james corner field operations wins navy pier competition

‘pierscape’ by james corner field operations, chicago, illinois all images courtesy of the navy pier vision

new york-based practice james corner field operations wins the navy pier competition, a redesign of the existing structure and tourist destination designed by daniel burnham to connect the people of chicago, illinois with lake michigan. positioned near the magnificent mile and cultural amenities, the plan links the elongated promenade into the urban fabric with a series of artist media and light installations to lead pedestrians under the elevated portion of lake shore drive. the sequence of social rooms and event spaces will improve the progression to the lakefront while expanding the network of social spaces and attractions within the city.

as visitors leave the city, they will encounter a series of active areas including the gateway park, children’s museum, crystal garden, pier park, east end park and north dock, beginning as sheltered spaces and becoming more open as they move towards the water to overlook the horizon. clearly defining an entry point, an atmosphere of mystery and discovery falls upon the individuals as they embark upon an unexpected journey. reducing the current vehicular conditions, the front porch’s plaza, lawns and promenade will support festivals, art works and social functions while placing bicyclists and pedestrians as priority.

new entry plaza and grand lawn

restaurants, boat access and entertainment venues are placed along terraces within the linear planking which parallels the docks, visually subdivided with exposed concrete bands. the singular material is diversified by shifting and then changing surface textures to create a varied experience. the south dock is vegetated and furnished, with multifunctional posts offering light, sound, signage and misted water. large pavilions to protect from weather will host smaller kiosks and delicately glow at night. an interior garden with hanging vegetal pods covered with ferns, mosses and vines or holding waterfalls and birds will host weddings, shows and parties. the planters may be elevated like chandeliers or placed on ground level for a forest-like grotto. the south-west side of the pier will introduce a floating pool with a sand beach along the lake with wooden stairs oriented towards the sun.

‘hidden nature’ along the northern edge of the pier will contain an ecosystem which can be supported by local institutions including the lincoln park zoo, shedd aquarium or peggy notebaart nature museum. supporting algae, birdlife and rockfish, the masterplan can also improve the ecological value of the pier.

south dock promenade