This proposal was for the revitalization of Huron river edge as it flows out into Lake Erie. Those that live in Huron and those returning to town, myself included, frequently take the walk along the exist pier out to the Huron Light house as if it was a pilgrimage of sorts. However, the existing site conditions are such that two existing piers are disconnected. This project proposes a new boardwalk that binds together disparate existing piers and provides a continuous walkway from the main marina at the center of town all the way to the Huron Lighthouse at the Lake. Twelve seasonal pavilions have been strategically arranged are equally spaced along this nearly mile long promenade to highlight various existing site features.

The pavilions offer various amenities such as eateries, boat and bike rentals, shops and markets, restrooms, and viewing platforms. The pavilions may hibernate or activate at various times throughout the year. A small boat rental cocoons in the winter while the warming hut and ice-skating rink comes alive. Others like the restaurant and tavern stay open all year. These structures mark the passage of time throughout the year. They act as temporal signposts. 12 is a reference to the telling of time. There is a very acute sense of the passage of time in the small town of Huron. The town’s economy thrives during the summer tourist season, but draws itself in during the frigid winters. There’s still activity but the town is a drastically different place. The questions is, can these 12 modest structures along this new promenade further activate the sense of place and the passage of time? Can we reinforce the temporal aspects of this place?

The construction of the pavilions is derived from a highly reductive modular building system comprised of a single beam/column element, a universal steel connector, and various panels based on a rigid modular system. The panels may be all wood shiplap, all glazed, operable, or louvered and can be placed in various arrangement. Once the main body of the building is erected, various “attachments”, such as spiral stairs, ramps, roofs, and balconies can be placed. The whole operation is a kit of parts. A pavilion can be expanded or reduced relatively easily as the economy and use dictates. This element of change also becomes a temporal indicated though perhaps on a longer scale. The elements of the structures can be mass manufactured in a factory and either prefabricated into building units or elements can be shipped to the site and field assembled. The mass manufacturing and relative ease of construction can help reduce costs for the town.

Originally developed as an undergraduate thesis, the project as been refined and reinvigorated over the years. The town of Huron, Ohio has taken interest in the overall project and has even implemented several ideas born from the project.