Floating Dwelling
Lymington, New Forest
This floating house near Lymington is a bold example of innovative coastal architecture in the New Forest. Designed by DUA Architecture, the dwelling is situated within a flood risk area, and its design cleverly solves this challenge by floating on a pontoon. Regardless of water levels, the home rises and falls with the tide, ensuring it remains completely safe from flooding.
Ordinarily resting on what appears to be a low-lying, elegant plinth, the pontoon design requires no mass concrete foundation, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Given its prominent, exposed coastal location, the dwelling adopts a circular form, achieving visual purity while remaining practical and resilient.
This project illustrates how contemporary waterfront design in the New Forest can combine sustainability, engineering innovation, and sculptural elegance, offering a modern coastal living experience with minimal environmental impact.