organic pedestrian pier in aranya, china, draws from isamu noguchi's method of abstraction

a new pier for aranya

beijing-based WAY studio was commissioned by aranya, china’s booming tourism hotspot, to redesign its existing pedestrian pier in the beidaihe district. every year, like a ritual, the existing wooden deck is destroyed by massive seasonal waves during the fall. drawing from the natural environment, as well as the abstract work of isamu noguchi, the new design generates an organic dock that extends into the ocean, allowing visitors to closely interact with their surroundings. 

the new design generates an organic dock that extends into the ocean

all images courtesy of WAY studio

born from the ocean

the new pier design by WAY studio draws influence by the natural environment, taking shape as a simple organic structure that blends with the sea and sky, and emphasizes the quiet atmosphere of the seashore. the architects’ work is also inspired by the works of isamu noguchi, especially his method of abstraction and his interpretation of space, both intrinsically thought-provoking. reaching out towards the sea, the new dock appears fluid and soft, as if it were born from the ocean itself.

considering its original difficulties, two openings are designed into the platform in order to reduce pressure from the waves. the impact on the pier is reduced when excess force from the waves surges out through the hollows, like a fountain. in this way, the structure and its relationship with the ocean transforms into an artistic performance. the design of a streamlined body, as inspired by sea mammals, is also based on the principle of fluid dynamics. the new design is not only light and beautiful, but also functional and safe. the pier retains as much of its original pillars as possible, decreasing the amount of underwater construction. as a result, the project is both budget-friendly and environmentally friendly. 

the new pier takes shape as a simple organic structure that blends with the sea and sky

the design of a streamlined body, as inspired by sea mammals, is also based on the principle of fluid dynamics

the new structure allows visitors to closely interact with the ocean

project info:

name: new aranya pier

designer: WAY studio
location: aranya, beidaihe district, china

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom