Pedestrian Pier Design|Aranya

Art, Experience, Nature

Location: Beidaihe, Hebei

Time: 2019

WAY Studio was commissioned by ARANYA to redesign its existing pedestrian pier in Beidaihe.
.
Every year, like a ritual, the existing wooden deck is destroyed by massive seasonal waves during the fall. As the only space along the beach that extends into the ocean, we wish that it will not only provide a space for visitors to have a moment close to the nature, but that it retains the spirit and ritual driven by nature, becoming an artistic being, much like other constructions within ARANYA.
.
.
Concept
.
Inspired by its environment, WAY Studio designs a natural and simple pier that blends with the sea and sky, emphasizing the quiet atmosphere of the seashore. It’s also inspired by the works of Isamu Noguchi, especially his method of abstraction and his interpretation of space, both intrinsically thought-provoking. Reaching out towards nature, its curvature mimics the sleek motion of sea mammals. The shape is reminiscent of a pure organic form as if it was born from the ocean itself.
.
.
Design Features
.
Considering its original difficulties, two openings are designed into the platform in order to reduce pressure from the waves. The impact on the pier is reduced when excess force from the waves surges out through the hollows, like a fountain, transforming it into a performance itself. The design of a streamlined body, as inspired by sea mammals, is also based on the principle of fluid dynamics. Not only light and beautiful, but functional and safe as well.
.
The design retains as much of its original pillars as possible, decreasing the amount of underwater construction. Both budget friendly and environmentally friendly.