creating a harmonious living space that caters to every need. While the logistics of managing a large convoy may seem daunting, the architects assure us that it is indeed possible.
DDA Architects has brought this vision to life by combining two spacious Spartan trailers with three iconic Airstreams. The result is a glamping unit that exudes elegance and sophistication. With the capacity to accommodate up to 24 people, this mobile masterpiece is perfect for large families or even as a luxurious off-grid resort.
The architects were tasked with creating well-defined spaces, uninterrupted views, and a traditional Japanese “snack bar” known as a sunakku. Rather than opting for a conventional home, DDA Architects proposed repurposing vintage trailers that retain their mobility. This allows the owners to change locations at their whim, embracing the true essence of a nomadic lifestyle.
While the five trailers are theoretically capable of moving, practical limitations exist. The Spartan trailers, in particular, require special permits due to their size. Additionally, all five units need to be connected to the grid for essential utilities such as water, sewage, and electricity. However, DDA Architects assures us that they are committed to further development and are actively exploring ways to make the trailers self-sufficient.
Currently situated in Aoshima, Miyazaki Prefecture, NOT A HOTEL ANYWHERE is not bound by its location. Should the owners desire a change of scenery, the project can be relocated. Although moving this mobile living unit may present its challenges, it is undoubtedly a smoother process than relocating a traditional brick-and-mortar home.
NOT A HOTEL ANYWHERE is a testament to the limitless possibilities of mobile living. With its blend of luxury, functionality, and freedom, it represents a new era in alternative housing. As DDA Architects continues to push the boundaries of design, we eagerly await the day when these trailers can truly operate off-grid. Until then, we can only marvel at this extraordinary project and dream of a life on the road.
NOT A HOTEL: A Unique Living Experience
In a groundbreaking project, NOT A HOTEL offers a total living space of 74 square meters (797 square feet). This innovative concept divides the space into separate areas, with each space having its own trailer. The project includes two bedrooms, a sauna, an office, and the sunakku, with the space in between the trailers transformed into a stylish outdoor lounge and dining area. One of the bedrooms can even double as a living room in case of inclement weather.
The interiors of the trailers are designed to complement their shiny aluminum exteriors. However, the architects have also made improvements to the trailers’ structure, insulation, and waterproofing without compromising their vintage aesthetics. The interior design features a combination of transparent surfaces, hardwood, stainless steel, and minimalist pieces. To create a sense of spaciousness, all furniture is placed on the ground, under the windows, with only a few exceptions using mesh or transparent materials to maintain an unobstructed view.
The architects have ingeniously masked the usual protruding wheelhouses with furniture such as beds or cabinets, further enhancing the sense of space. The insulation used in the trailers is lightweight glass wool and flexible PE foam material to ensure that the permissible weight of the trailer is not affected. It’s worth noting that all five units have license plates, allowing them to retain their original functionality as road-legal travel trailers.
According to the architects, the aim of this project was to create a space that is not overcrowded. They have taken into consideration the need for foldable beds, compact toilet and bath areas, and a kitchen that doesn’t overpower the room with cooking odors. Additionally, they wanted to provide the flexibility for individuals to choose the trailer that best suits their needs.
Imagine the possibilities of this mix-and-match approach. Whether you are entertaining a large party or a smaller group, you can choose to tow all five trailers or select any combination of the five. While this exclusive concept may seem like a dream for many, it’s always nice to indulge in thoughts of the finer things in life. NOT A HOTEL offers a unique living experience that allows you to do just that.
