1 minute read
TURNING: SUNCOR TERMINAL
from Ryan Bell Portfolio
by Ryan Bell
Location | Oakville, ON Canada
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Advisors | Eric Nay, Kourosh Mahvash 2022
Today, it is easy to tell when an aging structure begins to look out of place or indicate a sense of not belonging. This is the case with the Suncor Terminal in Oakville, owned and operated by Suncor Energy. This site has been developed around for the last two decades with parks, beaches, trails, residential condominiums and more.
Suncor Energy produces and distributes synthetic crude from oil sands. This practice generates large waste ponds and produces excessive levels of pollutants such as sulfur dioxide.
The intention is to repurpose the Suncor Terminal into a community-driven area that engages the public with a beautiful waterfront space. The project will serve as an activity hub for residents of the area that will anchor interchangeable event barges, connected via a pathway system composed of floating vegetation planters. At the end of the pier, the Great Lakes Fish Market provides a space for local fishers to set up small stands and locals can purchase fresh seafood.
Each element plays a harmonious role in reflecting key values of the relationship between water and land and builds upon a culture of coexisting inhabitants - the community and the natural environment. Not only does this allow for unique design possibilities as the Suncor Terminal is different from any other, but it provides insight into the way architecture can create experiences and establish a foundational approach in critical thinking.
Adjacent Connections
• Hexagons follow the fibonacci sequence, a pattern that is ubiquitos in nature
• Represents biomimicry by acknowledging natures effective solutions to thrive
Hexagon Pattern
• Built entirely from recycled plastics
• Constructed into hexagonal pods to mimic the landscape
• Used to create gardens and/or habitat for wildlife
Walkway Inclusion
• Addition of walkway encourages user interaction with newly established ecosystems
• Offers flexibility to create a broad variety of walking routes and means of accessibility
System Concept
• Building blocks combine into floating platforms and walkways weave through green areas
• Fulfills an ecological role because nature grows on the upper side, and stimulates marine life on the under side
