ResilienCity Park Pavilion

To strengthen Hoboken, New Jersey’s defenses against coastal flooding, the city invested in comprehensive resiliency infrastructure, including the newly completed ResilienCity Park. Built on a former brownfield in a post-industrial neighborhood, the park features below-grade stormwater detention tanks capable of capturing one million gallons of rainwater, while bioswales and softscape absorb an additional 750,000 gallons above ground. 

Anchoring the park—now Hoboken’s largest public outdoor space—is a pavilion designed by nARCHITECTS. Situated at the park’s highest point, it offers panoramic views and fosters an intimate urban dialogue between the park and the public. The oversized canopy shelters two granite-clad volumes below, housing a flexible community room and café, creating a welcoming portal into the park. 

Pathways connect recreational, cultural, and landscaped areas, extending park life into the pavilion. The galvanized steel and perforated stainless steel canopy provides shade and dappled light, while rainwater collected from the roofs supports irrigation for native plantings. Amenities, including an outdoor movie screen, further activate the space. 

The pavilion demonstrates how thoughtful design can unite environmental resiliency, community engagement, and public enjoyment.