A Public Space That Is There, But Isn't There

New York's public spaces are often hidden from public view. Metropolis Magazine profiles one such space at 55 Water Street.

1 minute read

November 13, 2002, 5:00 AM PST

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"A good example of a public plaza that is there, but isn't there, is 55 Water Street. Designed by Emery Roth & Sons and opened in 1972, the two-level plaza is wedged between a 56-story tower and a 15-story annex. It is almost an acre, but its 30 feet above street level and accessible only by an inconspicuous escalator. The space is largely ignored. How do you announce an acre of open space that hovers above the heads of office workers, tourists, and residents?" The story includes many excellent photographs and renderings.

Thanks to ArchNewsNow.com

Tuesday, November 12, 2002 in MetropolisMag.com

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