Twin Park Pavilions on the Hudson River Balancing Nature and Urban Environment
Introduction
Two new pavilions have been developed along the Hudson River to provide integrated public spaces that respond to their surrounding environment and address the challenges of flood-prone areas. The design aims to create a continuous spatial experience connecting the parks with the waterfront, balancing built structures with natural landscapes while enhancing circulation and community interaction.
Site and Project Type
The first pavilion is located on the western side of the river on a former industrial site, while the second sits in a low-lying area prone to flooding. Both serve as extensions of the public park system, offering walking and cycling paths, recreational spaces, and sports areas, creating a seamless connection between visitors and the natural environment.
Design Concept and Architectural Approach
- Western Pavilion: Comprising three interconnected volumes under a precisely sculpted concrete canopy, including a concession stand, restrooms, and a service unit. The geometric perforations in the canopy allow natural light to reach the planted rooftops, generating dynamic light patterns that change throughout the day, enhancing the spatial experience.
- Floodplain Pavilion: Positioned at the park’s highest point, it incorporates portals and open frames that provide views of the water and surrounding pathways. The perforated steel canopy functions both visually and functionally, allowing climbing plants to grow onto the roof, creating a visual and ecological link between the pavilion and the landscape.
Relationship Between Form and Function
- The design of the canopies and openings mediates between enclosed and open spaces, encouraging circulation and community engagement.
- The pavilions are designed to promote outdoor interaction without relying on large interior spaces.
- The distribution of natural light through the openings enhances visual comfort, creating a dynamic spatial experience for visitors.
Materials, Sustainability, and Environmental Integration
- High-performance concrete is used for the western pavilion, while perforated steel and flood-resistant glass are employed for the floodplain pavilion to ensure structural resilience while maintaining visual connection with the surroundings.
- Planted rooftops and open canopies serve as water management systems, improve air quality, and mitigate heat exposure.
- Elevated windows and doors protect against flooding, while rainwater detention systems support sustainable water management within the park.
- Climbing plants integrate the pavilions with the surrounding green spaces, strengthening the visual and functional relationship between the architecture and nature.
Project Summary Table
| Element | Western Pavilion | Floodplain Pavilion |
|---|---|---|
| Location | West side of the river | Low-lying flood-prone area |
| Site Area | 5.65 acres | 5.4 acres |
| Number of Volumes | 3 volumes | 2 volumes + community hall + café |
| Materials | High-performance concrete | Perforated steel, flood-resistant glass |
| Design Concept | Sculpted canopy for light and dynamic patterns | Open portals and perforated canopy for plant integration |
| Form-Function Relationship | Connects enclosed and open spaces, guides circulation | Links community activities with park and waterfront |
| Sustainability | Planted rooftops, light wells, rainwater management | Rainwater detention, rooftop vegetation, flood resilience |
| Environmental Integration | Integration with park and river, continuous visual experience | Visual and functional connection with landscape and visitors |
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
The twin pavilions along the Hudson River offer a cohesive architectural experience, dominated by perforated concrete and steel canopies that channel natural light onto planted rooftops, while interconnected volumes form open pathways framing views of the river and surrounding greenery. Critically, the design approach emphasizes the relationship between enclosed and open spaces, yet the limited interior areas could constrain certain communal functions. Nonetheless, the project successfully enhances visitor interaction with the natural environment, providing a seamless connection between architecture and landscape. Overall, it delivers significant value to public park spaces by harmonizing aesthetic appeal with environmental functionality.
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