the Two-Way Bench and swag railings which work together to highlight one of the neighborhood ’ s centerpiece features . The swag railing was developed to reflect the site ’ s nautical and industrial history , but done with modern , refined materials . The ipe
The design of Fan Pier Park allows both expansive and contemplative moments — capitalizing on the harbor views while also offering shady places to sit and relax .
and stainless Two-Way Bench was designed to allow users a choice when seated at the Well , and users can face either direction ( inwards towards the city or outwards towards the harbor ). The materials for each of the custom furnishings were chosen to withstand the challenges of marine environment weathering . Specifically , the 316 stainless steel was selected for its composition of chromium , nickel , and molybdenum , which inhibits steel corrosion in coastal climates .
Special Elements
The Tidal Well is the centerpiece feature of Fan Pier Park . The Tidal Well and its plaza acts as a literal and figurative site bridge , linking the site to the Harborwalk extension and referencing its own historic significance as a harbor slip . Working with marine engineers , dozens of steel piles were driven to make a durable and stable structure which is resistant to both wave action and coastal erosion . Massive concrete bulwark foundations were utilized with epoxy-coated rebar to further prevent corrosion . For visitors , stepped , terraced stone-block walls delineate the harbor ’ s hourly tidal action , making intelligible the dramatic ebb and flow of ocean tides throughout the day . The Well includes a cascading fountain element that moves ocean water down and across the stepped walls of the Well . Sited on axis with Fan Pier Boulevard , the Tidal Well also serves as the visual termination of a key neighborhood street . A custom-designed bridge carries the Harborwalk over the Tidal Well along its fifty-mile pedestrian and cycling route . To the west of the Tidal Well , a small , intimate node space centers on a fire feature along Fan Pier Park . This open flame creates an evening destination within the Park ; its warm glow serves to extend the Park ’ s use during the shoulder seasons . The circular space and arcing seatwall that surround the fire element are designed and scaled carefully to encourage conversation and provide respite along the Park ’ s stretch of the Harborwalk .
52 BSLA