The Architect of Aquatecture

Koen Olthuis is an architect of floating structures, from floating condominiums in the Netherlands to a floating mosque in the United Arab Emirates. Inhabitat dates to ask, why? What is the relevance of aquatecture?

1 minute read

May 12, 2011, 8:00 AM PDT

By Tim Halbur

Olthuis replies:

"...what attracts me the most about floating architecture is the enormous flexibility water offers us, and the virtually unexplored limitless possibilities water brings to metropolises worldwide. Planning for urban change using water will help us cope with the yet unforeseen effects of climate change and urbanization."

Olthuis says that building on water also has many environmental advantages, such as natural cooling.

Lots of fascinating images over at Inhabitat.

FULL STORY: INHABITAT INTERVIEW: Water Architect Koen Olthuis on Floating Buildings & Hydro-Cities

Wednesday, May 11, 2011 in Inhabitat

Architecture World Floating Houses Aquatecture

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.