b) Contemporary architecture dealing with the phenomenon Rotterdam’s solar-powered floating pavilion - A climate-proof development Constructed in 2015, in an effort to address the challenges of climate change and sea level rise, the City of Rotterdam has started to build some intriguing floating structures. The first pilot project is a catalyst for climate change-proof architecture called the Floating Pavilion that consists of three connected hemispheres that look like bubbles anchored within the Dutch city’s old harbour. An initiative of Rotterdam Climate Proof (part of the Rotterdam Climate Initiative, the mixed-use pavilion was designed by Deltasync and PublicDomain Architects, and it sets an unprecedented example for innovative, self- sustainable and climate change resilient architecture and flexibility. The Floating Pavilion is a unique floating venue in the center of Rotterdam. It can be rented partly or entirely for conferences, exhibitions, presentations, receptions and dinners. The arkup floating house, miami – by water studio The Arkup, a green-energy luxury floating home that can adapt to sea rise, docks off Palm Island near Miami Beach in April, The Arkup is aft m)-long two-story ultra- luxury houseboat comprising 4,350 sq. ft (404 sq. m) of floorspace. It was designed by Dutch architecture firm Waterstudio.NL. The floating house has solar panels, impact resistant windows and can withstand hurricane winds of up to 155 miles per hour. The most interesting feature compared to other floating homes we've seen is its hydraulic stilts. These can be deployed to a depth of 20 ft (6 m) to stabilize the dwelling or lift it above the waterline to avoid waves and reduce hull maintenance. The home is propelled by a pair of 100 kW (134 hp) electric azimuth thrusters, allowing it to reach 7 knots. Three more to be constructed by 2020.
