Steeplechase Pier
Post-Sandy Rebuild Project, Coney Island, NY, 2013
With LTL Architects
Client: New York City Department of Parks and Recreation
Area: 35,700 sq ft/ 3.300 sq m

This reconstruction project was intended to restore the structural integrity of Coney Island’s pier, destroyed by hurricane Sandy in 2012. The idea was to update its classic boardwalk also looking into the impact on tropical forests, and provide additional functionality while maintaining the feel and uses that people have come to know and expect. 

As required by the city, the originally used ipe (Brazilian tropical hardwood) which was destroyed by the Superstorm, was reused in the benches and other pier’s features, but the boardwalk itself was replaced by recycled plastic lumber. Benches, fishing stations, a recessed seating area, a grated opening, a canopy and a ramp enhance visitors’ experience. 

The entire project took place under an accelerated schedule, from design concept to construction bid documents over the course of three weeks. Luciana Varkulja was in charge to work on material research, 3D models, renderings and construction documents for BID set.