Architectural Cases

Tigg + Coll Architects have unveiled their latest creation, The Float House, a groundbreaking modular floating residence positioned on the Grand Union Canal in Ruislip, northwest London. This innovative family dwelling seamlessly merges contemporary aesthetics with advanced technological solutions, setting a new benchmark for sustainable water-based living. The architectural firm was tasked with conceiving a bespoke aquatic home that would supersede the client's previous canal barge, which no longer met the spatial and accessibility demands of their expanding family and its evolving health considerations.

A primary design imperative was to ensure future accessibility, allowing for level entry throughout the property. This was a crucial departure from conventional canal barges, where internal floor levels typically reside beneath the waterline, often leading to undesirable cold and damp environments. Significantly, the family expressed a strong desire to remain within the established community of 35 houseboats at the private Hampton Hall Farm residential mooring, despite its picturesque yet spatially constrained setting.

The Float House represents a remarkable achievement in modern architecture, offering a spacious and comfortable living environment that intelligently responds to its unique waterfront context. Its modular construction not only facilitates efficient assembly but also underscores a commitment to adaptability and future-proofing. By elevating the living spaces above the water, Tigg + Coll Architects have ingeniously addressed the comfort and health concerns associated with traditional canal dwellings, providing a brighter, drier, and more inviting home.

The successful integration of cutting-edge design principles with practical accessibility features highlights the architects' deep understanding of the client's needs and their ability to translate these into a visionary architectural solution. The project exemplifies how thoughtful design can transform the challenges of an unconventional site into opportunities for innovation, creating a residence that is both beautiful and highly functional.

This innovative project showcases the potential of modular construction in creating sustainable and adaptable housing solutions for unique environments. The Float House stands as a testament to how architectural ingenuity can enhance quality of life while respecting the character of its surroundings, proving that advanced design can coexist harmoniously with natural settings.

IGArchitects, established in 2020 by Masato Igarashi and based in Tokyo and Saitama, Japan, is gaining recognition for its innovative approach to design. The firm, a recipient of the ArchDaily 2025 Next Practices Awards, is dedicated to crafting lasting architectural works through a thoughtful and assertive manipulation of structural elements, spatial proportions, and material selection. Igarashi's diverse professional history, which includes working on expansive developments at Shimizu Sekkei and intricate conceptual designs at Suppose Design Office, deeply influences IGArchitects' current specialization in residential and commercial projects throughout Japan.

Masato Igarashi's journey began with a solid foundation in large-scale architectural endeavors at Shimizu Sekkei, where he honed his skills in managing significant projects. This experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in urban development and construction. Following this, his tenure at Suppose Design Office allowed him to delve into more conceptual and detail-oriented work, exploring unique design philosophies and innovative solutions on a smaller scale. This dual exposure to both grand and intimate projects equipped him with a versatile toolkit that now defines IGArchitects' distinctive style.

The studio's philosophy centers on the idea of architecture as a living medium, constantly interacting with its environment and inhabitants. This perspective manifests in designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, resilient, and deeply integrated with their surroundings. IGArchitects’ projects, predominantly in the residential and commercial sectors, showcase a consistent commitment to quality and a keen eye for how structural integrity, appropriate scale, and the inherent properties of materials contribute to the longevity and character of a building.

IGArchitects' recognition with the ArchDaily 2025 Next Practices Awards underscores its forward-thinking approach and its potential to shape the future of architecture. The firm's work in Japan, particularly in the dynamic urban landscape of Tokyo and the more suburban setting of Saitama, exemplifies a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese design principles with contemporary architectural innovation. Their portfolio reflects a mastery of creating spaces that feel both modern and timeless, reflecting a deep respect for context and a clear vision for the future.

IGArchitects' commitment to exploring architecture as a dynamic and enduring art form is evident in every project they undertake. By meticulously considering the interplay of structure, scale, and materiality, the firm consistently delivers designs that are not only visually striking but also deeply rooted in functionality and longevity. This holistic approach ensures that each building stands as a testament to thoughtful design and a profound understanding of architectural principles.