chroma

A prominent developer requested alternative concepts for the development of a residential neighborhood located in Long Island City on a former Pepsi Cola manufacturing site fronting New York's East River. The design solution required 1.2 M sf of residential space with parking and a cultural amenity located adjacent to New York State’s new East River Park. The design of the 6-acre site was composed of 3 distinct building types chosen to create different styles of habitation and appeal to a diverse population including new urbanites. The proposed building types included; a high-rise (44 floors), courtyard-loft (7-floors) and midrise-duplex (20-floors) Smaller streets with loft-style buildings create the core pedestrian neighborhood center with retail, commerce and civic amenities. Taller structures mark and define the north and south site boundaries while providing unobstructed sunrise and sunset views in addition to supplying required below grade parking. The landmarked Pepsi Cola sign now prominently featured at the south end of the park, becomes a sculptural reminder of the sites industrial past. At the north-west corner of the park, a glass-domed amphitheater completes the plan by providing a unique performance venue with stellar views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.