Design Development: ATLAS

The current  Bushwick Inlet site is, quite objectively, an ugly place. Urban decay took its toll over the past several decades, leaving the area as an unkempt, fenced off lot. Rusted scrap metal and miscellaneous garbage plague the entire site. The view of the Manhattan skyline is mostly blocked by either high chain-link fences.  The few parts that are not blocked soon will be by an upcoming residential tower. Greenery is rare, appearing only as the odd bush or awkward blade of grass poking through the asphalt.

My project is an upwards peeling of the ground to both combat the boring flatness of the site and bring visitors higher and offer a clearer view of the river and of Manhattan architecture. This ramp-like structure adds much needed verticality to the site and features a green roof with recreational programming, such as a fitness center and a river lookout. This elevated space will cover the fire station and adjacent museum below, boldly mixing the daily lives of the firefighters and the general public. My project will give back to the community what they were promised years ago; a lush, friendly area.

Leave a Reply