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Sustainable Marine Research Center Studies Tsunamis
Posted By
Bridgette Meinhold
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In
Architecture,Environment |
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The concept for the 2,500 sq m offshore marine center is a colossal white structure located about 150 meters off the of shoreline of Kuta Beach in Bali. Large windows provide views of the surrounding ocean environment, while underwater viewing rooms offer visitors views of the aquatic life. The marine center provides space for research labs, living quarters for the scientists, a seawater pool, an aquatic garden library and an auditorium. Scientists working and living aboard the research center will be studying the tsunamis and disaster response.
The design of the research center was inspired by the form a tsunami wave takes as it proliferates across the water. Apart from taking a cue from nature, the center will also be energy efficient and capable of producing its own power and clean water. Tidal generators will be used along with photovoltaics to generate electricity, while solar passive and energy efficient design will minimize energy usage. Rainwater will be collected and seawater conversion systems will provide potable water for the facility. Sea-sourced water will be used to provide radiant cooling to the skin of the building.
+ Solus4
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While this incredible Marine Research Center’s may appear quite futuristic in form, the design was actually inspired by the structure of an ensuing tsnumai wave. Designed by Maine-based Solus4, this off-shore research center was an entry for a by and
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Maine-based architectural firm Solus4 designed this concept for a competition sponsored by Arquitectum and Universitas Pelita Harapan in Indonesia.
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The research center is intended to provide a place for scientists to study tsunamis and develop disaster responses.
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The center would be located about 100 meters off the coast of Kuta beach in Bali and would serve as a visitor center and a tourist attraction.
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The 2,500 sq meter facility has space for labs, living quarters for scientists, an auditorium, a seawater pool and an aquatic garden library.
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The futuristic and fluid research center would feature sweeping views through large windows of the surrounding aquatic environment.
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Underwater viewing platforms would let visitors get an upclose look at the sea life to develop a better appreciation of the Bali coast.
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The facility would be completely net zero and produce its own power from tidal generators, located in the water nearby, and from photovoltaics embedded in the building and glass.
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Rainwater would be collected from the building and seawater conversion systems and be turned into potable water for domestic use.
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Climate control and cooling for the facility would be provided by an underwater heat pump able to bring up cool ocean water to cool the skin of the building.
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Solus4’s form and structure is inspired by the tsunami wave.
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