Dutch designers Caspar Schols, have revealed a unique and versatile living experience, that slides open to embrace the outdoors. Dubbed ANNA Stay 2.0, the tiny house is an upgraded version of the original design, incorporating new features such as a sunken bathtub and a stowable bed.
The ANNA Stay 2.0, boasts sliding walls and an innovative design, which allows residents to seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The unique home can function as a traditional cabin, but its wooden walls can also be manually slid apart to create a semi-outdoor space. Alternatively, the cabin can be opened up with a glass roof and walls, allowing for a connection with the surroundings while remaining protected from the elements. Another option is to slide the walls open on one side, creating a greenhouse-like enclosure.
One of the key advantages of the ANNA Stay 2.0 is its adaptability to different seasons. In winter, the insulated wooden structure retains warmth like a thick coat, while in spring and autumn, the glass keeps out the rain and lets in the sun to warm up the space. If it gets too warm, the wooden layer can be closed to maintain coolness, or the glass layer can be opened to allow a refreshing breeze inside.
The cabin can reach a maximum length of 13 meters (42 feet), depending on the specific configuration. The interior features a spacious open room that can be used for exercise or hosting visitors. The bed is stored under the floor and can be raised when needed, while the sunken bathtub is accessed via a hatch. Additionally, there is a kitchenette, a standard bathroom with a shower, sink, and toilet, as well as a wood-burning stove for heating. The ANNA Stay 2.0 also includes a mezzanine loft sleeping area, reminiscent of tiny house design, which is accessed by a ladder. The cabin is constructed using a combination of engineered wood, birch ply, and aluminum, with extensive use of glazing.
The walls of the ANNA Stay 2.0 are opened and closed manually on rails, equipped with locks and an integrated braking system inspired by Dutch bicycles. While concerns about leaks and drafts may arise, Schols assures that these issues have been addressed in the design. To minimize its transportation footprint, the cabin has been designed so that 80% of its unique parts can be produced locally in the future using digital files and CNC machines. Additionally, the mounting material is printed using recycled plastic. Rubber and aluminum extrusion techniques have been employed, resulting in 26 specially designed extrusion profiles that ensure smooth sliding and maintain water and wind tightness. The patented aluminum rails, featuring an integrated wind labyrinth, are the most innovative part of the design. Achieving a tolerance of less than 1 mm (0.03 inch) in the moving parts was a significant challenge due to the different expansion rates of materials in various climates and conditions.
As for the power supply, the ANNA Stay 2.0 can be connected to the grid, but off-grid options are also available in the Netherlands. The exact cost of the cabin has yet to be revealed, but it is expected to be announced later this month.
The ANNA Stay 2.0 an exciting development in the world of architectural design. Whether used as a personal retreat, a vacation home, or a business space, this cabin offers a compelling blend of versatility, aesthetics, and practicality. The project has already garnered recognition by winning the World Hotel Building of the Year award at the 2022 World Architecture Festival. Furthermore, Schols has plans to introduce a business-focused model called the ANNA Meet in 2024.
