Back in November, a number of designs from top architecture organizations from across the world were chosen as the top design finalists for what would become the new St. Petersburg Pier. These futuristic mega-structures elicited shock and awe from the public when they were first unveiled and now, a final design has been chosen. A new Pier is right on the horizon.
The design, called "The Lens" [pictured right] was chosen by a five person panel composed of city officials and experts in architecture, urban design and planning, and elected officials. "The Lens" won over two other designs named "The Eye" and "The Wave".
This was hardly a judgement of aesthetic beauty, though. The panel judged each design on factors including economic viability, sustainability, and the community's overall vision for the newly redisgned Pier.
Negotiations between Michael Maltzan Architecture, the firm that designed the lens, and the city of St. Petersburg are expected to begin immediately and take approximately 60 to 90 days. Construction is expected to begin anytime between 2013 and 2014 depending on permits and funding.
