AN ACCELERATED EROSION

Since the early 2000s, the Pointe aux Piments beach has been eroding steadily. This is observed by the constant area of rocks exposed every year as the beach erodes. But since 2016, this process has accelerated, and one of the reasons is because of climate change.

FINANCIAL AND CULTURAL LOSS

Financially, beach erosion decreases the revenue of hotels that rely on the beach to attract tourists.

Culturally, locals fear the loss of a Mauritian way of life as going to the beach will not be so common in the next few decades.

“Sad, it is devastating 

the nature”

“Would feel really sad because

 its been here since childhood”

“Well it will be really heartbreaking 

and would cause many

 problems to society”

LACK OF AWARENESS

An online survey showed that 61% of the locals selected costal developments reasons for the cause of beach erosion. Although valid, climate change has become the main reason. Without being aware of the real problem, efforts will be invested in the wrong solutions and beaches will continue to erode significantly.

CONCEPTUAL EMBODIMENT

A bench was designed as it reflects the communal usage and belonging of the beach. The form was inspired by driftwoods found along the coast as their deteriorated states were reminiscent of the exposed rocks.

TAPERED FORM

The tapered form is meant to recreate the uncomfortable experience of sitting and walking on the slanted beach, a consequence of beach erosion.

FOOTPRINT-LIKE TEXTURE

The upper-half of the bench has a smooth surface to symbolize the natural erosion of the beach, the lower-half has a footprint-like texture to symbolize the rapid deterioration caused by human activities. 

ACCOMMODATING TO A WIDER AUDIENCE

The beach of Pointe aux Piments - Portion 3 had been chosen as the focal site as it is well received by both the locals and tourists, hence engaging a wider audience. With its tapered form, the bench is able to accommodate a range of users, with the higher end for adults and the lower end for children.