Noah's Ark: The five-star hotel that protects against natural disasters
Remistudio/Solent News/Rex Features
If you're a nervous traveller, a new hotel that can protect against natural disasters could be right up your street.
Award-winning architects have designed a modern-day Noah's Ark to withstand floods caused by rising sea levels.
The floating Ark Hotel is a man-made 'biosphere' designed to be a safe, self-contained haven in case of disaster.
Boasting a green, self-sustaining environment for guests, the shell-shaped hotel would withstand tidal waves and other natural disasters.
Architects say the Ark's shell-like construction of arches and cables evenly distribute weight so it is also invulnerable to earthquakes.
The design uses solar panels and a rainwater collection system to provide inhabitants with power and water.
Remistudio/Solent News/Rex Features
The greenhouse-like environment also provides for lush vegetation to help with air quality and provide food sources.
Because of the see-through structure enough daylight is filtered through internal rooms to reduce the need for lighting.
To ensure quality of light, the frame is protected with a self-cleaning layer.
The Ark has been designed by Russian firm Remistudio with the assistance of the International Union of Architects' programme 'Architecture for Disaster Relief'.
Remistudio/Solent News/Rex Features
Alexander Remizov of Remistudio said: "For architecture there are two major concerns. The first is maintenance of security and precautions against extreme environmental conditions and climate changes.
"The second one is protection of natural environment from human activities.
"The Ark is an attempt to answer the challenges of our time. Provision is made for an independent life support system.
"All the plants are chosen according to compatibility, illumination and efficiency of oxygen producing, and with the aim of creating an attractive and comfort space.
"Through the transparent roof there is enough light for plants and for illuminating the inner rooms."
The structure would work on both land and water - but it kind of looks like a giant snail, doesn't it?
See more 'weird' hotels around the world here:
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