Seafront Architecture: A New Wave of Resilient Design

Abstract

New Zealand's coastline has long connected communities, evolving over centuries. Today, coastal areas are home to those seeking either affluence or a slower pace of life. However, these regions face significant challenges from rising sea levels and coastal erosion, worsened by climate change and human activity. This thesis explores design interventions for public coastal spaces to address these risks and support habitation while also making nature more of a priority over human-centric design. Focusing on a specific site, the research employs mapping, design practice, and model-making to develop strategies for mitigating erosion and enhancing community resilience. The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge about future coastal design practices, and how ecology can play a significant role, offering foundational steps rather than definitive solutions.