In summer 2012, when the Olympic Games come to London, lucky travelers will experience the bustle of the city from a boat-like temporary hotel perched atop the Queen Elizabeth Hall at the Southbank Centre. The winning design for the ‘A Room for London’ competition, by David Kohn Architects and artist Fiona Banner, almost seems to have been grounded in this unlikely location as if from an apocalyptically high tide.
Beating out the cloud-shaped entry by Design Initiatives and nearly 500 other submissions from around the world, the David Kohn design is a boat-shaped timber structure with upper and lower ‘decks’ from which visitors can enjoy unparalleled views of London. Up to two people at a time will be able to rent the temporary rooftop hotel – definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The boat design reflects the location, which offers sweeping views of the Thames River. The lower deck is comprised of a cozy double bedroom and ensuite bathroom walled in with windows for uninterrupted vistas, but you can get an even better look at the city from the balconies and ‘bridge’ on the upper deck.
More details, photographs and rates will be posted on the Living Architecture website when bookings begin on September 8th 2011. A Room for London will be available for the duration of 2012.
