The East Village was once celebrated for its rich cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene. However, escalating rents and the impact of pandemics have forced many artists and restaurants to relocate or shut down. Most business activities are now concentrated on the west side of Tompkins Square Park, leaving the east side dotted with vacant storefronts.
In my proposal, I aim to rejuvenate local businesses and art production by drawing community members through a variety of events and activities. Everyone is encouraged to participate and contribute to the community’s cultural development. My program is divided into two distinct types: absorption and distribution. The absorption component focuses on integrating artists, musicians, and local business owners into the community. The distribution component offers free community activity zones, encouraging participation and engagement. By melding these two aspects, we can create a dynamic mix of individuals and balance costs and revenues by charging rent to for-profit businesses.
In terms of design, the two guiding principles are visibility and invisibility. I intend to preserve the building’s facade as much as possible while making certain interior areas more visible to enhance the building’s welcoming nature. The exposed areas will include major program centers, while the more private, “invisible” parts will house supportive programs such as workshops, music practice rooms, and residences.
