guest harbor by visiondivison imagines boats as side houses in sweden

guest harbor by visiondivison imagines boats as side houses in sweden
all images courtesy of visiondivision

architecture office visiondivion has developed the project ‘guest harbor’ in response to a new building code in sweden, which allows for the construction of a 25 sqm (270 sqf) additional dwelling unit on residential properties without need of a building permit. the proposal envisions an alternative approach to a typical side house (called attefallshus in sweden), by placing under-used boats in suburban yards for domestic function. prepared for inclusion in a forthcoming book titled ’25 m2′, the project visualizes various potential scenarios for the idea, by suggesting the addition of a pool, pond, or even high-strength fountain to the residential yard.

the boat becomes an identifying element for the residential property

‘guest harbor’ offers a cheaper and more fun alternative to a standard swedish attefallshus, which accounts for the country’s boating culture and high level of under-used vessels. these ships are often stored on stilts in the side-yard, which visiondivision states is uglier and more unsafe than having it in the natural setting.

the addition of a pool to the side yard allows for the storage of a boat in its natural setting

given that the undertaking involves the addition of a pond or pool to the residential garden, the designers clarify that this body of water can be used for swimming and other recreation while the boat is out to sea.

as another advantage, the proposal states a pond or pool can be constructed by the property owner, as opposed to relying on craftsmen to build an additional structure.

contrary to an additional building, a pond smoothly integrates with the landscape

for those seeking increased spectacle value from the undertaking, visiondivision suggests the addition of a fountain that would elevate the boat above ground. the effort provides an impression of wealth and wealth to the neighborhood and passers-by. the designers continue:

‘the boat can not only be seen in your entire neighborhood, it will also splash water on your neighbors and if it is well polished, it will also dazzle the jealous by passing crowd and throw reflections from the sun over the entire block. you might think we’re kidding, but it’s just stuff like this visiondivison can help our clients with, and we promise you a lot of attention to both your boat and your aspirations in life.’

boat masts extend above the residences’ low roofs

a fountain-elevated boat becomes the spectacle of the street

keeping up with the neighbors

ponds are appropriate for larger properties