The prolific Danish architect Bjarke Ingels adds another project to his firm’s growing portfolio of soon-to-be-built works in New York, with a structure he’s dubbed “The Mantaray.” Its sloping form – one of BIG’s signature moves – lends the triangular structure dual function as both a canopied pavilion and viewing platform.
Perched on steel columns, the 560-square-metre structure rises to 5.3 metres at its northernmost corner and promises what are sure to be brilliant views of the Manhattan skyline.
The stepped platform will provide space for large and small public events (seating nearly 300 for a concert), while the area beneath will provide shade for picnickers, and be outfitted with moveable furniture to accommodate food carts, picnics and performances. A meadow with seasonal grasses and blooms is planned for the surrounding area and will serve as the endpoint for the walking path from Atlantic Avenue.
The $8-million project is part of Michael van Valkenburgh Associates‘ revitalization of the Brooklyn waterfront, a 34-hectare stretch once home to cargo shipping and storage. In September, BIG received unanimous approval from the city’s Public Design Commission to begin construction on its part of the landscape.