Dwelling Bicycle (Volos, Greece)Year: 2013Supervision: Zissis KotionisConsultants: Dimitris Korres, Nikolaos PlatsasMetal Parts: Afoi LazarouFabrics: Konstantinos MpousiakisBike Parts: Giorgos TriantarisSpecifications:
• Width x Depth x Height : 35.4 x 92.5 x 63 inches (900 x 2350 x 1600 mm) • Aluminum Wheel Diameter (Front / Rear) : 20/28 inches • Steel aluminium frame 2 mm thick • Motion: Rear Left Wheel • Luggage: 2.47 Cubic feet (70 liters) • Weight : 81.5 Pounds (37 kg)
Transportation, recreation, racing... Undoubtedly, the variety of functions that a bicycle can perform is impressive. What would happen if some of these were combined and especially when one of them does not belong to its accepted and expected operations? The project aims at a harmonious coexistence of the functions of the bicycle as a means of transport and accommodation in a single, unified package. Inspired by a classic story of modern mechanix magazine, the project focuses on ensuring the necessary privacy for the character of the vehicle as a place of rest, while maintaining drivability, despite the increased weight compared to a usual bike. Thus, dwelling bicycle can be used as a comfortable vehicle in the urban context, while giving the opportunity to cover longer distances in the countryside and have a temporary shelter at the same time.
The vehicle is driven in a way that refers to recumbent bicycles in order to maintain a comfortable experience for long distances. When not in motion, the seat and cover can be easily transformed to alter the bicycle's functionality into a place for resting. Instead of carbon fiber which would be the ideal solution, for budget efficiency, a combination of aluminum and steel elements was used along with weatherproof textiles in the protective cover and the seating.