The studios Civic Architects and Bright Urban Futures designed a public pavilion on the central pier in the old city harbour of Tilburg, in the Netherlands. The oversized structure contains a public viewing platform and a restaurant, while preserving the docks for public use.

Built for grain shipment in early 20th century, the central pier of the Piushaven Harbour has ever since become a place for public events and leisure activities. The new structure facilitates a special combination of public and private activities, to maintain the quality of this space. The restaurant is positioned close to the water and offers visitors a beautiful view, while keeping 2/3 of the plot area open for public use. The roof structure also provides for the viewing deck, and acts as a shelter from the rain; this allows different events and leisure activities.

As for the design, the straightforward shape, the robust structure, the matt black façades and the combination of steel and wood are inspired by the historic constructions of the harbour. The roof also offers a technical solution: the structural beams that support the floor act as guardrails as well. The oversized structure also allows a two meter overhang, protecting the historic wooden foundation of the quay, providing a free floor plan layout, letting the deck free for public use.

Text written from the description provided by the architects.

 

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Piushaven Harbour Pavilion

Location: Hopliedenkade, Tilburg (NL)

Program: Restaurant, Elevated public deck, terrace, boat jetty

Surface: 260 square metres

Client: Orion Projectontwikkeling, Tilburg

Architects: Civic Architects & Bright urban Futures

Completion: December 2017