Radar Dome Turns Into Beach House

BMT offers a ‘Sea-Suite’ series of houseboats, floating lodges and beach houses that feature a unique egg-shaped form. The clean lines and smooth, organic curves were originally developed as for the new landmark cruise liner terminal in Hong Kong.

Designed by BMT Asia Pacific’s managing director, Dr. Richard Colwill and Henry Ward of Henry Ward Design, Sea-Suite reuses the large construction mould fabricated for Hong Kong’s cruise liner terminal radome (radar dome) to develop its unique shell. Richard Colwill, who was project leader for the radome delivery, believed the compelling shape had the opportunity for a second life to maximize the significant investment of the huge moulds’ design, development and fabrication. 

After reviewing opportunities for the use of the mould’s two “half shells” which formed the egg, a series of options from swimming pools to temporary stages were examined. However, staying true to BMT’s maritime pedigree the first offerings are to be waterborne and coastal structures.

The floating lodge takes its form from the mould’s original shape and provides a fantastic space in which a stunning two bedroom home has been created. The luxury space is envisaged as easily at home along a lake or riverside, or as part of a cluster hotel/studio development. The high levels of roof insulation, moderation of temperature from its water setting and potential addition of solar panels to the expansive roof creates a sustainable unit for all climates.

Taking the concept a step further, the design team “cracked the egg” raising and separating the top shell, which has been sculpted to form a terracotta roof edged with flowing curves. This created an airy loft style houseboat with stepped mezzanine levels leading up to a master bedroom, featuring expansive views through full height windows. This houseboat was designed asymmetrically with a “front of house” shielding the private rear terrace, accessible from the lounge and offering open views from study, kitchen, “snug” and dining areas.

Readily transportable to almost any site accessible by sea the design flexibility intrinsic to the form provides a wide range of options for the concept ‘Sea-Suite’, from individual houseboat and lakeland lodge to resort cabin, marina office, beach house, and even art galleries and other novel commercial spaces.