We are immensely proud of Architectural Assistant Lewis Williams whose submission to the Atlantic Beach Regeneration Competition has been made it to the final round! The competition’s jury anonymously selected three finalists from a very strong field of designs from all over the world.
The final say is now down to public vote!
‘The Waves’ by Lewis Williams
The boardwalk is a staple urban feature along beachfronts the world over. A cosmopolitan
collection of cafe’s, shops, vendors, information and leisure activities fight for the visitor’s
attention. The result is a socially focused hive of community activity. This proposal looks to
build upon the already vibrant culture of the Atlantic Beachfront and make it a destination for
North Carolina.
The proposal maintains the linear nature of the existing boardwalk and transforms it into High
Street typology. As visitors make their way from one end to the other, they discover pockets of
activity and program along its length. The Pavilion sits centre stage, and forms a convenient
gathering place. It has been designed as a multi use structure, with such uses as a stage,
market hall or shaded seating space. The carousel harks back to the glory days of beach
holidays and the splashpad provides a similar node at the opposite end of the scheme.
Permanent kiosk vendors and a beach club service hungry beach goers, whilst a skatepark
and climbing wall provide leisure experiences and entertainment. Between these there are
small niches in which to relax and view artwork shaded by maturing palms. Visitors gain a
historical understanding of the boardwalk through interpretation panels in the floor,
positioned at relevant points along the proposal.
A simple timber decking mirrors the lapping waves, and small, simple structures reference the
colourful structures of the past. Materials, textures and colour define spaces, and trees bring
texture to the spaces.
Together, the scheme hopes to fulfil the wishes of the local residents and visitors alike, and
create a more dynamic, people focused outdoor space in which to enjoy.
