A public park and performance space called Pier 55 is being created on the lower west side of Manhattan. This project is spearheaded by a recently established non-profit organisation primarily financed by the Diller - von Furstenberg family. In collaboration with the Hudson River Park Trust, they will oversee the construction and operation of the pier. The pier's construction will happen amidst the pile fields of Pier 54 and Pier 56, which will stay intact to sustain a fish habitat.
Barry Diller commissioned Heatherwick Studio to design the $170 million futuristic park on Manhattan's west side. It is set to replace the deteriorated Pier 54 with a lush undulating landscape supported with 300 mushroom columns about 55 metres off the Hudson River shoreline. “Hudson River Park has become a destination for millions of New Yorkers from across all five boroughs,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “The revitalization and transformation of this pier into a vibrant arts and community space will bring new energy and new visitors to our waterfront.”
“New York City’s waterfront provides tremendous opportunities for everything from tourism to outdoor recreation, and Pier55 is the perfect example of how we can tap into that resource to build a more enjoyable city for all,” said Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. “Building this new pier will greatly improve the Hudson River Parkland, and I thank the Diller – von Furstenberg family for their generosity and vision in the pursuit of a better New York.”
The pier will be a place of discovery, where visitors can wander and wonder, finding something new around every corner: places to lounge, eat lunch, or just lie in the grass. The park’s undulating topography – replete with lush lawns and pathways – will offer sweeping views of the Manhattan and northern New Jersey skylines for all park-goers and provide a natural viewing area for the new performance space, which will be designed to immediately serve as one of New York City’s premier venues for music, dance, theatre and public art, along with community events.
Construction of the 2.7-acre pier is expected to commence in 2016.
To witness the harmony of creativity and craftsmanship, don't miss the opportunity to check out Zeitz Museum Of Contemporary Art Africa By Heatherwick Studio.
Project Information
Architect: Heatherwick Studio
Location: Manhattan, New York
Client: Hudson River Park Trust
Area: 10 927 sqm
Status: Construction in 2016
Photographs: Pier 55 Inc, Heatherwick Studio, Luxigon
