Vancouver, B.C.’s raw, rocky waterfront underwent a metamorphosis led by landscape architect Paul Sangha, executed first for function and secondarily for fashion. This eye-catching sculpture, aptly dubbed Metamorphous, takes shape as a 200-ft. corten steel structure unfolding along the BC beachfront. The purpose of this unusual attraction? To halt the erosion of the shore line. While the outcome certainly performs its purpose, the designers’ aim was two-fold – also including an aesthetic aim in the mix. The structure echoes the natural sandstone formations appearing on Saturna Island which inspired this contemporary, industrial-style artwork.
After the King Tides eroded the BC shoreline in December 2012, the homeowners tasked the firm to come up with a creative solution to protect their oceanfront property from further erosion. (Before view.)
Together with oceanic engineers, Paul Sangha Landscape Architecture created their plans. Check out their sketches.
The company developed computer and material models of the Metamorphous project – its first very physical form.
The massive sculpture was built off site, within a controlled environment.
The industrial aesthetic is, oddly, right at home among the rocks and crashing waves.
Assembly took place on site.
The corten steel sculpture spans 200 ft. and combines with strategically places boulders, would dissolve the waves, so to speak, while creating a habitat for local plant life, and adding an amazing, modern focal point.
Paul Sangha Landscape Architecture
Paul Sangha
Vikas Tanwar – Project Lead
Jazmin Cedeno & Lara Davis – Design Team
