What Is a Stilt House?
A stilt house is a raised structure that is most commonly built above water, although it also may be built over dirt or sand. It is sometimes called a pile dwelling because it is supported by large stakes, known as piles, which are driven directly into the water or into the shoreline. These structures typically rest 10 – 12 feet (3.5 – 4 meters) off the ground to allow for high tide, and are designed to avoid flooding and water damage. Created from bamboo or other water-resistant timber and reinforced with deck boards and sometimes concrete, stilt houses can be found throughout the world.
