Permanent Camping II, a Clever Copper Prefab With Peak Mad Max Vibes

In 2007, Casey Brown Architecture built Permanent Camping cabin, a metallic structure on a remote property in Mudgee, Australia with the gritty futuristic look of the Mad Max series. And the internet took note. Now, 13 years later and a four-hour drive from its predecessor, Permanent Camping II stands as a new and improved version of the original.

Permanent Camping II features many of the same elements that made the first structure so eye-catching, including its signature external "flaps," a rich recycled ironbark interior, and a similarly modest 9’ x 9’ footprint. As before, the living area remains below with a lofted bed up top, accessible by ladder. Solar and water storage remain on the roof.

However ‘II’ does pack in more square footage, achieved by the addition of decks on the east and west and a second tower out back that contains a composting toilet and shower.

Inspired by blooming flowers, when closed, the corrugated copper shutters (a similar concept to that of Olson Kundig's writer's cabin) on both models protect the structures from brush fires and extreme weather in the Australian wild. Suspended by exposed hinges and chains, they raise to open the cabin's interior to surrounding elements and vast views.

Inside, Permanent Camping II is simple but lush, with sparse furnishings that includes a couple of chairs, a tiny coffee table, wood stove, and copper sink for washing and food prep-all offset against the dark red of oiled ironbark. A lovely contrast to the bright plywood interiors often featured on Field Mag. Outside, a copper ladder leads to a water tank and solar panels on the roof.

Prefabricated in a barn on-site, the cabin acts as a retreat for the client-a farmer who owns the surrounding land and lives elsewhere on the beautiful property.

Like something out of a dystopian science fiction movie, Permanent Camping II (and I) take cabin design in a different direction, with a minimal footprint yet all the creature comforts we know and love included. If Casey Brown Architects ever offers the design for worldwide delivery, you'll be the first to know... after we place an order ourselves.