GreenFloat

The design concept reimagines a barge, once used for transporting cargos, as a sustainable living solution. As global warming gets more intensive, rising sea levels and extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and flooding threaten communities near rivers and coastlines. This project envisions transforming barges into mobile living units that can be deployed to flood-affected areas, providing housing solutions for people who have lost their homes.

Inspired by the container crane system, prefabricated housing units are lifted and placed onto the barge by the crane, which enable quick and efficient relocation to flood-prone areas. The steel frame serves as the main structure, dividing the 200-foot vessel into various sections of housing units. Below that, a water filtration system is integrated into the design, ensuring a reliable supply of clean water for “the barge community.”

Each living unit is designed as a compact, self-sufficient studio, complete with a restroom, kitchen, and operable windows to ensure adequate airflow. The barge also features a vertical garden, providing space for growing vegetables to support the local community. To enhance sustainability, the secondary structure serves as the external skin of the barge, with shading louvers and solar panels. This design offers a resilient and sustainable living solution for those affected by climate change while minimizing environmental impact.