Recently chosen as one of the selected entries for the MOMA PS1 Rockaway Call for Ideas, the 'Occupy the Dune' proposal by Balmori Associates focuses on an infrastructure as the center for civic activity, protecting the community while connecting it socially and ecologically. Vegetation that colonizes the dunes surface is the most critical part of the ecosystem, adding strength and stability to blunt extreme winds and storm surge. More images and architects' description after the break.
Many inhabited coastal areas have flat beaches leaving the city and beachfront program exposed to violent storm events. Creating dunes makes these areas more resilient; however it can become an obstacle separating the community and activities from the coastal landscape.
The protected area formed between the primary and secondary dunes is less sensitive and this interstitial space becomes a linear park hosting an array of civic and recreational activities for residents and visitors. Prefabricated concrete storm drainage boxes are used to create void spaces in the base of the dunes.
The ready-mades create room for different types of programs that evolve over time -- temporary housing for displaced residents, community activities, cabanas, cafes, retail shops -- and act as passages between city and coastal landscape. If the dune is breached, the ready-mades can be easily reorganized and the dune formation process begins again.
