Inspired by the surrounding neighborhood of tenement houses from the early 1800s, the formal language of the three buildings draws from architectural elements already on the site: air shafts, alleys, and courtyards. These elements are updated and developed to introduce light and air into the buildings.
Wood fins decorate the exterior to act as a permeable enclosure and cast interesting shadows throughout the day. The project also draws material inspiration from the red brick on site, replicated in the facade of all three buildings.
The typical household size in the Bronx is 2.76 persons per household, higher than NYC’s average of 2.42. These three buildings are designed to accommodate a range of ages and family sizes, including families with children as well as senior citizens. The buildings also differ in height to maximize daylight in every unit and to create an artificial topography for the rooftop greenspace that complements the slope of the site below.
