From land to sea : an exploration of Sargents Wharf design and redevelopment

Abstract

Based on the critique of privatization of the waterfront, design and d~velopment explorations are made to reinforce public access from the city to the water with emphasis on creating a clear sequence of public spaces that provide a variety of urban waterfront experiences. Sargents Wharf is chosen as the site for this exploration. It is the last publicly owned parcel in Boston North End/ Downtown waterfront that is still available for redevelopment A mix-use program is proposed to maximize the accessibility of the wharf to a broad group of users. The thesis draws together two development issues: (i) how public access and benefits can be generated by private development through public-private partnership and creative programming; and (ii) how real estate value can be created by quality design that incorporates public and private goals. The design exploration of Sargents Wharf focuses on linking the inner North End region with the waterfront, providing a territorial zone of exchange between land and water, and developing a unique mix use waterfront environment that creates real estate value. Design concepts are derived from the observation and transformation of the built and natural landscape. The intention is to create access continuity with thematic variation from the built to the unbuilt, enhancing a variety of experiences between the urban fabric and the natural landscape. This will bring to the public a new awareness of the relationship of the city and' the sea, as well as the opportunity to participate interactively with the water's edge.