Urban revitalization is by far the most interesting facet of architecture (in my view). It’s a combination of design and sociology and it’s blatantly obvious when it works – and when it doesn’t. Thankfully, Brooklyn’s Domino Park (North of the Williamsburg bridge) doesn’t disappoint.
This area on the edge of the river was once a thriving sugar factory – Willy Wonka eat your heart out! But, in 2004, the sugar factory closed its doors and the factory deteriorated, as is expected of a vacant building.
However rather than knock it down the designers redeveloped the site (to create Brooklyn’s answer to the Highline). The sugar factory is now a beautiful public waterfront area that pays homage to its former self. Remnants of the old factory create a visual landscape of machinery and plants. Sugar vats and drills become sculptures. Steel and cranes become an elevated walkway. These contrasts serve to blend the past and future seamlessly.
The new design includes a lovely decked seating area made of reclaimed timber to kick back and admire the east river and Williamsburg bridge. There’s a fountain, playground, volleyball court, bowling area and of course there’s a dog park for the privileged pets of Williamsburg.
You get the feeling that the design is inclusive and representative of a place and time – which is important. The plants add colour and texture and the ‘steam bridge’ which sporadically sprays a cloud of mist throughout the day – is a lot of fun for kids and adults alike.
As a local, this is a place that’s a vision of how the whole stretch of the waterside from Greenpoint to Dumbo could be. Green, useable space. Imagine that. A girl can only dream at this stage, but (call me a prophet) in 25 years I think this vision will come true.
Pave & Pave Creative 