The renowned architecture firm of SWA/Balsley has shaped outdoor spaces throughout the world, and many right here in New York City. Whether it is a large park or a small plaza, the firm is dedicated to creating spaces for New Yorkers that make urban life more livable. The firm has designed more than 100 outdoor spaces in New York City alone! We’ve whittled the list down to 5 public parks.
1. Hunters Point South
One of the firm’s most recent park projects was the design of Hunters Point South Waterfront Park in Long Island City, a collaboration with Weiss/Manfredi. The first phase of the park opened in 2013 and focused on active recreation areas with amenities like a playground and basketball courts. The second phase of the park, which opened in the summer of 2018, highlights more of the natural aspects of the area and is reflective of the increased awareness of resilience and sustainability that has come to the forefront of waterfront design since Hurricane Sandy. Both phases together comprise eleven acres of waterfront and provide amazing views of the Manhattan skyline. The park pays homage to the site’s former industrial past by incorporating old gantry and railroad tracks into the sustainable and innovative design.
