Nelson’s Hall Street Pier project has received the Canadian Architect magazine’s award of excellence.
The city announced the achievement in a media release on Wednesday. The project, that’s set to be completed by spring, was initially proposed almost 13 years ago. Despite the challenges faced, the city expresses pride in the project and appreciation for the recognition
Since 1967, Canadian Architect magazine has consistently awarded and recognized outstanding projects across the country during the design and construction phases.
The city’s release emphasizes that the design was specifically acknowledged by the award jurors for its impact in making Nelson’s waterfront an integral part of people’s everyday lives.
“The design articulation of how a shared and undervalued community asset has a voice through architectural exploration is so important,” said juror Claire Weisz in the release.
“In this case, the cut-out pier designed to allow safe swimming—coupled with a series of open and community-responsive spaces, including a shaded portal, porches, and paths—will create an appropriately scaled but powerful lakeside public space.”
Another juror, Michael Heeney, applauded how the project harmoniously intertwines land and water activities.
“This project takes the pier typology to a new level, and the architecture allows you to imagine a much wider range of activities on both land and water than what is usually supported by a public pier. The swimming enclosure is particularly wonderful, but the range of events and daily activities imagined and supported by the pier’s architecture is also fantastic.”
The city states that receiving the award is an honor, with Mayor Janice Morrison adding how proud she is of her community.
“The Hall Street Pier project symbolizes the spirit of our community, blending innovation with heritage and creating a space where residents and visitors can come together to celebrate the beauty of Nelson. This award is a testament to our commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive city that treasures its past while embracing the future.”
Vista Radio reached out to a local architect and representative of the Pier’s’ design team Matthew Stanley for a comment but haven’t received a response yet.
