WATER-LINE is a project that addresses the pressing issues of climate change and housing availability in urban areas. Located on Park Avenue in Manhattan, it features a 2.6-mile-long swimming pool elevated above street level. This facility functions as a space for leisure and recreation while also serving as a reminder of rising sea levels. The design aims to promote awareness of environmental challenges and offers a unique approach to integrating housing within its framework.

Innovative Use of Space

The concept emphasizes the creative use of urban space, blending leisure and living areas. The elevated swimming pool provides an opportunity for both relaxation and recreational activities. Below it, the design includes capsule units that aim to fulfill the need for affordable housing. This arrangement efficiently utilizes urban land in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Capsule Units

Approximately 3,600 capsule units are part of the design, offering compact living spaces for residents. The units are intended to address the shortage of affordable housing in Manhattan. By placing residential units under a public facility, the design encourages community interaction and provides essential housing in a dense urban environment. The solution reflects a practical approach to the challenges of city living.

Environmental Considerations

Though specific materials used in the construction are not detailed, the design inherently suggests a focus on resilience against climate impacts. The above-ground swimming pool is a direct response to the potential for flooding in the area. The project highlights the importance of considering environmental factors when designing urban living spaces.

Aesthetics and Urban Integration

The combination of the swimming pool and housing units changes the landscape along Park Avenue. It creates a lively environment that encourages people to spend time outdoors and engage with their surroundings. The design illustrates how public amenities can work alongside residential needs, ultimately enriching everyday life in the city. The WATER-LINE is a response to both immediate needs and the longer-term challenges posed by a changing climate.