Architecture students build structure used for tide observation

Since the beginning of May, architecture students from Dalhousie University have been working away at a structure in Cheverie, Nova Scotia designed to accommodate a camera obscura which will make a projection of the tide moving the water in and out of the Bay of Fundy. The hope is that the camera will capture a reflection of what's outside and project an image depicting the highs and lows of the tide. The arch-shaped brick building is referred to as "the egg" because of its series of arches covered with three layers of thin interlocking bricks. This project is part of the School of Architecture's "Coastal Studio" class.

Key Points:

The shelter for the camera obscura is just a part of what’s planned for the site. An undersized culvert running under Highway 215 and linking Cheverie Creek to the Bay of Fundy had severely degraded the marsh. Since its replacement in 2003, members of the Cheverie Crossway Salt Marsh Society has been working diligently to restore the health of the salt marsh and encourage people to enjoy the area.
As well as the structure constructed by Dal students, there are plans for an elevated look-off, interpretative panels to explain the tidal flow, salt marsh ecosystem and animal and plant life, and an interpretative centre that will act as a community focus.
Seven Dalhousie students, alongside Professor Ted Cavanagh, have been working on site. The unique structure is located at the start of a trail, which meanders through the woods and alongside Cheverie Creek and the salt water marsh. It’s situated with an expansive view of the Upper Bay of Fundy; Cape Blomidon and Cape Split are two of the soft blue hills seen in the distance across the water.
The locals of Cheverie have embraced the students, who’ve been staying at a bed-and-breakfast in nearby Summerville. They’ve been checking in on their progress and making sure they’re well fed and hydrated.

Pull Quotes:

“The idea is that there will be a periscope which will capture a reflection of what’s outside and project an image against markers will show the highs and lows of the tide. It’s something nice for the community to have and be proud of.” -Ryan Pendleton, a masters of architecture student at Dalhousie University from Kelowna, B.C.
“Getting hands on experience, learning about project management and building something is really helpful to my future as an architect. It makes me understand what the mason is thinking and that understanding will make me a better designer.”- Cat Wong, architecture student at Dalhousie University originally from Vancouver.
“It’s so great to be outside. And Cheverie is such a great discovery. It’s so nice being here.” -Veronique Arseneau, architecture student at Dalhousie University originally from from Petit-Rocher, N.B.
“They’re a good bunch. We dreamt of having something that would be world class and this fits the bill.” -Bill Garber, Cheverie resident