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Going Above and Below

Posted on March 25, 2020 and filed under Immerst, Sustainability

When considering a design in the floating architecture space we have the enviable position of working from a place of possibility. Not limited by terra firma, structures can go up, down and then out in a way that is not possible in traditional construction. A design that illustrates this paradigm so well was unveiled recently at a symposium titled “Urban Tactics for Flooding: From Risks to Opportunities” presented by Griffiths University’s Cities Research Institute. Sea Manta, described by the GriffithNews as a “proposed 60m long recreational and ecological structure” is an ingenious design. An aquarium, swimming pool […]

Sustainability is a Rock Solid Idea

Posted on February 8, 2020 and filed under Construction, Immerst

Whether in Davos or Düsseldorf, the landscape of every industry is being transformed by a quest for sustainability. Recognizing the need to come to terms with climate change, Larry Fink, CEO of Black Rock, a global investment management corporation, took a definitive stance earlier this month in his annual letter to CEOs when he declared, “sustainable investing is the strongest foundation for client portfolios going forward.” Fink’s announcement helped put the issue front and center at last week’s World Economic Forum with CNN Business reporting that, “sustainability was the topic of scores of panels, meetings and cocktail conversations in Davos.” And while key speakers […]

OASys: Floating Foundation

Posted on December 29, 2019 and filed under Construction, Design, Immerst, Marine Engineering

In this issue we’re going to do a deep dive into the foundation of an Immerst OASys. Like the foundation of any architectural structure, there are many things to consider when drafting and implementing the design. Paul and Bob will walk us through their process and since we’re dealing with a structure that floats on water, the physics of buoyancy, known as Archimedes Principle is where we’ll begin. How do you determine the amount of buoyancy needed to float an OASys? It starts with some math! That’s exactly right, it does start with some math. Once we’ve developed a working concept for […]

A Conversation With James Betts Enterprises

Posted on November 21, 2019 and filed under Construction, Design, Racing, Spirit of Tradition

Our firm is currently collaborating with the innovative James Betts Enterprises, Inc. on the beautiful Spirit-of-Tradition yacht, Cirrus. We introduced you to JBE last month and since then, we’ve talked with them further about the process they go through when taking a boat from dream to reality. Tell us what happens when a designer brings a client to you? We approach every new potential project with a critical eye and an open mind. This allows us to understand the client’s dream, see the designer’s vision, and determine the logistics and feasibility of turning an idea into a tangible product. […]

The Sustainability of a Floating Design

Posted on November 5, 2019 and filed under Construction, Design, Immerst

We believe that buildings like an Immerst OASys are leading the way in sustainable architecture. Sustainable architecture is a phrase that is often used in tandem with green building and with good reason. The aim of green building is to build in such a way as to minimize the impact of a project on the natural world through efficient use of materials and resources while enhancing the occupants’ experience of interacting with the building. The World Green Building Council lists features of a green building as: Efficient use of energy, water and other resources Use of renewable energy, such […]

Betts Boats, an Introduction

Posted on October 13, 2019 and filed under Construction, Design, Racing, Spirit of Tradition

Just over 2 hours north of Seattle sits the small town of Anacortes, Washington, known as the “Gateway to the San Juan Islands.” It is home to James Betts Enterprises, Inc., a family owned and operated boat building company specializing in custom racing and cruising yachts. With 40+ years in the business, JBE custom yachts have been raced in prestigious events around the globe including the America’s Cup, Admiral’s Cup, and Around Alone. Even more impressive is their commitment to making a custom yacht a viable option to a wider audience. Utilizing their “Integrated Project Delivery” system, Betts has streamlined […]

An Interview with SEASE, an Italian Activewear Brand

Posted on October 13, 2019 and filed under Fashion, Racing, Spirit of Tradition

Often we will come across something, at an event, through a conversation or in print, that piques our interest to the extent that it requires further investigation. When we heard that there was an Italian activewear line that creates foul weather gear that is as stylish and functional off the water as on, we were intrigued. We soon learned that SEASE, the name a combination of ‘sea’ and ‘ease’, is a brand that caters to the active lifestyle. Their premier lines are sailing, skiing and urban sportswear. SEASE co-owners and brothers, Franco Loro Piana and Giacomo Loro Piana graciously agreed […]

OASys Defined

Posted on October 9, 2019 and filed under Design, Immerst, Marine Engineering

This month we’d like to set the record straight: our floating structure product, OASys (Ocean Architecture System) is not a houseboat. We understand the confusion. After all, we are marine architects who specialize in designing spirit-of-tradition yachts. We launched Immerst to move into the residential architecture business using what we know about marine technology. So while an OASys does float and it functions as a living space, it is not a houseboat. A general consensus on what constitutes a floating home was outlined by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors: Constructed on a float; Designed and built to be […]