The Tsunami House is located on Camano Island, Washington.
Comments from Designs Northwest Architects:
“The residence occupies an area of 292 sq.. In an area with elevated (V) inundation velocity at the north end of the island.
The main living space of 82 sq.., had to be placed on the 1.5 m. Above from standard grading. Its foundation must rest on piles capable of withstanding the high speed of tsunami waves. Below Area of 70 sqm.. must necessarily incorporate walls that could collapse in the event of a storm.
For drainage on an area of only 15m², the garden has been paved with water and is therefore perfect for gardening., It was necessary to cover the ground with just over 3 m of sand. To integrate the sand filter in the limited area, it was encased in one-meter-high, architectural concrete walls covered with permeable, sunny decking. This composition also acts as a visual barrier between the road and the dwelling, providing privacy when all the overhead openings are open.
For this reason, our design strategy was to place the most important objects at a height of 2.7 meters and use the lower level as a flexible, versatile space, dubbed the “Flood Room”. Large glass doors open from the north to the shore platform, while frosted hanging panels open to the south-facing courtyard.
A metal staircase leads to the main living area, presented as a large room with a living room, kitchen, dining room, and 18 sq.. the third level, an attic bedroom with a scenic view of the sea. It is adjoined by a huge apartment that has sliding translucent doors that allow light to flow freely inside the building.
The materials used to clad the building are strong and low maintenance. The reinforced concrete columns are left exposed and the exterior siding is a combination of galvanized fascia panels and aluminum profile windows. Polished concrete covers the floor, and the ceiling finish is western red cedar, lending warmth to the industrial characteristics of the lower level.
The upper level looks more refined with porcelain tile flooring, cedar wood, sculptural “waves” of stucco and milled, steel trim around a working fireplace. References to the natural world are made throughout the interior”
Can you provide more information on how this pile house is able to withstand tsunamis and storms?
Can you please explain how this pile house is designed to withstand tsunamis and storms?
This pile house is designed to withstand tsunamis and storms by utilizing specific engineering techniques. Firstly, the structure is elevated on top of strong, sturdy piles that are deeply embedded into the ground. This allows the house to be situated above the potential flood and wave levels during a tsunami event. The piles are typically made of materials like concrete or steel, providing additional strength and stability.
Furthermore, the materials used in the construction of the house are carefully chosen to withstand high winds and impact from debris during storms. Reinforced concrete, steel, and other resilient materials are commonly used in the walls, roof, and foundation. The design incorporates strong connections between different structural elements to enhance overall stability.
Additionally, windows and doors are fortified to resist strong winds and impact forces. The house may also feature breakaway walls that can collapse under extreme pressure, thereby reducing the risk of structural failure and preventing the accumulation of destructive forces during a storm or tsunami.
In conclusion, the pile house is specifically designed to minimize the impact of tsunamis and storms by elevating the structure, using strong and resilient construction materials, reinforcing connections, and incorporating safety features like breakaway walls. These design features collectively enhance the house’s ability to withstand and survive these natural disasters.