Westin Hotel Indoor/Outdoor Pavilion
Large-span coastal pavilion design
2017
Westin Hotel Indoor/Outdoor Pavilion
The Project
Design of a luxury indoor/outdoor pavilion and deck for the Westin Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort. At the time of construction, this project represented the largest combined indoor/outdoor pavilion in the United States. The structure was engineered to allow seamless transition between enclosed and open-air environments through the innovative use of oversized NanaWall door systems, creating a flexible event space adaptable to changing weather and guest needs.
The Challenge
Creating a large, open-span pavilion directly adjacent to the ocean required addressing several structural challenges simultaneously: resisting high wind and hurricane loads, managing potential scour and uplift, and maintaining an elegant architectural aesthetic. The client sought an uninterrupted event space with full-width openings to the ocean, meaning that traditional column spacing and bracing systems were not acceptable. The pavilion needed to balance transparency and openness with resilience and occupant safety. Furthermore, foundation design had to contend with soft coastal soils and storm surge potential while minimizing visual and environmental impact on the resort landscape.
The Solution
We developed a structural system centered around steel moment frames to achieve the required long, unobstructed spans while providing robust lateral resistance to hurricane wind loads. The use of moment frames eliminated the need for diagonal bracing, preserving clear sightlines and maximizing flexibility for event configurations. Oversized NanaWall door systems were integrated into the frame geometry, allowing the pavilion to operate as either a completely open-air venue or a fully enclosed, climate-controlled space. The foundation utilized deep driven piles to achieve adequate bearing capacity and resist uplift forces, while reinforced concrete grade beams and pile caps tied the system together for uniform load distribution. Detailing at the foundation level included scour protection measures to safeguard against erosion during storm events.
The Improvements
The integration of steel moment frames and advanced operable wall systems resulted in a structure both strong and visually open. The pile foundation improved overall stability, mitigated settlement risk, and ensured long-term durability in a harsh coastal environment. Coordinated architectural and structural detailing allowed the large NanaWall assemblies to operate smoothly while maintaining weatherproofing and structural integrity. The final design also incorporated corrosion-resistant materials and protective coatings appropriate for salt-air exposure, ensuring lasting performance.
The Results
The completed Westin Pavilion stands as a striking centerpiece for the Hilton Head resort—an adaptable venue that blends indoor comfort with the natural beauty of the coastline. The pavilion’s open-span steel structure and fully operable wall systems deliver unmatched flexibility, allowing the resort to host large-scale events in both enclosed and open-air formats. The foundation system provides resilience against hurricanes and coastal erosion, ensuring the facility remains both functional and secure through extreme weather events. The design successfully marries engineering precision with architectural sophistication to create a landmark resort amenity.
