Floating houses a solution for the future.
The eco-friendly floating habitat WaterNest 100, designed by Giancarlo Zema for EcoFloLife is an enveloping of 100 sqm residential unit.
Sea levels are predicted to rise. There are different types of floating homes, permanently floating homes and homes that float only when flood waters swell, but sit on the ground during the dry season. Requiring the later on new construction within floodplains, and considering same for threatened shorelines, is one way to plan for the future. Although floating homes near the coast need protected waters, wave attenuation through wave walls and dykes as often used in Europe are a future possibility. Inaction is costly.
The WaterNest 100 is a solution: 12 m in diameter and 4 m high, made entirely of recycled laminated timber and a recycled aluminium hull. Balconies are conveniently located on the sides and thanks to the large windows, permit enjoyment of fascinating views over the water.
Bathroom and kitchen skylights are located on the wooden roof, as well as 60sqm of amorphous photovoltaic panels which are used for the internal needs of the residential unit.
The interior of WaterNest 100 can include a living room, dining area, bedroom, kitchen and bathroom or have other configurations according to the different housing or working needs. It is perfect like an ecological house, office, lounge bar, restaurant, shop or exhibition floating space. The selected furnishings in the EcoFloLife catalogue are top design, eco-friendly and elegant, and thus meet the most demanding contemporary needs. WaterNest 100 can be positioned along river courses, lakes, bays, atolls and sea areas with calm waters. The use of materials and sustainable production systems make this unit recyclable up to as much as 98%. In addition, thanks to a sophisticated system of internal natural micro-ventilation and air conditioning, it is classified as a low-consumption residential habitat. WaterNest 100 is the ideal solution for those wishing to live independently, exclusively and in complete harmony with nature. WaterNest 100 has several possible configurations, depending on the different housing or working needs.
Photos & Text by Giancarlo Zema Design Group