Visions of Space: August 2012

What could a new residential tower in St. George or Stapleton, on Staten Island's North Shore be? With recent changes in zoning regulations and upcoming redevelopment of the former Navy Homeport site, I began thinking about the possible forms for a new tower.

This study for a cantilevered glass tower was generated by rotating rectangles at approximately 45 degrees to the shoreline on a hypothetical rectangular site. The plan concept is to concentrate building core functions - stairs, elevators and mechanical services to the rear in order to maximize views of the waterfront. It is a modern response the the waterfront and a departure from the conventional wisdom that new buildings on Staten Island have to be designed in some neo-Classical style or other.

At a conceptual 14 stories, it would lend a visible element to the Staten Island skyline (yes, there is a Staten Island skyline). This tower would rival the best in Manhattan, with equally spectacular views and easy access to transit, restaurants, galleries and retail that already exist on the North Shore, as well as what will come.