Floating Homes: Prefab On The Water

Check out this modern floating home in Hamburg�s City Sport Hafen, spanning a total space of 225 sq meters on two floors with beautiful views of the marina. It�s a B-type model, based on a prefabricated modular design, that allows for maximum flexibility and lifestyle adaptation.
This contemporary prefab home features a floating base of reinforced concrete pontoon system; the basic frame of the structure is a steel construction with planking on both sides; wall and ceiling constructions are vapour-permeable; the outer shell is made of glass-fibre reinforced plastic and aluminum sheeting with a seawater-resistant coating. The facade consists of large glass openings with integrated sun slats for glazing.



Below are two other models, featuring one floor and a total space of 115-160 sq. meters.


* More info at Floating Homes

House on Hoopers Island: Cabins Collective

This large holiday home is comprised of several individual cabins, which are conceptually linked by their exterior metal cladding and sloped roofs. Following Hurricane Isabel, all new residences must be built three feet above the base flood elevation; inspired by the island local vernacular barns and fishing shacks, this unique coastal home was elevated by concrete plinths.
A screened porch connects the three main buildings, providing a breezy space to relax and unwind. Extending from the main lodge towards the river, a wooden deck creates a platform for sunbathing alongside an above-ground outdoor swimming pool.


Depending on weather and number of invited guests, each of the cabins can be locked down and inhabited as needed.


* More info at David Jameson Architect

Beach House at Cerro Tacna: Beach Platform

A beach house is the perfect place to unwind, where one could both relax and gather with family and friends. It�s here where exteriors become the right place to be � and this is exactly the concept behind this modern coastal home.
This small house is located at a well known Chilean beach resort, south of Maitencillo. It�s situated on a somewhat difficult plot, featuring a narrow frontal dimension of 15 x 35 meters, with close neighboring houses.
Built from impregnated pine wood, this 122 sq. meters home is basically an elevated platform, approx 4 meters above ground level � as if an extension of the beach.
Three separate volumes are scattered across the platform: One holds the kitchen/living room area with glass sliding windows opening up to the terrace, another holds the sleeping areas, and a third one underneath, is for guests. And this is where the concept takes place � outdoors � where exterior spaces connect the three units.

The platform�s height and plan rotation, provides the best view towards the ocean. For privacy, the living unit acts as a backbone against curious neighbors. On the other side, a wide bench provides both the long wanted privacy and it becomes a good place to get some sun tan.
The structure is supported by the visitor�s bedrooms unit and a V shaped pillar line, leaving as much air below the platform, as possible. The whole project, from planning until finished, took 10 months.


* More info at DRN Arquitectos

SmartPlayhouse: architecturally inspired playhouses

As a kid I loved playing house. Using cardboard boxes, sheets and broomsticks, I would build my own private little house and play in it for hours. Unfortunately these play houses of mine weren�t destined to last for long because at some point my mother would need her broom back or I simply had to take everything down in order to go to bed. I only have great memories of these play houses I built but I have to admit that design and style were not their strong point.
SmartPlayhouse are a line of modern playhouses that are spacious and fun for kids and at the same time are safe and stylish for the parents.
There are four types of playhouses, each with a distinct look inspired by a modern architectural concept and they can be personalized and accessorized to fit in nicely on any property. These playhouses are built with safety and durability in mind, they are made of high-quality weatherproof material so they require minimum maintenance and are great for the outdoors.
All the details, from fittings to openings have been carefully child-proofed and follow the strict guidelines of the European Safety standard requirement. And to fit your personal style and taste, you can choose from a wide range of colors, floors, lighting and accessories.
Each of the four styles of playhouses is unique:
The Illinois model � inspired by the Modern Movement of the mid-20th century, this playhouse is characterized by its� clean, simple lines and eight windows. Sitting inside, kids get to see the expanse of the view outside without any barriers.

The Casaforum model � inspired by organic shapes this playhouse is �coated� in metal leaves that shine like a sculpture and at the same time blend in with the garden surrounding it. The atmosphere inside this house is bright, comfortable and cozy.



The Hobikken model � a rustic playhouse made mainly of wood for a warm, cozy feeling.


The Kyoto model � inspired by avant-garde Japanese architecture the windows of this playhouse vary in shape and size giving it an original, futuristic look.



Seeing these playhouses makes me want to go back in time, they look so wonderful I�m sure I would have enjoyed endless hours of fun in them.
The playhouses are suitable for indoors and outdoors, some styles come in several sizes and lighting and pavements can be added. The price range starts from:
Illinois � 8500 �
Casaforum � 4400 �
Hobbiken � 2200 � � 4400 �
Kyoto � 2400 � � 7200 �
* More info at smartplayhouse