New River Estuary Restaurant

Southern Institute of Technology

Project idea

The aim of this project was to create a concept along a waterfront of a neglected estuary, bringing people back to a place that once thrived. The site is reserve land, thus the concept needs to allow users to be able to enjoy the surrounding environment and wild life.

Creating a building that brings in more people from the city to socalise, reflect and allow users to still enjoy and connect to the nature and wildlife on this reserve land was the most important idea for my concept.

Project description

The project consists of the following spaces. A main dining area, exhibition space to display local artwork, an outdoor area including a look out and seating area, a bar, kitchen service areas, and a private conference room.

The building form consists of the use of triangular shapes in the main dinning space and cantilever deck highlight, which views by giving users a point to access views in all directions, and a look out point for photos or bird watching etc.

By adjusting height to certain parts of exterior walls, it creates extra natural light, maximises views. Thus, creates a unique shaped roof that breaks up the dining area below, and a façade that reflects the shape of the deck.

Technical information

The construction of the building consists of structural precast walls, timber framing, structural steel columns and beams, and curtain walls.

The main structural component of my design is the cantilever deck. The external west wall sits on a sheet pile wall along the waterfront, the cantilever deck is supported by framing and trusses connected to this sheet pile system, to give the deck a floating effect.