Fire Island Pines Pavilion

Scope

The Fire Island Pines Pavilion bar and nightclub is an icon of Fire Island Pines, one of New York’s favorite summertime getaways since the 1950s. In 2011, a devastating fire destroyed the original Pavilion, and EDG was brought on to serve as the structural engineer for the new 8,000-sq.ft. structure. EDG worked alongside award-winning architectural designer HWKN who crafted a dramatic design to honor the legendary site.

Approach

With the building’s three-dimensional surfaces and angular form, timber construction proved more challenging than typical construction methods, but EDG’s experience designing with a wide range of materials allowed EDG to successfully develop a unique timber framing system. EDG also worked with local contractors to determine best practices and preferred materials for the area during the design phase. The mass timber structure is comprised almost entirely of renewable wood resources, from the timber piles and pile caps, to the floors, roof, walls, and all other exposed surfaces.

Impact

It includes a terrace, outdoor bar and lounge, indoor bar, and dance floor with bleachers at each end, as well as a gym and three retail spaces. Although the venue regularly serves as a club and hosts parties at night, the space is also used for performances, as an art gallery, and even a wedding chapel in the daytime. To celebrate the Pines’ beloved beach culture, the design incorporates exposed-wood surfaces and structural materials throughout, creating the perfect beach backdrop for any event.