swirling floating ocean deck by RAD+ar utilizes reclaimed ironwood

Pusaran Ocean Deck floats in Karimun Jawa Archipelago

Pusaran Ocean Deck, designed by RAD+ar, is an innovative project located on a private island in the Karimun Jawa archipelago, Indonesia. This structure is an experiment in constructing sustainable spaces in the ocean using reclaimed ironwood, preserving the natural marine environment. The client aimed to expand their shark observation pool into a tourist-friendly area, despite the challenges of building on a site generally unsuitable for traditional construction methods.

The design of Pusaran, meaning ‘whirlpool’ in Bahasa Indonesia, utilizes locally sourced timber to create multi-level activity areas that minimize disturbance to the underwater biota. The ocean observation deck floats in the middle of the sea, offering diverse activities such as diving, water sports, sunbathing, and even a dedicated prayer deck. The concept prioritizes both entertainment and education while preserving the local ecosystem.

all images by William Sutanto

RAD+ar crafts a Sustainable Timber Construction

In contrast to typical water constructions made of heavy, less corrosive-resistant concrete, Pusaran employs 100% vernacular timber, which is both durable and environmentally friendly. The design, inspired by ocean waves and the activities of the shark observation pool, features swirling ironwood structures extending from the deck to diagonal elements and facades that serve as windbreakers and shades. The roof also functions as a water-jump runway.

Built on the foundation of the existing shark observation pool, Pusaran incorporates glass floors and railings to showcase the vibrant coral life cultivated by visitors and the owner. Hidden storage spaces enhance its function as an educational deck, allowing for the observation of marine life and natural elements in the open waters of Karimun Jawa. Acknowledging the Muslim faith of the majority of Karimun Jawa’s inhabitants, Pusaran includes a separate prayer deck oriented towards Kabaa. This feature creates a unique spiritual space that harmonizes with the natural oceanic setting.

Pusaran aims to coexist with the natural coral ecosystems, providing a space where newly planted corals and various water activities can thrive together. This project is part of RAD+ar studio’s initiative to promote sustainable construction practices across Indonesia. The open layout and use of reclaimed materials demonstrate how simple, sustainable design can be both educational and entertaining for tourists in Karimun Jawa.

Pusaran Ocean Deck by RAD+ar is located on a private island in the Karimun Jawa archipelago, Indonesia

the project utilizes reclaimed ironwood to construct sustainable spaces in the ocean

designed to expand a shark observation pool, Pusaran transforms the area into a tourist-friendly destination

the multilevel observatory deck preserves its natural marine environment

the deck’s design, inspired by ocean waves, uses locally sourced timber to create multi-level activity areas

RAD+ar promotes sustainable construction practices, demonstrating the potential of reclaimed materials in design

unlike typical concrete water constructions, Pusaran employs 100% vernacular timber, durable and eco-friendly

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plan

section

program zoning

wave-like structure

project info:

name: Pusaran Ocean Deck

architect: RAD+ar (Research Artistic Design + architecture) | @radarchitects

lead architect: Antonius Richard Rusli

design team: Junovan Muhammad, Dimas Rafidhiya Nugraha, Auliyana Khasana

location: Karimun Jawa, Indonesia

photography: William Sutanto – Arti Pictures | @artipictures

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom