Floating Architecture: the alternative

Abstract

Coastal zones are generally more popular and densely populated than the hinterland of New Zealand and are exhibiting higher rates of population growth. At the same time climate change is eroding and affecting these coasts. Looking beyond the traditional confines of the city, this thesis explores how we can adapt to our changing needs and examines floating architecture as a solution to population growth, the pressures of climate change and land and resource depletion. The thesis examines examples of floating architecture in Asia, Europe and North America, then relevant concepts are explored and are integrated into the design of a floating community situated in Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour. A realistic approach is taken to the issues of building on water, but Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs is used as a guideline to address the environmental, social and other benefits of floating architecture beyond the practical. The proposed floating community utilises a grid-like system equipped with seven mobile residential units and facilities for shellfish farming, fishing and production of hydroponic crops and fresh water. The scheme can be easily varied and adapted over time depending on the needs of the residents and can be replicated in various sheltered harbours to create numerous small communities. Our planet’s resources, in particular land, water and energy are finite and a new way of living symbiotically with water needs to be explored for the well-being of our future generations. This scheme for a floating community will have a positive impact on the environment by emphasising a productive way of living rather than one that solely consumes resources.