Icebergs / Daniel Andersson

Courtesy of Daniel Andersson

Daniel Andersson shared with us his project Icebergs.  An iceberg only shows the tip above the water surface, the rest stays hidden below. These floating summer cottages in sheltered bays an lakes around Åland Islands, Finland investigates this concept. See more images and architect’s description after the break.

Courtesy of Daniel Andersson

Cabin villages are a normal sight aroun the Åland Islands. The client Ålands Hotell & Restaurangskola asked for a refine concept to attract more tourists during summer months.
The functions are arranged in a spiral form elevating from the lowest point, the living room and up through the entrance to the roof which serves as a sun deck. The shape of the cottage acts a ship hull pushing away water to stay floating. Secondary pontoons are placed underneath the body and also works as stabilizers.

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The floor plan is 60m2 with clear definition between private and public. All functions are arranged around the central atrium that also contains the staircase. The atrium provides the light and underwater windows provide views. A sauna is located in the bathroom and is given easy access to run out, up the stairs to jump into the water.
The cottages are anchored to the seabed in clam areas due to its vulnerability for high waves. Water and electricity is connected through underwater cables and pipes to a central station on the mainland. Precautionary bilge pumps are installed under the staircase to remove all water that would leak over.