The Formosa house is an amphibious house, designed by Baca Architects, that responds to floods by embracing them rather than trying to fight back. The house is capable of floating on floodwater before being gently restored to ground.
The house includes four vertical posts or 'dolphins' that guide the house upwards in a stable manner when the water level rises. The house's structure also includes a concrete base and sufficient ballast for stability. The house's facilities utilize flexible pipes that continue to operate during and after flood events.
The Formosa house is located 10 meters from the River Thames in Buckinghamsire, U in a designated flood zone. This area is considered at high risk of flooding but is also designated as a functional floodplain where water must be permitted to flow during times of flooding, making it an ideal location for this amphibious house.
Amphibious Floating Houses
The Formosa House Can Float on Floodwaters
Trend Themes
1. Amphibious Floating Houses - The trend of designing houses that can float on floodwaters provides innovative solutions for areas at high risk of flooding.
2. Embracing Floods - The trend of embracing floodwaters instead of fighting against them opens up opportunities for innovative architectural designs.
3. Flexible Floodproofing - The trend of incorporating flexible pipes and other floodproofing measures in houses allows them to remain functional during and after flood events.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The architecture industry can explore innovative designs and techniques to create amphibious floating houses.
2. Construction - The construction industry can benefit from the demand for amphibious floating houses and develop specialized construction methods.
3. Urban Planning - The urban planning industry can incorporate the concept of embracing floods into their strategies for flood-prone areas.