Hall Street Pier Canopy

The Hall Street Pier sits at a pivotal point where Downtown Nelson meets the shoreline of Kootenay Lake. The vision for the new pier was centered on welcoming locals and visitors alike and connecting the city to the water, while simultaneously replacing an underutilized, polluting structure that had long outlived its usefulness.

The inspiration for the project emerged from a reinterpretation of the Ladybird, a legendary speedboat built in Nelson that broke the world record in 1933. The Ladybird’s success was the result of a city-wide collaborative effort, and it remains a source of civic pride. That same spirit of community participation has defined the Hall Street Pier, turning this project into an expression of Nelson’s shared values through the dedication of volunteers, stakeholders, local woodworkers and suppliers, as well as materials donated in kind.

Fast + Epp’s scope within this project was for the wood canopy at the entry of the pier, engineered for aesthetic expression and durability to provide sheltered space for the public and act as a venue for outdoor events.

The canopy spans both land and water, with one half anchored on the bank and the other supported by piles in the lake. Inclined steel moment frames support steel outriggers that extend in both directions, opening the canopy toward the town and the lake. The steel frame was then clad in cedar elements to give the canopy its final look. Cedar slats, carefully spaced for lightness and airflow, clad the frame, requiring precise craftsmanship as each piece was custom cut and fitted. Integrated lighting adds a warm evening glow, enhancing its visual appeal.

Further out, the pier transitions into a swimming area framed by floating docks, offering access to the lake for paddlers and boaters and providing space for summer recreation. At its end, a climate-controlled glass pavilion, structurally integrated with the pier, now houses the restored Ladybird. This final element connects past and present, showcasing Nelson’s rich heritage.