Floating

In the heart of Monaco’s coastline, a new vision of urban development has come to life. Dubbed the Mareterra project, this floating eco-district was officially completed this month, setting an unprecedented global benchmark.

The Arkup 50 is a futuristic floating home that can rise above the waves using motorized supports. Packed with technology, including solar panels and a Skylink internet system, pricing starts at $900,000.

Solar and wind farms are a common sight on land. But just like wind turbines, massive PV installations may soon be heading offshore. China is looking to lead the charge, and is embarking on sea trials of a wave-resistant hexagonal floating platform.

Swedish company NoviOcean has tested a third-gen prototype of its combination wind/solar/wave energy platform, a floating platform rated for up to 1 MW of consistent clean energy around the clock, thanks to a fascinating buoyancy-driven mechanism.

We haven't seen a floating offshore wind turbine like this before. Touchwind claims its innovative single-blade turbines will solve several problems to drive down cost and downtime, using a single, huge blade with no fancy active pitch controls.

Japan's N-Ark has revealed plans for an incredibly ambitious floating city that would host tourism, medical facilities, and even space rockets. Named Dogen City, the self-sufficient project would provide power, food and water for up to 40,000 people.

Vietnam's H&P Architects has produced a prototype floating dwelling that's made from bamboo. It's envisioned for river-based populations under threat from climate change, especially those living on and around the country's Mekong Delta.

Irish company Gazelle has announced the third generation of a fascinating new floating wind platform design it says can stabiliize massive offshore turbines up to 20 MW in capacity, while radically reducing weight, cost and sea floor cable tension.

Portuguese architectural firm Carlos Castanheira has recently completed this striking eco-tourism destination, with accommodation suites that float above vast grape vines below.

Seasteading proponents envisage a floating society with a fluid geography, free from oppressive government in international waters. But they'll need something to build their watery utopia on top of, and these interlocking seaweed bricks might be it.

While most people wear a PFD (personal floatation device) when boating, such is typically not the case when they're swimming in open water. A new prototype wristband is designed for such scenarios, as it features floatation airbags that can be manually deployed if needed.

With its insulating properties and possibility of being produced sustainably, cork can be a superb building material. The Float, by Studio RAP is an excellent example of this and offers a cosy and comfortable light-filled home on the water.