Floating Homes: A Solution to Rising Waters in the Netherlands

The Netherlands faces challenges with building space due to its low sea level and rising waters. A solution is floating homes, which gained attention after the 1995 flood. Anne van der Mollen, affected by the flood, now owns a floating home. Dura Famir has constructed 37 such homes, built on land and placed on reinforced pontoons. These homes are unsinkable, with costs ranging from €250,000 to €300,000. Developers plan to expand this concept further.

What geographical challenge does the Netherlands face that affects building space?

• Much of the country is below sea level

• Frequent earthquakes

• High population density

• Large desert areas

What event in 1995 led to the evacuation of many people in the South of Holland?

• A severe drought

• A major flood

• A volcanic eruption

• A tornado

Who is Anne van der Mollen in the context of the floating homes?

• An architect designing floating homes

• A government official promoting floating homes

• A resident who moved to a floating home after a flood

• A developer of floating homes

What is the primary material used in the pontoons of floating homes?

• Aluminum

• Polystyrene reinforced with steel

• Concrete

• Wood

What is the approximate cost range of a floating home developed by Dura Famir?

• €100,000 to €150,000

• €300,000 to €350,000

• €200,000 to €250,000

• €250,000 to €300,000