BY: CAROLINE ROLF
Man or woman, sometimes you just need to escape daily stresses by retreating to your own private sanctuary. Maybe that features a faux-fur rug and a dartboard, or Dwayne Johnson posters and fully stocked bar. No matter how many awesome features your fortress of solitude has, Juno Williams will make you abandon your basement for good with his man cave that soars over the New Zealand skyline.
The engineer and graphic designer built the Skysphere in the hills of Palmerston North, New Zealand and fully equipped it with technological features ranging from lighting to voice commands, finger-print operated doors and an essential for every “Manetarium”– a couch with a built-in beer dispensing fridge.
The idea began as a tree house but soon accelerated into a 10-metre steel column with a spectacular 360° view in the clouds. Despite having no prior experience with welding and steel construction, Williams gained the skills as he worked on the Skysphere for more than 3,000 hours, with a modest budget of $7,500.
The 8 mm steel construction enforces the Skysphere’s design to withstand magnitude 8.5 earthquakes and tremendous wind speeds. Several solar panels line the roof, which are the sole providers of the Skysphere’s electricity, critical to power the many devices inside. A long climb up the ladder in the central cylinder provides access to the main digs.
The rooftop platform is designed as a place of relaxation to escape the troubles of the world for a night. The simple set-up and exceptional technological features will ease your mind, whether you want to watch a movie or gaze at the stars. The Skysphere is undoubtedly a sight to behold in the New Zealand countryside.
Check out the construction and many unique features the Skysphere boasts here:
Image Sourcing: livingbiginatinyhouse.com, humble-homes.com, stuff.co.nz
