Greetings from San Juan! ;
[a proposal for a cruise terminal hub]
San Juan, Puerto Rico | Collaborators: David Emmons, Claire Gaspin
As one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations, the port of San Juan is increasingly becoming the infrastructural hub of cruise tourism. The current temporary infrastructural system is proving to be inconsistent and convoluted, with no permanent terminal stations and an awkward transition from the water to the city. In our proposal, the pier strategy creates a linear strip of program and circulation which allows the form of the complex to reform the shape of the city. This also allows Old San Juan to have a direct relationship to the water’s edge along Calle Marina without being barricaded by cruise ships. Six cruise ships can dock in a diagonal scheme, connecting to the branches of the pier where the terminals are located.The pier becomes activated with markets, shops, and recreation areas – creating an “exit through the gift shop” experience for people visiting San Juan. The linearity and vibrancy of the scheme builds a strong one-point-perspective, reminiscent of the colorful streets of Old San Juan.