The coastal zone is a complex and highly sensitive environment that is in a constant state of change. Wave, current and tidal conditions can vary widely along short stretches of coastline, so careful parameters have to be set for the design of coastal structures such as breakwaters, groynes, sea walls and revetments. These can have a profound impact on the physical balance by affecting the transport of sediment and by modifying littoral drift characteristics.

Buro Happold’s technical expertise and knowledge of marine processes means we can design structures that will improve coastal protection and develop beaches for tourism. In addition to traditional ‘hard’ structures we also employ ‘soft’ engineering techniques such as beach feeding (bringing sand ashore from deeper deposits) and managed realignment (moving back the line of defence). Sometimes this low-intervention approach is more effective for tackling beach erosion and inshore flooding.

The task of designing, building and managing coastal defences in a cost-effective and sustainable manner is a complex one requiring a range of specialist services, including masterplanning, wave and tidal analysis, coastline management planning, flood and environmental impact assessment and conservation advice. In addition to marine structures, our projects range from waterfront developments, harbours and marinas to the regeneration of docks, wharfs and riverside locations.

Coastal and estuarine areas have become an environmental and administrative battleground, with the need to protect natural resources often conflicting with new commercial development or recreational activities. Embracing environmental best practice, our design strategies aim to mitigate or overcome potential problems in these diverse ecosystems. Using physical and computational modelling we assess the likely impact on wildlife and water quality as well as the risk of pollution from marine outfalls.