German firm proposes organic futuristic design for WE Ferry Terminal
In one design proposed by INROS Lackner S.E., a company awarded the design contract to the tune of $1,048,909, for the construction management of the terminal, the German firm presented a modern approach to the port of entry.
Public expected to comment on designs
Speaking during a February 6, 2022, community meeting at West End Community Centre, the Premier said the meeting was about ensuring that the public can see the proposed design and make comments on it, so that the project can be fine-tuned to be one of the best ports in the VI.
Dr Karsten Galipp, the Project Manager at INROS Lackner S.E., said based on the assumption that construction work would begin on July 1, 2022, a projected completion date would be the end of November 2023.
“It is challenging but it would be possible,” he said regarding a possible timeline of the project.
A New 3D images video released yesterday, February 8, 2022, show a much more detailed design that paints a picture of what the proposal could look like when complete, including areas for a bar and nightlife.
One of the challenges, according to Galipp, was that the existing land at the port is narrow and as such, the concept would also need to make use of reclaimed land to facilitate more vessels and vehicle drop-off points with plans for a multi-story car park.
Solar panels & hurricane fabric
The designs also proposed a private jetty for boats with three possible designs based on maneuvering challenges and the need to drudge the ocean.
Architect Torsten Illigen said the roof of the proposed designs will also feature solar panels and can also be retrofitted with hurricane fabric during the Atlantic Hurricane Season as added protection.
More features would include a grand lobby for arrivals to the port with various additions including a food pavilion and departure lounges on the inside.
“What is different to all the other options we have seen before from the other consultants, is that we want to introduce to the terminal, like a real entrance lobby and exit lobby,” he said while detailing more features of the proposed designs.
Building taking VI into the future - RDA Supervisor
Sergio Dantas, CDB Contract Supervisor and Project Manager for the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) reminded that the design is a preliminary design that is not finalised, since more changes could come in terms of adjustments.
He said the design of the building is one that is looking into the future of the VI some 30 – 50 years ahead, where an influx of more passengers and travelers is expected.
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21 Responses to “German firm proposes organic futuristic design for WE Ferry Terminal”
We know our country and the type of challenges it faces. While the building is beautiful to look at, this type of design is inappropriate for that location. And quite frankly I am surprised that this design was even presented to the people by our officials who should have known better and demanded a revision. For $1M+, I would have expected the design firm to have put more background research into just what sort of environment they are placing the proposed structure in.
Just saying... can we get some value for money? For once? Please?
Watch the video presentation here...
My God, the box and square foolishness, that we currently see around Road Town as "exquisite" architectural designs,-this is a breath of fresh air!!!
Way to go, Premier Fahie!
Ten more futuristic designs like this going forward, PLEASE??
Signed: Ausar