The picturesque waterfront of New Haven, CT is now graced by the emergence of the stunning Canal Dock Boathouse. This ambitious project, backed by federal, state, and community funding, aims to draw residents back to the New Haven Harbor. Designed to offer education, rowing, and small craft sailing opportunities, this facility is a beacon for a new generation of mariners.

Replacing the historic George Adee Boathouse, which stood proudly since 1911 and housed Yale University’s crew team, the new Canal Dock Boathouse preserves the city’s rich maritime legacy. The innovative design seamlessly blends various high-performance wood sidings and metal cladding materials. One standout feature is the application of Ipe hardwood siding in a rain screen system, providing not only natural beauty but also a facade built to endure the test of time.

Engineering Marvels and Expertise

Langan Environmental, renowned for their expertise in waterfront engineering and marine projects, played a pivotal role in the design. They meticulously crafted the foundation, a 48,000 square foot platform, and undertook shoreline reconstruction, ensuring the structure can withstand the harshest climates and conditions.

Adaptive Design for Resilience

Gregg Weis & Gardner Architects, responsible for the boathouse design, incorporated forward-thinking elements. The first-floor walls, ingeniously designed to be removable during coastal flooding or powerful storms, can be swiftly re-installed when the weather calms. In this section, Ipe hardwood slats not only provide an aesthetically pleasing look but also showcase remarkable durability and strength.

Enduring Beauty with Ipe Hardwood Siding

Ipe hardwood siding graces numerous exterior facades of the boathouse, offering a timeless and natural appearance. Utilizing the Climate-Shield rain screen system, the siding is securely fastened, ensuring enduring beauty. This system, featuring marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel components, is engineered to withstand the elements, guaranteeing longevity even in challenging weather conditions.