DESIGNING NEW YORK’S FIRST PUBLIC PLAZA

Our work to design the first plaza as part of the New York City Department of Transportation's Plaza Program envisioned public space where none had considered it. 

Working with local stakeholders, our design studio FANTÁSTICA transformed a small triangular-shaped parking island in the shadow of the Manhattan Bridge into a tiny oasis for respite in the heart of DUMBO's historical warehouse district. 

Our partnership with the DUMBO Improvement District complemented the design by incorporating public art and programming to create a true community plaza. These critical placemaking interventions and a rezoning in 2005, coupled with a historic preservation designation in some areas and an influx of private capital, has led now to DUMBO serving as a home to major companies, boutique shops, new residences, and a completely renovated and activated waterfront.