Jose Daniel Calderon Altamirano , 
Constructed from cross-laminated timber panels, this floating habitat integrates biogas systems and rainwater harvesting to provide a sustainable living solution for communities vulnerable to flooding.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from cross-laminated timber panels, enhancing structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a biogas system for energy production and waste management.
03
Features rainwater harvesting to ensure water self-sufficiency.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
05
Designed as a modular unit for easy customization and adaptability to diverse environments.
General keywords
Project specific keywords
The Water House is an innovative architectural project designed as a modular microhome, primarily targeting communities that are vulnerable to flooding and environmental changes along the rivers of the Amazon in Brazil. This project aims to address the urgent need for sustainable housing solutions in areas where conventional methods are impractical due to environmental conditions. The focus is on creating a livable environment that adapts to the unique geographical context, utilizing water resources as a key aspect of its functionality.
The primary function of the Water House is to provide a safe, energy-efficient dwelling that fosters a connection to the surrounding aquatic landscape. This architecture is designed not just as a shelter but as a community asset that encourages sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting and biogas production, to meet residents’ needs. Through its compact footprint of 25 m², the Water House also promotes efficient land use while ensuring that residents can engage with nature.
Material selection is integral to the design, opting for components that reflect sustainability and durability. The use of QuadCore AWP LEC wall panels for insulation, glued laminated timber for structural integrity, and cross-laminated reforested timber flooring highlights the careful consideration of environmental impact and resource management. These materials are sourced responsibly to reinforce the project’s commitment to sustainability.
Unique Design Approaches
One of the standout features of the Water House is its modular construction, allowing for customization based on locality and available resources. This adaptability ensures that the project can be tailored for various sites and user needs, offering flexibility that many traditional homes do not provide. Additionally, components such as insulated glass sliding doors connect indoor spaces with the outdoor environment, enhancing natural light and ventilation.
The integration of smart technology is another defining characteristic. By utilizing satellite internet services, the project ensures that inhabitants retain connectivity, an increasingly important aspect of modern living. This design choice reflects an understanding of the contemporary needs of communities, bridging the gap between rural living and urban resources.
Sustainable systems are embedded within the project, including a rainwater harvesting system and a biogas digester, which collectively enable self-sufficiency in water and energy management. Such features encourage environmentally responsible practices and contribute to the overall resilience of the structure against climatic challenges.
Architectural designs and plans for this project can reveal further insights into the spatial organization and practical applications of these unique features. The architectural sections provide detailed information on how the Water House accommodates various needs while maintaining a low environmental footprint. For those interested in exploring the full breadth of this project, examining these resources will underscore the innovative architectural ideas and solutions embedded in the Water House design.
The primary function of the Water House is to provide a safe, energy-efficient dwelling that fosters a connection to the surrounding aquatic landscape. This architecture is designed not just as a shelter but as a community asset that encourages sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting and biogas production, to meet residents’ needs. Through its compact footprint of 25 m², the Water House also promotes efficient land use while ensuring that residents can engage with nature.
Material selection is integral to the design, opting for components that reflect sustainability and durability. The use of QuadCore AWP LEC wall panels for insulation, glued laminated timber for structural integrity, and cross-laminated reforested timber flooring highlights the careful consideration of environmental impact and resource management. These materials are sourced responsibly to reinforce the project’s commitment to sustainability.
Unique Design Approaches
One of the standout features of the Water House is its modular construction, allowing for customization based on locality and available resources. This adaptability ensures that the project can be tailored for various sites and user needs, offering flexibility that many traditional homes do not provide. Additionally, components such as insulated glass sliding doors connect indoor spaces with the outdoor environment, enhancing natural light and ventilation.
The integration of smart technology is another defining characteristic. By utilizing satellite internet services, the project ensures that inhabitants retain connectivity, an increasingly important aspect of modern living. This design choice reflects an understanding of the contemporary needs of communities, bridging the gap between rural living and urban resources.
Sustainable systems are embedded within the project, including a rainwater harvesting system and a biogas digester, which collectively enable self-sufficiency in water and energy management. Such features encourage environmentally responsible practices and contribute to the overall resilience of the structure against climatic challenges.
Architectural designs and plans for this project can reveal further insights into the spatial organization and practical applications of these unique features. The architectural sections provide detailed information on how the Water House accommodates various needs while maintaining a low environmental footprint. For those interested in exploring the full breadth of this project, examining these resources will underscore the innovative architectural ideas and solutions embedded in the Water House design.
