Questions · before you commission
What peopleask us—
- What exactly is Cocoon?
- A design-led atelier that creates organically shaped, made-to-order micro-homes, villas, kiosks and store facades — and delivers them complete. We design collections, called Editions, and we also take custom commissions.
- Do I buy a finished house from stock?
- No. You commission a design — one of our Editions or your own — and we build that one for you. Made to order, like couture.
- Does the design have to have been built before?
- No. Our Editions are designs ready to commission. When you choose one, we build it for you.
- What does "turnkey" include?
- Detailed plans, architectural drawings, permits and authorisations, land preparation, landscaping, infrastructure such as water, power and drainage, and installation on your site. We hand you a finished home.
- Can you really build any shape?
- Organic, curved and sculptural forms are exactly what we specialise in. Bring a sketch, a reference or a finished concept and we will tell you how to build it well.
- Why an organic shell instead of a conventional house?
- Because the form itself is the point — sculptural, continuous, distinctive — and because a continuous insulated shell makes for calm, quiet, comfortable interiors, particularly in hot climates.
- Is it well insulated?
- Yes. The insulation is continuous and built into the body of the structure, which helps keep interiors even-tempered and comfortable.
- Is the foam safe regarding fire?
- The insulating core is fully encapsulated within the structural skin.
- How heavy is it? Does it need big foundations?
- The finished shell is light relative to solid concrete or masonry, which keeps foundations modest — and makes transportable and floating versions possible.
- Can it float, or move?
- Yes. Structures can be specified fixed, floating on buoyant bases, or mobile — wheeled, inflatable, expandable, or a deployable shell.
- How long does it take?
- It depends on the design, the site and the finish level. We give a clear schedule with every commission.
- What does it cost?
- Every project is priced per commission, because each is made to order. For comparable bespoke, site-built sculptural work, Cocoon is often more cost-effective. We provide a costed quotation as part of the custom process.
- What about maintenance?
- The structural shell is durable and built to keep water out. Like any fine building it benefits from periodic care of its surface finish.
- What about environmental impact?
- It is built to last, and a highly insulated envelope means calmer interiors and lower everyday energy demand for cooling. We talk about longevity and comfort rather than slogans.
- Where do you work?
- We are based between Beirut and Helsinki and focus on the Gulf and the Mediterranean, with design-led and hospitality clients internationally.
- How do I start?
- Choose an Edition, or submit your own design through our custom process. We respond with a plan and a costed quotation.
Still deciding? Start a commission and we respond with a plan— and a costed quotation.
Start a commission