Communities in coastal Louisiana are extremely prone to natural hazards such as flooding, storm surge, subsidence, and sea level rise. These chronic environmental problems threaten Louisiana’s unique way of life. Coastal Louisiana must protect itself by rethinking its residential design, with homes better suited to a dynamic and volatile natural system. 

The Coastal Spine demonstrates adaptability, innovation, and pragmatism on several scales: the greater network across the coast, the intimate relationship within each community, and the personal home. At each scale, the spine reinforces the importance of connectivity through the landscape. Three components of the spine are interwoven into each scale: the elevated bridge system, the protective shells, and the home. Elevation avoids inundation from storm surge; the shell protects from wind impact; the home itself provides comfort and stability for the family. The environment flows through the spinal system as it restores community resources via on-site renewable energy with wind turbines, solar power generation, and rainwater storage. These elements allow residents to feel prepared for both sudden and long term adverse natural conditions.  

HOME is the backbone of the coast—preserving Louisiana’s culture and challenging ideas of connectivity, resiliency, and perseverance in this unpredictable environment.