Amphibious House

Our ‘Amphibious Houses’ are designed using prefabricated steel floatation system.  This floatation device sits in the trench under the house for two reasons.  One, the entire system can be hidden, so the house does not look too unusual from the surrounding context.  Another reason is that since the depression collects water when it rains.  As the water level rises, the depression gets filled with water and the house will be pre-buoyant in case of flood.

Schwimmhaus

The stylish Schwimmhaus, designed by German architects Confused-Direction, is ideal for those looking for a compact, environmentally friendly floating home. Built using reclaimed wood from an old farmhouse and other sustainable building materials, the green roof adds to the eco-friendly appeal. The simple-yet-sleek interior design offers all the conveniences you could want and is thoroughly modern and unique. The Schwimmhaus was designed to float around or to stay docked permanently.

Morphosis Architects Floating House

It seems floating houses are getting more attention these days, moving from the whimsical and conceptual to more practical considerations. Brad Pitt's Make It Right Foundation, which has been working to rebuild hurricane-torn New Orleans through innovative green design, has teamed up with Morphosis Architects to unveil a home that floats when flooded.

Floating House

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As of late I have turned into a NPR-a-holic! I just can’t get enough of their reports of politics and the environment. On my drive home last night I listened to a great concept that is coming out of Holland.

Architects there are designing homes that will go with the flow (sorry for the obvious) of nature. If the sea levels continue rise, so will their houses. This is a big concern with so many low lying areas in Holland. Now, let me explain. This isn’t your typical house boat you might be thinking in your head, but a house that allows it foundation rise and fall with the sea level. When the water rises or falls, the houses float to up to 18 feet above ground by sliding along two mooring poles at the front and rear of the buildings. There are a system of flexible pipes that keep the house connected to its necessary sewer and electrical lines. They say that you will feel the waves, but nothing turbulent.