View or download our company brochure to find out more about S+SA Architects and how we can assist you in the design and delivery of your scheme.
View or download our company brochure to find out more about S+SA Architects and how we can assist you in the design and delivery of your scheme.
Project: Floatopia
Client: Microhome competition
Project: Floatopia
Client: Microhome competition
In response to a competition challenging architects to design a microhome with a maximum size of 25m2, our competition group took the opportunity to contribute to a creative solution addressing economic, social, and cultural issues. The competition not only encouraged innovative thinking but also required the establishment of new architectural methods for an off-grid modular structure.
The ultimate design, named ‘Floatopia,’ envisions a future scenario in which extreme flooding is a consequence of the climate crisis. This flood-resilient microhome is situated within a connected community and draws inspiration from the lotus flower, mimicking its opening and closing in response to sunlight.
Key Features:
Flood-Resilience: The microhome is designed to withstand flooding by being built on a pontoon that rests lightly on the ground. When floodwaters surge, the buoyant design lifts the home above the rising water, ensuring the safety of its occupants.
Inspired by Nature: Taking cues from the lotus flower, the design incorporates timber louvres equipped with solar panels. These louvres open and close based on the sun’s orientation and day-night cycles, creating a dynamic response to sunlight.
Green Buffer Zone: The louvres also serve as a green buffer zone, providing space for vegetation growth. This not only enhances privacy but also contributes to insulation, creating a sustainable and eco-friendly living environment.
Connected Community: Floatopia is part of a larger connected community, fostering a sense of unity and shared resources among residents. This aspect aligns with the competition’s goal of addressing social and cultural problems through innovative architectural solutions.
Disability Action Yorkshire have a long relationship with SSA-Architects which began with the design of our residential home for younger adults with physical disabilities when they impressed us with their commitment to ensuring that the design aided full accessibility and independence. They have remained firm supporters of and amongst other events run an annual bike ride raising much needed funds to support our work. They show a genuine interest in our work and in the ongoing needs and aspirations of disabled people. We consider SSA-Architects to be true and valued friends of the charity.
Jackie Snape, Chief Executive - Disability Action Yorkshire
