P-S-I Ferry Terminal.
P-S-I Ferry Terminal.
The master scheme charts a playful yet thoughtful architectural journey from permanence to semi-permanence to impermanence, seamlessly reflected in its tectonics, form, program, and ideology. At the most permanent end, the concrete sheared wall stands as a colossal windbreaker, a protector for Treasure Island's seafront "against" nature. It houses all things ferry-related, because, that's the one program we bet isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Like natural ridges standing against the wind, this wall could easily outlast its surroundings, defying time and any reason to be bulldozed. Moving toward semi-permanence, the open-air middle space becomes a bustling pedestrian zone. While pedestrian traffic might seem more transient than a market, we make the case that markets are the real impermanent spaces, where goods, ideas, and trends roll in and out faster than the latest pop-up store. Reflecting this fleeting nature, the A-frame timber structure is designed for easy disassembly and sustainable reuse—ready to pack up and move on, much like the Golden Gate Expo once did, leaving behind not just memories but, with luck, a stash of recycled timber. The design incorporates sustainable strategies, including passive and active ventilation systems, solar panels, and geothermal heating, with thoughtfully placed openings for natural light control. The building's orientation maximizes natural daylight while minimizing heat gain, creating comfortable spaces throughout the seasons. Landscaping reflects the same dichotomy: the concrete side embraces shaggy, permanent vegetation that will mature over decades, while the timber side features dynamic, movable potted greenery that can be rearranged to create different spatial experiences. This project not only serves its primary function as a ferry terminal but also creates a meaningful dialogue about time, permanence, and the evolution of public space in urban environments. Through its thoughtful design and material choices, it demonstrates how architecture can adapt to changing needs while maintaining a strong connection to both its past and future.