Moncoquec Cabin | Markos Design Workshop

The Monocoque Cabin project began during the Covid-19 pandemic, born from a vision to apply architectural principles from the automotive industry to built-environment design. Initially in undertaking the project, I faced two challenges: I had no money and I did not own any land, nor did I know of anyone who did.

Determined to realize this vision, I didn’t let these hurdles deter me. My search for land led to a partnership with a farm in Shropshire, where I agreed to design and build the cabin in exchange for the farm receiving a share of the profits. At the same time, I was working in an architectural practice, training to become a RIBA and ARB Chartered Architect, while also dedicating my free time to developing the Monocoque Cabin.

An unforeseen and incredible opportunity arose in October 2022. Airbnb launched a global competition to fund 100 unique accommodations, each with $100,000. With over 200,000 entries, the odds seemed slim. Yet, to my great fortune, Airbnb was interested in the Cabin’s design and selected it as one of the winners, providing the much-needed funding to build it. This was an amazing development, for which I am thankful. It also led me to leave my job after qualifying as an Architect, setting up my own practice - Markos Design Workshop and undertaking the project as a self-build doing much of the carpentry work whilst working with the prefabrication specialists BlokBuild and Price & Myers engineers. 

The project has grown from a prototype to offering people the opportunity to own their own tiny homes. The cabins are internally bespoke and designed to meet the demands of owners. For example, if you are looking for a place to work, the structure can be adapted accordingly, or if you are looking for a two-bedroom holiday home, we can adapt the design to that. 

The concept of the Monocoque Cabin originated from a fascination with aerospace and automotive construction techniques known for their efficient use of materials. This led to the question: Why not integrate such methods into the built environment? Monocoques are structural systems in which loads are supported by an object’s external skin, creating a stiff, strong, light structure similar to an ‘eggshell’. These are structures often used in aerospace and automotive design. The Monocoque Cabin takes inspiration from the WWII de Havilland Mosquito monocoque structure. These fighter planes are the most outstanding examples of monocoque structures. The Monocoque Cabin is made from various timber materials, carefully chosen to connect with its rural setting. The materials age gracefully and grey over time, after years, you find yourself with a beautiful structure than the one that was first made.

At first sight, the Monocoque Cabin will be an example of organic architecture at peace with its site. Its undulating and ribbed structure creates a highly sculptural form rationalised internally and contextually. The curvilinear form creates cohesive and fluid spaces inside the structure, where walls become ceilings. Internal materials have been carefully considered to convey a sense of warmth and belonging, with furniture integrated within the structure. The curvacious, organic structure blends with that of the rural and agricultural landscape that immediately surrounds it. 

I am immensely grateful for everyone's support in helping us reach this point. Transforming this dream into my life’s work has been an extraordinary privilege. I am excited to keep exploring nature’s wonders with all of you. Monocoque Cabin embodies a shared vision: a more untamed world where we all find our place within the natural environment.

Lead Architects: Peter Markos

Photography: Peter Markos/ Efe Onikinci