BIG architects: st. petersburg pier competition shortlist

'st. petersburg pier' by BIG architects, st. petersburg, florida
all images © BIG architects
all images courtesy of the st. petersburg design competition


the proposal created by danish firm BIG architects is one of three shortlisted submissions for
the st. petersburg pier international design competition. the masterplan will organize and harmonize
a variety of individual events along a network of paths, merging to form the iconic pier structure
which will gradually flow into the waters of tampa bay. the branching pattern will collectively form
the 'tributary park' containing native plantings of diverse color schemes. the gardens will highlight
the programmatic sectors of the park including the museum, observation deck, playgrounds and natural
forested areas.



aerial view


bustling activity will be channeled towards the 'wave walk' which undulates to dip and rise from the water,
framing a swimming pool and small holding area for kayaks, canoes and small scale boats. similar to the waves
of the ocean, the increasing momentum generated by the volumes of people circulating onto the pier culminates
by looping the promenade overhead, sheltering people underneath and providing elevated views from the
generated roof terrace.

the plaza below the arch may be used for outdoor markets and as a band shell pavilion for concerts. the public spaces
terminate with a platform which submerges into the bay creating an additional view towards the city. exhibition spaces,
banquet halls and other public spaces will by placed inside the sculptural building.



view from the bay



wave walk



the wave



promenade loops into an arch to create outdoor seating



the wave can host a variety of public events



parade along the pier



atrium climbing wall inside the wave



inflatable bubble room for children



roof terrace on top of the looping structure



view of the wave from the tributary park



at sunset



concert viewing the city



at night



model



model



context plan



site plan



programmatic spaces along the wave walk



section



wave walk section



wave walk section



wave walk section



(left) seating oriented to view the city
(right) concert oriented to face the city



(left) concert oriented to overlook the water
(right) concerts facing both the city and water