Sustainable Marine Research Center Studies Tsunamis

While this incredible <a href="http://inhabitat.com/2010/10/11/fluid-marine-research-center-inspired-by-tsunami-waves/" target="_blank">Marine Research Center's </a> may appear quite futuristic in form, the design was actually inspired by the structure of an ensuing tsnumai wave. Designed by Maine-based <a href="http://www.solus4.com/" target="_blank">Solus4</a>, this off-shore research center was an entry for a competition co-sponsored by Arquitectum and Universitas Pelita Harapan in Indonesia. Still feeling the aftereffects of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami which devastated countless communities, the competition was initiated to address the need for <a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/2010/03/24/new-tsunami-generator-can-help-designers-create-wave-proof-buildings/" target="_blank">tsunami research</a> and the development of effective disaster relief measures. Solus4's response is fluid building that not only provides space for study and research, but generates all of its own power and clean water.

Maine-based architectural firm Solus4 designed this concept for a competition sponsored by Arquitectum and Universitas Pelita Harapan in Indonesia.

The research center is intended to provide a place for scientists to study tsunamis and develop disaster responses.

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.

The 2,500 sq meter facility has space for labs, living quarters for scientists, an auditorium, a seawater pool and an aquatic garden library.

The futuristic and fluid research center would feature sweeping views through large windows of the surrounding aquatic environment.

Underwater viewing platforms would let visitors get an upclose look at the sea life to develop a better appreciation of the Bali coast.

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.

Rainwater would be collected from the building and seawater conversion systems and be turned into potable water for domestic use.

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.

Solus4's form and structure is inspired by the tsunami wave.