EMERSON STEPP MArch

Seastead - Open-Ocean Living Space

Problem:  This was a competition implemented by The Seasteading Institute(TSI) to inspire with visions of how seasteaders can make a home on the next frontier, the ocean.   Marine Innovation & Technology designed a structure for TSI that consisted of four vertical columns connected by large trusses in a # shape, supporting a platform with tension cables.  Designs were required to build off this base structure.

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Solution:  I chose a practical, recreational program for my design as we were told that our designs were to be used for marketing.  I designed the project to have a low center of gravity along with thick robust walls to accommodate the harsh maritime conditions.  The form is inspired by the natural wave forms of the ocean accompanied by a gradient of circular windows that grow larger as they rise.  Around the perimeter of the platform there is walking/running/biking track that connects various open courtyards with different themes ranging from sports to open vegetation.  As this was a visual competition with a short time-frame the development stopped at the exterior.  

Primary Programs: AutoCAD, Sketchup, Photoshop. 3D Studio Max, V-ray