The Black Gold is not the name of a song, in this case, but a revamped oil tanker. Turned into a floating village, this concept introduces yet another reason why designers should be looking at existing infrastructures when creating livable spaces in cities (or just outside of cities).
Conceived by Dutch designer Chris Collaris with the help of Ruben Esser, Sander Bakker and Patrick van der Gronde, The Black Gold is envisioned to hold events, a museum, shops and even housing as well as a park-like area on the top deck. Collaris says, "Wealth, power and cultural enlightenment has come to this region because of its oil history. But that oil history—or current status—can only be seen on big seas and big harbors. Why not really embed it visible in your built culture and society? It's so powerful and breathtaking to have this mega structure at a long beach working as a real functional building."
Oil Tanker Villages
Chris Collaris' The Black Gold is a Concept for Shops, Housing and More
Trend Themes
1. Adaptive Reuse of Infrastructure - Designers should explore the potential of existing infrastructure in creating livable spaces.
2. Repurposing Ships Into Floating Structures - Ships can be turned into functional floating structures like villages, housing, and commercial spaces.
3. Oil History-inspired Architecture - Buildings inspired by oil history can serve as functional and cultural landmarks.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Urban Design - Adaptive reuse of infrastructure opens up opportunities for innovative urban design.
2. Maritime and Shipping - Repurposing ships into floating structures creates opportunities for new maritime industries.
3. Tourism and Hospitality - Oil history-inspired architecture can attract tourists and create unique hospitality experiences.