Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called the Autonomous Tent®?

au·ton·o·mous - existing independently or having the freedom to do so.

How do you sell your tents?

We sell our tents similar to how a yurt is sold. We provide the frame and fabric and plans for the platform and walls. We originally created a package that included interior and exterior walls with doors and windows, but found it was difficult to ship and not cost effective. After our first few installations, we have found it is best for our clients to work with local resources and materials to build their platform, walls, and interior finishes.

How are your tents different?

The Autonomous Tent shares many characteristics of a tent, but is really a new form of architecture that is in a class of its own. It can be set up and taken down and in many locations may not require a permanent foundation. It is engineered to stand up to hurricane winds (115 mph) and heavy snow loads (90 psf) and can be used year round in some locations.

How much do your tents cost?

We are currently working with our manufacturing partners and will be announcing our new pricing model soon. We expect the frame and fabric for our 580 sq ft (54 m2) tent will sell for around $60,000 USD. Depending upon labor costs, mechanics, and final finishes, the final cost to finish a tent could be $100,000 to $150,000 USD per tent.

Regarding smaller tents, we are also designing a smaller version, which will be approximately 380 sq ft (35 m2). However, we won’t know our costs until we build the prototype early next year.

What are the dimensions of your tent?

The interior dimensions of our 580 sq ft (54 m2) tent are 12 ft high, 24 ft wide, and 28 ft deep.

The interior dimensions of our 380 sq ft (35 m2) are 11 ft high, 22ft wide, and 20 ft deep.

How do the tents hold up under high winds, lashing rain, heavy snow, and high moisture climates?

Very well. The tents have been engineered for hurricane winds (115 mph) and heavy snow loads (90 psf). The tent fabric is specifically designed to stand up to heavy winds and rain and will not mildew or rot.

What are the mechanics of the tent?

The mechanics of the tent are unique to each site. In many locations, a small array of solar panels will provide enough power for LED lights, pumps, water filters, and a composting system. In some locations, a simple grey water system can filter shower and sink water and be returned back to the natural landscape.

Please note that we have decided not to resell mechanical components due to the number of options available and difficulty to support worldwide. However, we are happy to share our experience and help point you in the right direction.

Do the tents require a trailer or a shipping container to ship them?

Yes, the tent frame and fabric weigh approximately 2,000 lbs. If shipped within the US or Canada, we will deliver the tents via a semi trailer. If shipped overseas, we will deliver the tents via a shipping container. Cost for shipping will vary by design, quantity, and location.