Marine architects design structures for coastal protection through a number of steps, including:
1. Site assessment: They assess the site and identify the environmental factors, such as wave height, tidal range, water depth, and soil conditions.
2. Determine the need: They determine the need for coastal protection and identify the areas that require protection from erosion, sea level rise, and other threats.
3. Conceptual design: They develop conceptual designs for the structures that will provide the necessary coastal protection. This involves selecting the appropriate type of structure which may include seawalls, breakwaters, groynes, etc. depending on the site conditions.
4. Detailed design: They develop detailed designs for the chosen structure, accounting for the specific site conditions, local regulations, and materials to be used.
5. Construction: Marine architects oversee the construction of the structure and ensure that it is built according to the design specifications and regulations.
6. Maintenance: They also design maintenance plans to ensure that the structure remains effective in providing coastal protection.
Throughout the design process, marine architects work closely with environmental scientists and coastal engineers to ensure that the structures are designed to minimize the negative impact on the environment while providing the necessary coastal protection.
Publication date: