PLAY CONCEPT
This concept centers nature play as a way to activate the extra space within the sites boundaries. Consisting of reclaimed, natural materials, this central idea inspires a child’s adventurous spirit while still allowing for a shared, beautiful space.
In this concept, the existing bulkhead is largely maintained, disrupted in small parts by a set of sittable steps down to the water’s edge. As water crashes against the bulkhead, wake energy is reduced. This is not very beneficial to local flora and fauna, but it is existing and still in good shape on site.
Primarily focuses on play spaces, but leaves room for those trying to reach the beach. Some access elements included.
Maintain Laurel Edging
ACCESS CONCEPT
This concept takes site and water access as it’s central themes. Featuring an upgraded primary staircase, this concept considers a clear-cut, easily traversable path, alongside stairs which support the movement of hand-carried boats and other water amuse-ables. Features a small launching pad and seating.
This concept draws on the existing boundaries rather than fully extending, making it the most compact proposal.
Similar to how a concrete bulkhead functions, this more natural approach with stones and other natural debris allows for wake-energy to dispurse by crashing into them. However, by raising the beach’s slope, this amount of wake energy evaporates over time.
This concept is entirely focused on water access.
Primarily focuses on habitat restoration.
Leaves room open for play opportunities.
RESTORATION CONCEPT
This concept takes a more in depth approach to reconstructing the site, though it does so by drawing on the history of the shoreline. The focus on restoring native planting and developing a naturalistic shoreline allows for some re-development of bird and other wildlife habitat.
Relying on some similar components to the “Access” concept, the restoration proposal features the addition of floating wetlands. These floating plant communities are known to clean water, improve shade, and generally support wild life. They also dampen wave energy.