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A project at the iconic Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, has added infrastructural improvements to the area centered around the theme of respect, with the aim of enhancing visitor experience.
According to the project’s architect, Omar Gandhi Architects (OGA), the central theme of respect finds its way in paying deference to the forces of nature that shape the barren landscape, as well as toward the local families and the village’s character. Maintaining a balance between man-made and natural elements in the landscape is also part of the respect; and lastly, respect is given to people of all abilities, allowing them to share the atmosphere and spirit of the iconic Canadian landmark.
To ensure a sensitive approach, the architect addressed longstanding issues and helped the community chart a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive path forward. The architect’s efforts needed to seamlessly integrate with various contexts, ranging from the charming fishing shacks in the cove to the desolate landscape near the rocks.
Constructing any kind of structure in these environments comes with challenges. To minimize any risks to the new infrastructure, the architect conducted extensive wave modelling to determine the optimal elevation for placing the primary components and considered the impact of rising sea levels on the future of the landmark, providing protection against the powerful waves crashing along the coastline.
The choice of primary materials for this area was based on their availability and familiarity to the community. It was crucial for the construction to blend in with well-established building principles and the existing material culture. The structure was carefully integrated into the landscape to minimize any disruption to traditional views or area usage. The guard rails incorporate open netting sections that allow the wind to pass through, ensuring uninterrupted views, while solid segments provide shelter from the wind at specific points along the way.
The new walking surface connects the two main access points of the site, facilitating connectivity and offering opportunities for community engagement. It also underscores the need for additional amenities to accommodate and disperse the annual influx of visitors.
An overarching objective throughout the project was to make the new infrastructure fully accessible, serving as a model for accessibility in Nova Scotia. The viewing platform provides a level surface from the drop-off zone to the parking area, replacing a former road loop that posed accessibility and safety challenges. Ramps, tactile indicators, and handrails were implemented to make navigating the site easier. The new public washroom facilities surpass the current building code requirements with larger hallways and stalls. In addition, an adult changing table ensures dignity and respect for all facility users.
The viewing platform creates an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the lighthouse and the unique topography from an elevated and protected area, making the site accessible to a wider audience. Seating is available to support individuals who may move at a different pace or wish to spend an extended time taking in the view. The expansion of green spaces includes planters and landscaped areas that incorporate a variety of native plant species. This supports and sustains the local ecology while educating a broader audience about the unique biosphere of the coastal barrens.
Other project collaborators who helped with harbourside engineering were Englobe, Trim Landscaping, EDM Planning Services, Thompson Conn Limited, Gemtech Consulting Engineers & Scientists, Tate Engineering; Boreas Heritage, Greytop Construction, and CBCL Engineering.
