This futurist high elevation retreat resembles a drop of mercury and distinctively reminds me of what locals call “The Bean” in Chicago’s Millenium Park (aka Cloud Gate).  Tourists stare into the mysterious art piece, take fun photos and throw their hats up into the hollow center.  No doubt Ross Lovegrove’s new project will be a work of modern art, but may also serve as a high elevation getaway.   Scheduled to begin construction in Italy in 2010, this pod will be solar & wind-turbine powered and is designed with a double glass exterior covered with a special reflective coating, completed transparent from the inside allowing guests a 360 degree view of their natural surroundings while cozy and warm, including enjoying a starlit sky in the comfort of bed. 

Do you think this distracts from the natural beauty of the landscape or do you think its a great idea to be able to enjoy it more fully whilst keeping warm?  

 {Via Inhabitat}