CRATER PLAN 1:50

Legend

Baby Steps

To allow visitors to safely and efficiently traverse the densley vegetated crater, small basalt steps are to be inserted at intervals where the terrain has been identified as challenging either due to the existing path having been worn away, or difficult terrain conditions. This will channel foot traffic along a more robust route, and prevent accidental damage to the surrounding vegetation.

View platforms provide access to angles which highlight particular ecological interest and small basalt pillars have QR codes taking visitors to educational resources.

1:100

Handland basalt steps improve accessibilty channel foot traffic to protect the fragile vegetation within the crater.

Exploring The Cinder Cones

The cinder cones contain important environments which speak to the wider ecological and geological character of Pico island. This section of the design proposal implements a series of carefully positioned basalt steps, paths and steel handrails, which aim to create a complete visitor experience through these caves by harmoniously integrating these man made elements into the natural environment.

CAVE PLAN 1:100

2. BASALT STEPS

Steps constructed from cut basalt slabs attached to a concrete base allows steps to be formed around any rocks in the way.

1. PATH CONSTRUCTION

Handlaid basalt slabs sourced from a quarry in Terciera. A coarse natural finish to compliment the surrounding cave rock.

Visitors arrive at the basalt column seating, where their journey into the volcanic cones begins.

1:10 PATH SECTION @ A3

The raised pathway allows easy traversal across the uneven terrain inside the lava tube while minimising any intrusive construction.

A galvanised steel frame holds the reinforced cast concrete slab upon which re-purposed basalt slabs will be cut and laid on. This allows the path to “envelop” any protruding cave rocks, giving the path a softer, more organic feel.

rails

Reinforced cast concrete core