House on V-Stilts

The task was to design an elevated sanctuary that harmoniously blended luxurious living and robust resilience, amplified the home's connection to the waterfront, and fulfilled the homeowner’s desire for a penthouse-esque experience.

With the building site sitting 0.7 meters below sea level and projections indicating a further 3-meter descent by 2041, a strategic approach was crucial to ensuring the residence's longevity and stability.

The pile-slab foundation was utilized to resist the structure’s load, securing the structural integrity of the residence amid ground shifting. Furthermore, a 4.5-meter-high dike was constructed along the rear of the property facing the canal, safeguarding the home against potential coastal flooding for decades.

Plumbing and electrical systems were strategically installed underground and attached to the foundation, minimizing potential damage from future land subsidence.

Moving above the ground, living areas were cleverly elevated on sleek, black V-shaped stilts to maximize the views and create a flood-proof space. This ingenious design preserves clean aesthetics by minimizing the number of columns, ensuring panoramic ocean vistas.

The layout was tailored to the homeowner’s lifestyle. The raised ground floor, now at a safe height of 3.3 meters above the original terrain, accommodates parking and service areas. One level up reveals a communal area with a refreshing pool, ideal for socializing and relaxation. The third level houses a private sanctuary, offering serene bedrooms with captivating sea views. Crowning the residence is a multipurpose space with a spacious balcony overlooking the canal.

Sustainability shapes the design, with each floor positioned to optimize natural light and minimize reliance on artificial cooling. The second-floor workspace, for example, is placed under a cantilevered volume that blocks harsh east-west sunlight. Similarly, the living room's orientation towards the neighboring park shields it from the intense afternoon heat.

Materials were deliberately chosen for their durability, minimizing maintenance needs. A rainwater harvesting system collects and distributes rainwater for landscape irrigation, further showcasing the commitment to eco-friendly design.