Architecture firm Waterstudio and Dutch Docklands joined forces to develop a floating city in the Maldives.The project responds efficiently to the threat of rising seas on the islands; these leading Dutch companies know how to deal with that...Text: Fleur de Jong
Image: Waterstudio | Dutch Docklands MaldivesThe Maldives Floating City project, created in collaboration with the local government, is located in a lagoon just minutes from Malé, capital of the Maldives. The unique city consists of as many as 5,000 floating units containing homes, restaurants, businesses and schools. Channels run between the units in a pattern inspired by brain coral. The city is expected to be inhabitable beginning in 2024 and will be completed in 2027.
The Maldives, an archipelago of 1,190 low-lying islands, is one of the world's most vulnerable countries to climate change. Eighty percent of the land area is less than one meter above sea level. The architects of Waterstudio and the developers of Dutch Docklands offer a revolutionary approach to modern and sustainable living in the beautiful azure backdrop of the Maldives with this, the first of its kind island city. The smart infrastructure and dynamic composition respond to weather and climate change as the city moves with the tide.
The potential environmental impact of the project was thoroughly assessed by local coral experts and approved by the government before construction began. To support marine life, artificial coral banks were created that help coral grow naturally. The colorful houses with wide balconies on the island should provide a home for 20,000 people. Electricity on the island will be generated by solar power, and cold water from the deep sea will be pumped into the lagoon as an alternative to air conditioning. Also read: 'DMD Amsterdam: ancient estates, modern hospitality'
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