


The port of Papetoai consists of four standalone fares overlooking the water. These isolated structures give a fragmented and chaotic impression across the entire site. In the phased masterplan, the site is divided into four strips, each clearly defined by an existing or newly added boundary: the water, the quay, the garden park, and the parking area. Like the four fares, the green space on the site is also highly fragmented. The masterplan includes an expansion of the gardens, merging the disrupted landscape into a single, unified large garden. The site, as well as the garden, largely functions as a waiting area, providing visitors with a pleasant way to spend their time. The local population also plays a central role on the site. For them, it is one of the few easily accessible spots along the coastline, which they use to sell local products and engage in fishing. The main intervention consists of uniting the four fares under a single large canopy. The canopy cantilevers on each side, creating a visually clean horizontal line. It provides a dry connection between the existing fares during rainy weather and offers shade during the high season. The continuous structure creates extra space, allowing each group (tenders, musicians, artisans, taxi & bus, etc.) to claim their own area. The stepped roof planes let in light while avoiding direct sunlight in the tropical climate of French Polynesia.
REDEVELOPMENT OF THE PAPETOAI PORT
Location: Papetoai, Tahiti
Client: Ministère du tourisme et du travail, Service du tourisme, Tahiti