A Sustainable Solution to Outdoor Seating
“Cocoon” is a sustainable shading and seating structure inspired by cooling principles from Middle Eastern architecture. This innovative urban furniture design offers comfort, sun protection, and communal engagement. Developed by architects and designers from the UAE, Germany, and Iran, with production support from The One Project (Belgium) and ACTVET (UAE), it adheres to circular design principles and utilizes recycled materials for outdoor durability.
Design Concept
“Cocoon” can be installed as one or multiple units. Each unit consists of a 3-meter-high 3D-printed conical shade-shell that transitions into a bench at the base. Its circular footprint and bench design encourage collective use, offering respite from the sun while creating a micro urban fabric when multiple units are combined.
The corrugated shell, in combination with light colors, ensures maximum deflection of sunlight throughout the day. Each unit is rotatable, allowing users to adjust its position to avoid direct sunlight all year round. Inspired by traditional cooling structures such as Iranian Ab-anbars, Italian Trullos, and African Mungum mud huts, “Cocoon” effectively protects users from the sun while blending traditional and contemporary design principles.
Sustainability is at the core of the design. The main shell is 3D-printed using recycled polypropylene (PP) reinforced with glass fiber for outdoor use and is structurally supported by a metal exo-skeleton. Computational design and large-scale 3D printing allow flexibility in achieving varied forms and aesthetics, significantly reducing manufacturing time. Mass production is integral to the construction process, ensuring scalability and accessibility.
Production and Implementation
The One Project oversees the production of “Cocoon,” drawing on expertise in circular design and sustainable practices. ACTVET ensures that the structure complies with local regulations and provides technical support throughout the production process. Together, these organizations combine advanced manufacturing techniques and sustainable materials to create a seamless, durable, and eco-friendly design.
Solar analysis highlights “Cocoon’s” efficiency during the most active hours of the day (8:00–20:00) on June 21, when the sun is at its highest. The structure effectively shields users from direct sunlight in north, south, and partially east-facing directions, with the added advantage of manual rotation for maximum comfort.
By merging advanced technology, recycled materials, and a thoughtful design inspired by tradition, “Cocoon” offers an innovative and sustainable solution to outdoor seating and shading in urban environments.
