Project: TipiTop Tents, Glamping Tents
Architecture: Canobardin
Location: Tarragona, Spain
Area: 1500 m2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Imagen Subliminal (Miguel de Guzmán + RocÃo Romero)
Camping has long been associated with a deep connection to nature, simplicity, and adventure. However, recent changes in lifestyle, particularly after the pandemic, have reshaped the way we perceive and experience outdoor living. Now, more than ever, people yearn to break free from the confinements of indoor life and embrace the open spaces of nature. In this context, TipiTop Tents has emerged as a symbol of this newfound freedom and reconnection with the outdoors.
A Shift in Habits and Mentalities
The pandemic has fundamentally altered how people approach their living environments and travel experiences. Terraces and outdoor spaces have become valuable assets, while dark, cramped apartments are no longer desirable. People seek nature, light, and space. This shift has naturally impacted the tourism industry, particularly the camping sector, which has seen a surge in interest and demand.
Camping has evolved beyond traditional tent setups to offer modern, comfortable, and eco-friendly experiences. Family tourism, recreational areas, and immersive experiences in nature are now at the forefront of the sector’s development. As camping grows in popularity, innovative solutions like TipiTop Tents are leading the way.
The Birth of TipiTop Tents
TipiTop Tents was conceived after six years of work by the Canobardin architecture studio. The team’s extensive experience in the camping industry led them to realize a significant gap in the market. While glamping tents were available, they often lacked the refinement and design compatibility needed for European projects. Traditional tents were either too primitive or featured aesthetics that didn’t align with European standards.
This gap inspired the creation of TipiTop Tents, a modern, sleek version of the camping tent. The design draws from the universal image of a tent: a simple triangular prism. Using laminated pine wood, the structure is formed by three porticoes that support the tarpaulins, giving shape to the tent while also organizing the interior space.
Design Meets Comfort and Sustainability
The structure of the TipiTop Tent is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Inside, the space is divided into a public living area with a kitchen, a private bathroom, and two double rooms. One room is on the ground floor, while the other is located in a loft, connected by a compact staircase. The choice of materials—wood, fabric, and recyclable panels—creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, with colors ranging from natural wood tones to soft sands and whites.
Every detail has been meticulously crafted to offer a cohesive experience. From furniture and fabrics to lighting and appliances, the design ensures a harmonious and comfortable living environment. The tents are not just places to sleep; they are spaces to live, designed to immerse guests in nature while providing modern comforts.
A Sustainable and Climatically Comfortable Design
The exterior design of TipiTop Tents features front and rear facades made of sanded pine wood and glass, while the sides are closed with two layers of tarpaulins. The inner tarpaulin, made of breathable cotton, is paired with an outer waterproof PVC layer. This innovative layering system creates an air cushion that serves as insulation, providing climatic comfort and preventing the greenhouse effect inside the tent.
TipiTop Tents are more than just individual units—they create entire landscapes. When set up in clusters, the tents interact with their surroundings, integrating with the natural environment. During the day, the play of light and shadows from trees creates a visual harmony. At night, the tents transform into glowing lanterns, illuminating the area and creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Expanding the TipiTop Experience
The success of TipiTop Tents has already been demonstrated in several locations. Currently, 34 tents are set up at Tamarit Beach Resort in Tarragona, and another 40 tents have been installed at the Costa del Sol Glamping Village. These installations are just the beginning. As more people seek unique outdoor experiences that combine nature with modern design, TipiTop Tents is set to become a camping icon.
TipiTop Tents is redefining the camping experience, turning the traditional tent into a stylish, comfortable, and sustainable home away from home. Whether you’re camping by the beach or nestled in the mountains, these tents offer a perfect blend of nature and design, making every camping trip a memorable one.
