The urban pod is a structure providing short-term lodging to travelers, but goes beyond its walls to promote sustainability to the community.

1. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
Introduction to Sustainable Design
Minneapolis College of Art & Design
The Urban Pod.
designing the sustainable experience

2. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
what millennials want
Millennials, who are conscious of the impact they make on the planet
are also leading the growing trend of voluntouring. As the rise of
social responsibility expands, society is beginning to combine travel
with volunteering. 71% of Trip Advisor’s members said they plan to
make more eco-friendly choices next time they travel while giving
back, sharing their knowledge, learning new skills and meeting locals.
According to Trip Advisor,
millennials are largely influenced by
o tourist attractions
o activities
o proximity to transportation
o accommodations
And are willing to compromise by
o taking shorter trips
o choosing cheaper transportation
o choosing cheaper accommodations
As Generation Y begins to out-number the rest of the population, the
needs and wants of traveling are evolving. While millennials search for
new experiences, hospitality designers are looking for new ways to
attract their audience. By focusing on what the new generation is
seeking when traveling, including location, efficiency, relationships
and sustainability, structures are being redesigned to provide exactly
what today’s travelers want.
2
6
815 Graphic Provided by The Culture-ist

3. environmental
changes
inequality
skill & resource
shortage
societal
challenges
external
environment
financial
challenges
innovation
Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
millennials & sustainability
A survey provided by Pew Research has found that
Generation Y is more likely to:
o support stricter environmental laws
o attribute global warming to human activity
o favor environmentally friendly policies
o pay more for responsibly made products
o choose buses and bikes over cars
In addition:
o 71% of millennials say we should focus on
developing alternative energy sources rather than
expanding oil, coal and natural gas exploration
o 82% of millennials favor increased federal funding
for wind, solar and hydrogen technologies.
According to Brookings, millennials will impact the
structure of the US economy by:
o emphasizing corporate social responsibility, ethical
causes, and strong brand loyalty for companies
offering solutions to specific social problems
o having a greater reverence for the environment
o placing higher worth on experiences over materials
o making local-based sustainability a priority
challenges facing society that
milllennials feel demand attention
24%
23%
16%
15%
10%
8%
7%
6 9
10
11

4. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
the experience
The urban pod is a LEED certified structure that is
designed specifically to meet the needs of each
aspect of sustainability while providing only the
most basic amenities of short term lodging.
Although there are currently a handful of LEED
(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
certified hotels, the concept of the urban pod is
designed to make an impact beyond the
structure and to endorse sustainability within the
whole city, rather than focusing on the hotel
itself. It offers unique perspectives and optimal
opportunities as it can be placed virtually
anywhere, such as a park or building rooftop. It
encourages travelers, as well as locals, to
contribute to the city’s socio-ecological
wellbeing, while reaping the benefits themselves.
The pod works in conjunction with the entire
community to promote the utmost responsibility
of sustainability, including environmental,
cultural, economic and personal, while
providing a truly authentic and valuable
experience. 5

5. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
the structure
The urban pod’s basic amenities include a bed,
which is open underneath to store luggage and
a bathroom with shower, which is ADA
(Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible.
Windows wrap around the top of the structure to
provide both light and privacy.

6. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
LEED certification
With its green building initiatives,
LEED’s intent is to “transform the
way we think about how buildings
are designed, constructed,
maintained and operated. Its
certification program is designed
to recognize building strategies
and practice that have a positive
impact on the health of the
occupant, while promoting clean,
renewable energy. To achieve
certification, projects follow a
rating system and satisfy credits to
earn points. The number of points
determines the level of
certification.
The urban pod would address
three of LEED’s project types –
building design and construction,
interior design and construction,
and building operations and
maintenance.
Among others, the urban pod would aim to achieve the following credits:
Location & Transportation:
sensitive land protection
high priority site
access to quality transit
surrounding density and diverse uses
bicycle facilities
Indoor Environmental Quality:
low-emitting materials
thermal comfort
daylight
quality views
enhanced indoor air quality strategies
acoustic performance
Sustainable Sites:
site assessment
open space
rainwater management
light pollution reduction
construction activity pollution prevention
Water Efficiency:
outdoor water use reduction
indoor water use reduction
water metering
Materials & Resources:
storage and collection of recyclables
construction waste management
building life-cycle impact reduction
environmental product declarations
sourcing of raw materials
material ingredients
Energy & Atmosphere:
optimized energy performance
advanced energy metering
renewable energy production
green power and carbon offsets
4

7. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
environment

8. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
alternative energy
Depending on location and resources, the urban pod
may be able to take advantage of alternative energy
Solar Power &
Water Heating
Wind
Energy
Geothermal
Energy
Pedal
Power

9. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
pedal power
One of the most interesting sources of power will
come from pedal power, or energy sourced from
pedaling a bicycle. The urban pod will provide
each traveler a bicycle that could be used for
transportation around the city to limit the use of
fossil fuels or as a stationary bicycle to produce
energy. An adult can generate, on average,
about seventy-five watts for two hours of
pedaling, which computes to three to six hours of
computer power. Additional stationary bicycles
may be integrated to a nearby area accessible
to the public as well, offering locals the
opportunity to exercise in exchange for energy. 14

10. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
green roof / water recycling
benefits of a green roof / wall:
waste diversion
stormwater management
moderation of urban heat island effect
improved air quality
aesthetically pleasing
creation on recreational areas
local job creation
energy efficiency
roof durability
reduction of radiation
noise reduction
marketing
increased biodiversity
improved health and wellbeing
urban agriculture
educational opportunities
water recycling:
Rainwater can be collected
in barrels, cisterns or rooftop
systems and can be used for
irrigation.
Greywater comes from
bathroom sinks, showers and
washing machines. Although
it may contain dirt it is safe,
and can even beneficial, to
recycle greywater by using it
for irrigation or as toilet
water.
1

11. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
sustainability principles
the urban pod adheres to the sustainability principles by:
o reducing and eliminating use of materials drawn from
Earth's crust such as gasoline, coal, and oil by practicing
alternative methods of energy production and
manufacturing, and limiting vehicle transportation by
constructing locally with native materials
o reducing and eliminating use of chemicals and
compounds produced by society by sourcing organic
materials that require minimal treatment
o reducing and eliminating physical degradation of nature
and natural processes by requiring little space, sourcing
renewable resources and limiting waste that will contribute
to landfills
o reducing and eliminating contributions that undermine
people’s capacity to meet their basic human needs by
encouraging community involvement, setting high
standards of human welfare and producing a healthy
environment
in a sustainable society, nature is not
subject to systematically increasing…
…concentrations of substances
extracted from the Earth’s crust
…concentrations of substances
produced by society
…degradation by physical means
and, in that society…
…people are not subject to
conditions that systematically
undermined their capacity to meet
their needs 12

12. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
the living principles
Environmental
Actions and issues that
affect natural systems,
including climate
change, preservation,
carbon footprint and
restoration of natural
resources.
People
Actions and issues that
affect all aspects of
society, including
poverty, violence,
injustice, education,
healthcare, safe
housing, labor and
human rights.
Economy
Actions and issues that
affect how people and
organizations meet their
basic needs, evolve
and define economic
success and growth.
Culture
Actions and issues that
affect how
communities manifest
identity, preserve and
cultivate traditions,
and develop belief
systems and commonly
accepted values.
3
Graphic Provided by TheLivingPrinciples.org

13. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
socio-economic benefits
Environmental
The urban pod would be
designed specifically for its
designated location and
climate so it can take
advantage of natural
resources. Depending on the
area, the pod could
incorporate ideas such as
passive design, green roofs,
grey-water systems and
alternative energy sources. In
addition, a small footprint
would limit the amount of
materials needed, which
could come from renewable,
repurposed and organic
materials.
Cultural
The urban pod’s unique
concept would be intriguing,
affordable and accessible,
attracting an abundance of
visitors with whom culture can
be shared. Travelers will be
able to experience more of
the community and at a
deeper level from an exclusive
perspective as they are
indulged within the culture. The
design and construction of the
pod, which would incorporate
and celebrate culture, would
provide jobs to local
community members as well as
create a sense of pride. The
urban pod would influence
other parts of the city to
become sustainable as well,
thus encouraging a healthier
society.
Personal
The concept of the urban
pod, its small size and
prime location can save
time and allow visitors to
see more of the city by
foot or bicycle. It
increases interaction and
exploration and provides
many health benefits.
from exercise to cleaner
air. Guests will feel good
about where they are
staying and locals will
appreciated the positive
development.
Economical
The urban pod is less expensive
than conventional hotels and
ultimately saves both the
traveler and community
money. The visitor will save
money on transportation and
could be compensated for the
energy they produce through
pedal power. The community
can save money through the
use of local materials, the cost
of shipping and alternative
energy, as well as profit by
partnering with the urban pod
to support local businesses.

14. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
service model
Local contractors and community members will build each urban pod.
Since the pods are designed for specific locations, sustainable design
concepts will be dictated by climate and culture. Contractors will work with
city development to decide the location, which will be most advantageous
to place the urban pods. The development of the pod would call for a
variety of skills and services including construction, architecture, industrial
design, interior design, furniture making, carpentry and urban planners that
could all be found within the community.
Like a prefabricated house, the urban pod will be primarily constructed off
site, but locally where all necessary tools and materials would be
accessible, limiting transportation and saving time. It would also reduce
noise and construction within the city, which is unappealing to locals and
visitors. When the pod is complete, it will be transferred to its permanent site.
The urban pod will be locally owned and operated. Though the pod itself
will have a sole owner who will be financially responsible for the structure
and maintenance of the pod, the community will also be instrumental in
providing the unique experience that the pod aims to deliver.
Since the urban pod does not offer the services typically provided by a
hotel, there is no need to have staff members on site. However it will be
necessary to clean rooms between occupants and provide general
maintenance, which will be the responsibility of the owner. After booking
online, guests will be given a code specific to their room that will be
activated at the time of their check-in. Or, the owner can appoint a nearby
local business, such as a restaurant or information center, to manage
check-in and administer room keys. This option would benefit both the local
community and traveler, which is the ultimate goal of the urban pod.
who is involved?
o property site owner
o city planning and zoning department
o Environmental Protection Agency
o city utilities
o health department
o fire department
o building inspector
o contractor
o architect
o interior designer
o engineer
o builder
o electrician
o plumber
o sustainability specialist
13

15. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
electronic concierge
To further involve the community and aid in the sustainable
experience, the urban pod will offer an electronic concierge.
The information and services provided by the electronic
concierge could be accessed through the pod’s website or
downloaded as an app and will include:
o maps
o tour information
o museums / attraction locations
o shop and restaurant suggestions
o discounts for local attractions & businesses
o volunteer opportunities
Personal Guide Program
As pride within the city grows, locals will be excited to show
off their culture. The personal guide program would allow
members of the community to volunteer by registering to
share their knowledge and time with the pod’s guests and
perhaps, with enough volunteers, beyond that. Guests would
be able to requests guides based on interests, background
and education to show them around the city. The program
would provide a personalized tour and a unique experience
while strengthening relationship around the world.

16. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
works cited
1. "Green Roof Benefits - GRHC WEBSITE." GRHC WEBSITE. Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, n.d. Web. 14 Dec. 2014.
2. "How Millennials Compromise on Travel Costs” TripAdvisor for Business. TripAdvisor LLC, 9 July 2014. Web. 04 Dec. 2014.
3. "Introduction." The Living Principles. The Living Principles, n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2014.
4. "LEED Credit Library." U.S. Green Building Council. U.S. Green Building Council, n.d. Web. 14 Dec. 2014.
5. Making an Impact through Sustainability. Digital image. The Energy Co-op. The Energy Co-op, n.d. Web. 15 Dec. 2014.
6. "Meet Your Lucrative Millennial Traveler." TripAdvisor for Business. TripAdvisor LLC, 9 July 2014. Web. 04 Dec. 2014.
7. "Millennials Want Companies That Work On Innovative Ways To Fix The World." Fast Company. Ed. Morgan Clendaniel.
Mansueto Ventures, LLC, 07 Feb. 2014. Web. 15 Dec. 2014.
8. Nelson, Carlota. "The Rise of Volun-Tourism." NH Hoteles. N.p., 22 July 2014. Web. 11 Dec. 2014.

17. Jillian Schultz / December 2014
The Urban Pod.
works cited
9. Pechar, Emily. "Sustainable Millennials." Sense & Sustainability. Sense & Sustainability, 8 Aug. 2014. Web. 14 Dec. 2014.
10.Rayapura, Aarthi. "Millennials Most Sustainability-Conscious Generation Yet, But Don't Call Them 'Environmentalists'“
Sustainablebrands.com. Sustainable Life Media Inc., 11 Mar. 2014. Web. 14 Dec. 2014.
11. "Section 8: Domestic and Foreign Policy Views." Pew Research Center for the People and the Press RSS. Pew Research Center,
03 Nov. 2011. Web. 14 Dec. 2014.
12. The Four System Conditions of a Sustainable Society. Digital image. The Natural Step. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Dec. 2014.
13.WBDG Project Management Committee. "Project Delivery Teams." Project Delivery Teams. National Institute of Building
Sciences, 9 Dec. 2014. Web. 11 Dec. 2014.
14. Wekin, Andy. "Pedal Power -- Human Scale Energy For Everyday Tasks.” Kickstarter. Kickstarter Inc., n.d. Web. 3 Dec. 2014.
15. Why Travel Cultivates Happiness. Digital image. The Culture-ist. The Culture-ist, 20 Mar. 2013. Web. 15 Dec. 2014.