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Crossboundaries

Solar + Design

Tiny Home on the Water
Johanna Link
Johanna Link
Ort
Berlin
Gebäudekategorie
Sonstiges
Bauvorhaben
Umbau
Jahr der Fertigstellung
2022
Material Fassade
Metall
Solar + Design = Tiny Home on the Water

In a world facing travel restrictions, climate change, conflicts and the energy crisis, demands for a self-sufficient and mobile refuge have surged.
The owner of this several-year-old motorboat saw potential to have it transformed into a fully solar-powered, high-end tiny home on the water. Named "Fàng Sōng 放松", meaning "relax" in Chinese, the boat has become a personal retreat for the owner and a cozy getaway for friends and family.

The project aimed to challenge traditional notions of home and explore the concept of transient architecture. The compact boat - measuring around 15m in length and 4m in width - features interlinked areas transforming for different scenarios and creating a flexible living space with multiple functionalities.
The design process involved collaboration between the client and Crossboundaries, combining her preferences for imperial Chinese colors and subtle design elements with clever tiny-home functions. Transformable features, such as a disappearing bed, a hidden bed to close the control stand, and a folding desk, were incorporated. The design maximized outdoor views, fresh air and privacy.


Craftsmanship and environmental considerations have been essential for the project. The team was facing challenges working on the boat, with a design team in Beijing and a construction site in Berlin. Despite pandemic restrictions, meticulous work and effective communication ensured successful project completion.
The boat integrates innovative solutions for solar energy, heating, water and waste management. Solar panels are covering the entire roof and sides, making it fully self-reliant on sunny days. Battery storage provides energy for the engines and appliances. A pellet stove meets the heating demand, using renewable wood pellets. Future plans include adding a water purification system and a biological sewage treatment unit for further ecological improvements.
By combining advanced technology, sustainability, and efficient design, this "tiny home on the water" offers a holistic living experience. The boat serves both as a personal home and, incorporating urban resources, a unit of the city. The vision is to embrace denser living spaces, reduce material possessions and achieve more flexible ways of life.