Eike Otto designed something sustainable and wonderful for client Iba-See. The proposed project is a floating habitat, consisting of many individual residential units. Groups of floating lilies seem to have impressed the designer to create a habitat entirely on water with minimum construction space. The units are like floating particles, which form a cluster together. Thus, the residents can opt for joining the units or living individually.
The unit has been designed in such a way that heating and cooling could be naturally controlled. The upper deck is an energy free surface that provides protection from the sun during scorching summers. The rail mounted curtains too make sure you get some relief from the summer heat with complete privacy. Natural lighting is maximum due to all round visibility. For winters, a fireplace with heat recovery will provide an excellent cozy atmosphere. Internally, the unit has foldable tables and furniture to create additional space whenever required.
When it comes to the electricity demand, solar panels are the first to be considered and that’s what the designers exactly did. The unit stores the electricity generated from sun in lead acid batteries and an inverter passes 230V of power for home appliances like refrigerator and TV. The charge can be controlled through an additional controller.
The units are not stationary and include two electric pod drives and if required, the units can be moved from one location to another. The movement of the unit can be controlled through a remote control with a trackball or joystick. We hope to see it on real waters, if Iba-See could materialize it
Via : Eike Otto
