The tidal house fills with water and generates power as it glides silently
up and down the artificial beach, creating energy on the tides and alternating
with its symbiotic twin. Together they share power, being self-sufficient
and safe from rising (and falling) sea levels as the climate changes. I
have designed a house that is powered by the sea, moving gracefully with
the tides to demonstrate power generation within an architectural framework.
Self-sufficiency
As the house generates power on the ebb tide, it can power its twin as it
recharges. It also has a water battery, rain water collection, desalination
and sewage treatment facilities, making it entirely self sufficient. A photovoltaic
grid pays back the energy used during construction. By forming the inland
lagoon, connected by an undersea tunnel, security and privacy are incorporated
into the scheme, and the tidal house looks out majestically over the Bay.
Accommodation
Accommodation is divided by storey with self-contained guest accommodation
at lower deck level. Living and entertaining is at entry level and the master
bedroom suite is on the top level with a private sun-terrace. All the principal
rooms enjoy uninterrupted views via large curved screens. A glass staircase
atrium adds opportunities for informal sitting and solar gains. The house
will be built largely from fibreglass, timber and glass, with the thick
insulated walls containing sea water tubes for summer cooling.
