DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2014.103
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/1258
Date of Award
6-2014
Degree Name
MS in Architecture
Department/Program
Architecture
Advisor
Thomas Fowler
Abstract
Over the past century, sea level has risen nearly eight inches along the California coast and climate scientists suggest substantial increases in sea level as a significant impact of climate change over the coming century. This project explores the concept of creating a sustainable living environment for seaside residents in Redwood City as an alternative to permanent construction on land in the event of a substantial rise in sea level.
This project will generate a flood-resilient design solution that is capable of rising and falling with the water. In order to ensure the well-being of the inhabitants, I will analyze a number of case studies, notably the Netherland’s water dwellings, New Orleans’s amphibious residences and Sausalito’s floating communities, for the purpose of identifying key themes that will facilitate the construction of a single-family amphibious residence in Redwood City.
This project is a response to environmental design challenges raised by ongoing atmospheric events such as the gradual rise in sea level and disastrous events such as Hurricane Katrina in 2005 where extreme flooding due to failed coastal defenses exhibited catastrophic effects on coastal residences, its inhabitants, and the surrounding ecosystem.