Seven-layer walls
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Backyard Pod
More than just an office.
More than just a cabin.
A flexible outdoor space designed for focus, creativity, retreat, and intentional living.
Free shipping straight to your door.
Pre-fab, pre-wired, up in 1-2 days.
The backyard, but make it yours.
Trusted modern workspace design Introducing Autonomous
Autonomous has become a recognized name in modern workspace design, trusted by professionals, startups, remote teams, and companies across the technology and creative industries.
Its products and workspace systems have been adopted within environments connected to globally recognized brands including Google, Microsoft, Shopify, Zoom, Airbnb, LinkedIn, Intel, Nvidia, and other innovation-driven companies.
This wider adoption reflects what first drew Between Living to the WorkPod collection: thoughtful design, practical simplicity, and spaces that support the way people increasingly want to live and work today.
Rather than treating the backyard as unused space, Autonomous reimagines it as an extension of focus, creativity, flexibility, and intentional daily living.
Why Between Living chose Autonomous
What Makes Them Different
Why Between Living chose Autonomous
What Makes Them Different
Purposeful Design
Different models allow clients to choose a space that fits their lifestyle, property, and intended use.
Built for Real Living
Weatherproof, insulated, and designed for year-round comfort, WorkPods support both productivity and restoration.
Plug-and-Play Simplicity
With built-in electrical readiness and a single connection point, the experience feels more accessible than traditional construction.
Flexible Setup
Designed for grass, gravel, concrete, and slightly uneven ground, WorkPods can integrate into many outdoor environments.
A Natural Fit for Sanctuary Living
Whether used for work, creativity, meditation, guest space, or retreat, the WorkPod supports the broader Between Living vision: spaces that help people live with more clarity, comfort, and intention.
Your backyard office, ready in days.
Install in 1-2 days • Pre-wired • No permits in most cities.
Trusted by millions worldwide • NYTimes • Business Insider • Dezeen • Hypebeast
Compare the 3 models
METROPOD
$18,900
Size80 sq ft
Best forSmall Yards
Solar Opt.No
Shipping✓ Free
Most Popular
WORKPOD
$20,900
Size102 sq ft
Best forWork From Home
Solar Opt.✓ Yes
Shipping✓ Free
STUDIOPOD
$22,900
Size105 sq ft
Best forWork & Play
Solar Opt.✓ Yes
Shipping✓ Free
No permits in most cities
Under 120 sq ft, permit-free in most U.S. cities.
Pre-wired, plug and play
Built-in electrical with a single cable connection.
6 layer insulated walls
Soundproof, weatherproof, year-round comfort.
Up in 1-2 days
No crane, no foundation, no construction crew.
Adjustable foundation
Sits on any ground: grass, gravel, or concrete.
Weather & damp proof panels
Prefab panels built for all-weather performance.
1-year warranty on all models
Get to know Backyard Pod
Designed for real outdoor living.
Explore the details
Prefab panels
Weatherproof • Damp-proof
80 to 105 sq. ft
No permit required
Built-in electricity
Zero cost • Plug and play
Adjustable bases
Zero cost • Any ground
Modular design
Ready in days • Not months
MetroPod
WorkPod
StudioPod
Which Pod Is Right For You?
A clear side-by-side guide to help you choose the Backyard Pod that best fits your space, rhythm, and intended use.
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Tap any pod to magnify
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WorkPod
↗
102 sq. ft12'L × 8.5'W floorspace
☀
Solar panel readyOptional solar integration
°
45 - 100°FOptimal insulation range
◌
5/16" insulated glassTempered glass + honeycomb paper sound insulation
□
2.9 tonsWeight capacity included
⚡
2750WMaximum wattage
Material •
Plywood, wooden frame, honeycomb paper, housewrap, metal siding, roof shingle.
What's inside
1. SmartDesk2 2. ErgoChair Ultra 2 Plus 3. Cable Tray 4. Filing Cabinet 5. Anti-Fatigue Mat
Shipping
Most US states •
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StudioPod
↗
105 sq. ft12.5'L × 8.4'W floorspace
☀
Solar panel optionalExpandable off-grid setup
°
40 - 105°FOptimal insulation range
◌
5/16" insulated glassTempered glass + honeycomb paper sound insulation
□
2.9 tonsWeight capacity included
⚡
2750WMaximum wattage
Material •
Plywood, steel frame, honeycomb paper, housewrap, metal siding, roof shingle.
What's inside
No furniture included.
Shipping
Most US states •
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MetroPod
↗
80 sq. ft8.9'W × 9'L × 9.25'H overall size
☀
No solar panelMinimal streamlined setup
°
50 - 95°FOptimal insulation range
◌
Sound insulatedInsulated wall system for focused work
□
2.3 tonsWeight capacity included
⚡
2750WMaximum wattage
Material
Plywood, steel frame, housewrap, metal siding, metal roof
What's inside
No furniture included.
Shipping
Most US states •
Backyard Pod Setup Inspiration
Backyard Office Pod FAQ
Questions, answered with clarity.
A refined guide to permits, installation, comfort, model differences, and what to expect before choosing your Autonomous backyard office pod.
What is a backyard office pod?
A backyard office pod is a separate, self-contained workspace installed in your yard, giving you a quiet, dedicated place to work without adding on to your home.
It is built for full-time use: insulated, powered, and designed for tasks that require focus. For remote workers, it creates a cleaner boundary between work and home life than a spare bedroom or kitchen table typically can.
Why choose a prefab backyard office pod instead of building from scratch?
Building from scratch can mean managing contractors, permits, timelines, and cost overruns, with a custom build potentially taking 6 to 12 months before the space is ready to use.
A prefab pod arrives engineered for the job, installs in days, and reduces much of that complexity. It can also be easier to move or reconfigure later if your needs change.
Do backyard office pods require a permit?
It depends on your local zoning rules. In many U.S. cities, accessory structures under 120 square feet may not require a building permit, but regulations vary significantly by municipality, HOA, and lot size.
Structures with permanent foundations or plumbing are more likely to trigger permit requirements. Always check your local zoning and ADU requirements before purchasing.
How much does a backyard office pod cost?
Current models generally fall in the $18,900 to $30,900 range depending on size and features.
MetroPod is the compact entry-level option, WorkPod sits in the middle as the balanced everyday workspace, and StudioPod is the larger multi-use option.
What's the best way to choose between the three models?
Start with three questions: How much yard space do you have? How will you use the pod day to day? Do you need flexibility beyond a standard work setup?
If yard space is tight and your needs are straightforward, consider MetroPod. If you want a comfortable everyday workspace with room to breathe, WorkPod is the balanced choice. If you want more room and multi-purpose capability, StudioPod offers the greatest flexibility.
Which model is right for a smaller yard?
MetroPod is the best fit for smaller outdoor spaces. It provides a functional, dedicated workspace without taking over the yard and has the most compact footprint in the lineup.
Which model is the best all-around choice?
WorkPod is the most balanced option for many buyers. It provides enough room for a full desk setup, comfortable daily use, and focused work without the additional size and multi-purpose emphasis of StudioPod.
It is particularly well suited to full-time remote workers who want more room than MetroPod.
Which model gives the most flexibility?
StudioPod is the right choice if you want a space that does more than hold a desk. It offers more room to spread out, supports flexible furniture arrangements, and works well for creative projects, client meetings, or other multi-purpose uses.
How long does installation take?
Installation is typically completed within 2 to 7 days after delivery, depending on the model, site conditions, and any ground preparation required.
Your site should be accessible and appropriately prepared for installation.
Can I move the pod if I relocate or reconfigure my yard?
Yes. These structures are modular and do not require a permanent foundation, giving them more flexibility than a traditional room addition or poured-concrete structure.
The pod can be disassembled and relocated if needed.
Can the pods be used year-round?
Yes. The pods are built with insulated wall systems and weather-ready materials designed to help maintain a stable interior across seasons.
Paired with appropriate heating or cooling for your climate, they can be used throughout the year.
Are backyard office pods quiet enough for calls and meetings?
Yes. They are designed to reduce outside noise and create a more private environment than a converted shed or shared home space.
They are not fully soundproof, but background noise from the yard, street, or household is noticeably reduced, making them suitable for daily calls, video meetings, and focused work.
Do the pods come with power?
Yes. They are designed to work with standard U.S. household power so you can run everyday office equipment such as laptops, monitors, lighting, and other daily-use devices.
The power connection runs from your home to the pod.
Can I use heating or air conditioning in a backyard pod?
Yes. The pods are compatible with common heating and cooling solutions, including mini-split systems, portable AC units, and electric heaters.
The appropriate system depends on your climate and how you plan to use the space year-round.
What exactly is the MetroPod? Is it a mini pod or a full ADU?
MetroPod sits in its own category. It is a prefab mini office pod designed specifically for backyard use, smaller than a full ADU but far more functional than a basic shed.
At 80 square feet, it provides a private, insulated, fully wired workspace without the complexity normally associated with larger structures.
How is MetroPod different from a regular garden shed or tiny ADU?
A garden shed is typically built for storage. A full tiny ADU is a permitted dwelling that may include plumbing and substantially greater construction complexity.
MetroPod sits between them, providing insulation, sound reduction, power, and usable ergonomic workspace without functioning as a full dwelling.
What's the difference between MetroPod and WorkPod?
MetroPod is the compact entry model at 80 square feet, best suited to smaller yards and focused solo work.
WorkPod is 102 square feet and provides more interior room for a full office setup, with additional configuration options.
What can I use MetroPod for besides a home office?
MetroPod can be used as a home office, art studio, music room, gaming studio, therapy space, or another private creative space that benefits from being separate from the main house.
Is MetroPod a good option for full-time remote workers?
Yes. MetroPod was designed to provide a dedicated workspace separate from the home, helping reduce household distractions and create a clearer distinction between work and personal time.
Its insulation, sound-reducing construction, and pre-wired power make it suitable for regular daily use.
Do I need a permit to install MetroPod in my backyard?
MetroPod is 80 square feet, which is below the permit threshold in many U.S. jurisdictions.
However, local zoning, HOA, and building requirements vary, so always confirm the rules that apply to your property before installation.
Do you provide building plans for HOA or permit documentation?
Yes. Autonomous can supply building plans for HOA submissions or permit documentation upon request.
How much space do I need in my backyard for MetroPod?
The MetroPod footprint is approximately 9' x 9'. For comfortable access and airflow around the unit, an area of roughly 18' x 18' is recommended.
What surfaces can I install MetroPod on?
The adjustable foundation feet allow installation on grass, gravel, dirt, concrete, brick, or slightly sloped ground without requiring a poured foundation, grading, or excavation in typical installations.
Can I install MetroPod on a slope?
Yes. Its six height-adjustable foundation feet are designed to accommodate uneven or sloped ground.
How hard is MetroPod to assemble? Do I need a contractor?
Assembly can be completed DIY or with a contractor. Autonomous recommends 2 to 3 people for optimal results, with most installations completing in approximately 1 to 2 days.
How long does shipping take, and what does delivery look like?
Shipping timelines vary, so refer to the current product information for the latest estimate.
MetroPod arrives in modular panels and does not require a crane for standard delivery and assembly.
Can I move MetroPod if I relocate?
Yes. MetroPod is not permanently attached to the ground and can be disassembled and relocated if needed.
What makes MetroPod sound-insulating?
The walls use a multi-layer construction including plywood, a steel frame, housewrap, and insulated metal siding.
This construction is designed to reduce external noise and help contain interior sound for calls and focused work.
Can I add heating and air conditioning?
Yes. MetroPod is compatible with portable AC units and mini-split systems, allowing you to choose a solution appropriate for your climate.
Can the walls support shelves and fixtures?
Yes. The walls can accommodate standard fixtures such as shelves and frames.
Because power lines run inside the walls, avoid drilling deeply near electrical runs. Interior technical layouts can be requested from Autonomous when needed for safe mounting locations.
How does the MetroPod power connection work?
A single outdoor-rated cable runs from your home's existing outlet or electrical supply to the pod. Interior wiring is concealed.
Maximum power is 2,750W at 110V/25A.
What's the weight capacity of the MetroPod foundation?
The stated foundation capacity is 2.3 tons including the pod body itself, providing substantial capacity for a normal office configuration.
Does MetroPod come with a warranty?
Yes. MetroPod includes a 1-year warranty. Autonomous can provide full warranty terms and coverage details.
Is there a free trial period?
No standard trial period applies to the pod itself because assembly and setup vary depending on the installation environment.
A 30-day trial may apply to qualifying Autonomous furniture products included in a furnished option.
What is the Autonomous WorkPod?
WorkPod is a premium prefab backyard work pod purpose-built for remote professionals who need a dedicated workspace.
At 102 square feet, it provides enough room for a full office configuration with a desk, ergonomic chair, monitors, and storage. It is insulated and weatherproofed for everyday use just steps from the main home.
What's the difference between WorkPod and MetroPod?
WorkPod provides 102 square feet compared with MetroPod's 80 square feet, giving you more room for a full desk setup, storage, and comfortable daily use.
MetroPod is the more compact entry model for smaller yards and simpler setups.
What's the difference between WorkPod and StudioPod?
WorkPod is optimized for focused daily work. StudioPod is slightly larger at 105 square feet and designed for broader multi-purpose use, including creative projects, entertainment, client meetings, or flexible lifestyle use.
Can I buy the furniture in the furnished option separately?
Yes. Furniture offered with furnished configurations can also be available individually through Autonomous.
Do I need a permit to install WorkPod?
WorkPod is 102 square feet, which is below the permit threshold in many U.S. jurisdictions.
Because local zoning, HOA, and building rules vary, always check with your local building department or HOA before installation.
Do you provide building plans for HOA or permit documentation?
Yes. Autonomous can provide building plans and technical drawings for HOA submissions, local permit applications, or personal records upon request.
How much space do I need in my backyard for WorkPod?
The WorkPod footprint is 8.5' wide x 12' long. For comfortable access and airflow, an area of approximately 17' x 24' is recommended.
What surfaces can I install WorkPod on?
The six height-adjustable foundation feet allow installation on grass, gravel, dirt, concrete, brick, or appropriately sloped ground without requiring a poured foundation in typical installations.
Can I install WorkPod on a slope?
Yes. The adjustable foundation is designed to accommodate uneven ground. For optimal stability, slopes should not exceed approximately 5 degrees, or around 4.5 inches of rise.
How hard is WorkPod to assemble? Do I need a contractor?
Assembly can be completed DIY or with a contractor. Autonomous recommends 2 to 3 people for optimal results, with most installations completing in approximately 1 to 2 days.
How long does shipping take, and what does delivery look like?
Current guidance indicates approximately one week from order to use in applicable circumstances, although timing can vary.
WorkPod ships in crates with components and tools included, and a crane is not required for standard assembly. Refer to current product information for the latest shipping estimate.
Can I move WorkPod if I relocate?
Yes. WorkPod is not permanently attached to the ground and can be disassembled and reassembled at a new location.
What makes WorkPod sound-insulating?
The walls use premium thermal and sound-reducing materials including plywood, a wooden frame, honeycomb material, housewrap, and metal siding.
The glass is 5/16" tempered. Together, these materials are designed to support a quieter environment for calls, focused work, and video meetings.
Can WorkPod be used year-round?
Yes. WorkPod is weatherproofed and insulated for use across a wide range of temperatures.
It is compatible with portable AC units and mini-split systems for hot climates, while a small personal electric heater can be used for colder conditions.
Can I customize the window location?
Yes. WorkPod is available with windows positioned on either the right side or left side, allowing you to select the configuration that best suits your backyard layout.
How does the WorkPod power connection work?
A single outdoor-rated cable connects from your home's existing electrical supply to the pod, with interior wiring concealed inside the structure.
Maximum power is 2,750W at 110V/25A. WorkPod includes 3 universal wall outlets, a ceiling light, ventilator, and Ethernet connection.
Can I add a solar panel?
Yes. A solar panel configuration is available for WorkPod.
Can I add heating and air conditioning?
Yes. WorkPod is compatible with portable AC units and mini-split systems, so you can choose the system that fits your climate and requirements.
A small personal electric heater can be used for heating.
What is the weight capacity of the WorkPod foundation?
The stated foundation capacity is 2.9 tons, providing substantial capacity for a normal office setup.
What are the WorkPod dimensions?
Overall size is 8.5' W x 12' L x 11' H. Ceiling height ranges from approximately 6.8' to 9.3'. Gross floor area is 102 square feet.
Does WorkPod come with a warranty?
Yes. WorkPod includes a 1-year warranty. Autonomous can provide full warranty terms and coverage details.
Is there a free trial period?
There is no standard trial period for the pod itself because assembly and setup vary by installation environment.
A 30-day trial may apply to qualifying Autonomous furniture products included in a furnished option.
What is the Autonomous StudioPod?
StudioPod is a 105 square foot prefab backyard studio designed for more than just work.
It is the largest and most flexible model in the lineup, designed for people who want a space that can adapt between a home office, creative studio, entertainment room, guest overflow space, or private retreat.
What's the difference between StudioPod and WorkPod?
WorkPod is 102 square feet and optimized for focused daily work. StudioPod is 105 square feet and designed around flexibility, supporting broader furniture configurations and more varied uses.
If your needs extend beyond a traditional work setup, StudioPod is the more adaptable choice.
What is a studio pod, and is StudioPod one?
A studio pod is a prefab backyard structure built for multi-purpose creative or lifestyle use rather than simple storage or one fixed function.
StudioPod fits this category with insulation, sound-reducing construction, power, large windows, and enough interior space to configure for different day-to-day needs.
What can I use StudioPod for?
StudioPod can serve as a home office, art or music studio, podcast or recording room, gaming room, yoga or meditation space, guest sleeping space, client meeting room, hobby studio, or private retreat.
Is StudioPod a good prefab studio shed option?
Yes. It combines premium metal siding, honeycomb insulation, a sturdy structural frame, large windows, and multiple wall outlets to function as a daily workspace or creative studio rather than a basic converted storage shed.
How does StudioPod work as a modular backyard studio?
StudioPod ships in modular panels that are assembled on site. Its adjustable foundation accommodates a range of ground types, and a single outdoor cable connects the structure to your home's power.
Once assembled, it functions as a powered, insulated, weatherproofed standalone room in your backyard.
Do I need a permit to install StudioPod?
StudioPod is 105 square feet, which is below the 120 square foot permit threshold used in many U.S. jurisdictions.
However, zoning and HOA rules vary, so always confirm local requirements before installation.
Do you supply building plans?
Yes. Autonomous can provide building plans and technical drawings for HOA submissions, permit applications, or personal records upon request.
How much space does StudioPod require?
The footprint is 8.4' W x 12.5' L. For comfortable access and airflow, an area of approximately 17' x 25' is recommended.
What surfaces can StudioPod be installed on?
The adjustable foundation feet allow installation on grass, gravel, dirt, concrete, brick, or slightly sloped ground without requiring a poured foundation in typical installations.
Can I set StudioPod up on a slope?
Yes. The foundation can accommodate mild slopes. For best results, keep the slope under approximately 5 degrees, or about 4.5 inches of rise. Greater slopes may require leveling first.
How long does StudioPod assembly take?
Most installations complete in approximately 1 to 2 days with 2 to 3 people.
I'm not a builder. Will I be able to assemble StudioPod?
StudioPod is designed to be DIY-friendly, using modular panels and included assembly guides for the available configurations.
Autonomous recommends 2 to 3 people for optimal results.
Do you offer assembly services?
Autonomous currently has a contractor network available in California, with expansion to additional regions planned.
Can I move StudioPod after it's installed?
Yes. StudioPod is not permanently attached to the ground and can be disassembled and reassembled at a new location.
What makes StudioPod sound-insulating?
The walls use a multi-layer construction including plywood, structural framing, eco-friendly honeycomb insulation, housewrap, and metal siding.
All glass is 5/16" tempered. The construction is designed to reduce external noise and help maintain stable interior temperatures.
Can StudioPod be used year-round?
Yes. StudioPod is weatherproofed and insulated for year-round use across a wide range of climates.
It is compatible with portable AC units and mini-split systems for warmer conditions, while a small personal electric heater can be used for colder weather.
Can I customize the door location?
Yes. StudioPod is available with the door positioned on the right side or left side so the configuration can better suit your backyard layout.
Can the walls support shelves and additional fixtures?
Yes. The walls can accommodate standard fixtures such as shelves, frames, and other wall-mounted items.
Because electrical lines run inside the walls, avoid drilling deeply near electrical runs. Interior technical layouts can be requested from Autonomous when needed for safe mounting locations.
How does the StudioPod power connection work?
A single outdoor-rated cable connects from your home's existing electrical supply to the pod, with the interior wiring concealed.
StudioPod includes 5 universal wall outlets, 4 ceiling lights, 1 ventilator, and 2 Ethernet ports. Maximum power is 2,750W at 110V/25A.
Can I add a solar panel?
Yes. A solar panel configuration is available for StudioPod.
Can I install heating and air conditioning?
Yes. StudioPod is compatible with portable AC units and mini-split systems, allowing you to select a climate-control solution appropriate for your location.
A small personal electric heater can be used for heating.
What is the weight capacity of the StudioPod foundation?
The stated foundation capacity is 2.9 tons, providing substantial capacity for a normal office or lifestyle configuration.
What are the StudioPod dimensions?
Overall size is 8.4' W x 12.5' L x 9.8' H. Ceiling height is approximately 7.25'. Gross floor area is 105 square feet.
What furniture is included in the furnished option?
The furnished configuration includes a cabinet, desk, small and large bookshelf, TV shelf, foldable sofa, sofa table, and electrical cabinet.
The foldable sofa can also serve as a guest sleeping surface.
Is financing available for StudioPod?
Yes. Financing options are available. Current eligibility and financing terms can vary.
What warranty does StudioPod come with?
StudioPod includes a 1-year warranty. Autonomous can provide full warranty terms and coverage details.
Is there a free trial for StudioPod?
There is no standard trial period for the pod itself because assembly and setup vary by installation environment.
A 30-day trial may apply to qualifying Autonomous furniture products included in a furnished option.
Begin your project
Tell us about the space you’re envisioning.
Share your goals, property details, and timeline. Between Living will help organize your inquiry and guide you toward the appropriate Autonomous consultation pathway.
Attach photos after your email opens
After you click “Open Email to Share Your Vision,” your email app will open with your project details prepared. You can then attach backyard photos, site images, or inspiration pictures before sending.
A tiny last step: after your email opens, remember to attach photos and press send.
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WorkPod Consultation
Prepare for your conversation.
Share a few details so your WorkPod consultation can begin with the right context around your project, location, and timeline.
A more prepared consultation
Your details help provide useful context before the next step, so the conversation can focus more clearly on your WorkPod project and what you need.
From purchase to place
Find a professional builder nearby.
A Backyard Pod should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Explore professionals serving your area and request a complimentary consultation through Between Living to help you understand the path from site preparation to finished space.
Guidance on permits & zoning
Ground leveling & site preparation
Professional installation support
A clearer path from delivery to completion
Shake N Bake
Lake Arrowhead, CA
SB Design & Build
West Hollywood, CA
Vince Murdock
Fountain Valley, CA
Marcos Rubio
Ontario, CA
Scott McClaren
Connecticut
Arvie Denopol
Dover, DE
Chee How Teo
Dover, DE
Kedir Felix
Orange City, FL
Daniel Jourdan
Atlanta, GA
Veronica Knox
Atlanta, GA
Win' Wesley
Baton Rouge, LA
Colton Lingle
Brevard, NC
Ramon Barraza
Sioux Falls, SD
Geronimo Barajas
Texas
Pavel Kolenda
Austin, TX
Denzel
Layton, UT
Vincent Cioffi
Putney, VT
Ovi Dan
Bellevue, WA
The Deck Guy
Gillette, WY
Your state isn't listed?
There’s still a way forward.
Tell us where you are planning your Pod. Between Living will help explore available installation paths and coordinate with Autonomous where additional support may be needed.
Prefer to talk first?
Speak with an Autonomous specialist through Between Living.
Start with your questions, project details, and location. We'll help route your inquiry into the appropriate Autonomous consultation pathway while keeping your request connected to Between Living.
Builder availability, service area, pricing, permitting assistance, site work, and installation scope may vary by location and project. Consultation requests are coordinated through Between Living before any direct builder engagement.
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Plan your Backyard Pod consultation
Tell us a little about your project and we'll help move your request into the right pathway.
Your selected consultation
Your request begins with Between Living. We'll review the project details and help connect your inquiry to the appropriate builder or Autonomous consultation pathway.
autonomous.ai/pod-adus
Media Attribution
Certain videos, product imagery, trademarks, and educational materials displayed throughout this page are official Autonomous assets and remain the intellectual property of their respective owner. They are presented by Between Living, an authorized Autonomous dealer, to support product education and informed purchasing decisions.