Our project is guided by a theoretical and political commitment to redefining the relationships among forgotten spaces, memory, and urban development. Recognizing marginalized sites like Hart Island as vital components of the urban landscape, we aim to reframe prevailing attitudes of neglect and erasure. At stake are honoring collective memory, acknowledgment of historical injustices, and the creation of inclusive and equitable spaces within the city. The future of this site will be informed by fundamental values of justice, compassion, and sustainability in urban planning, building upon the history of Hart Island as a burial ground for the marginalized and disenfranchised, while also envisioning its potential as a site of renewal and reconciliation for all New Yorkers.

To address the challenges of environmental degradation and accessibility, our project employs a dual-layered approach to protect Hart Island. An inner protective layer consists of sea walls and a ferry terminal, serving both as a barrier against sea water flooding and as a multifunctional space for exhibitions and memorials. The project safeguards the island while fostering meaningful connections between visitors and its historical and cultural heritage, catalyzing awareness and engagement. Additionally, the provision of shelter within our terminal design responds to the harsh environmental conditions experienced during our site visit.

In parallel, an outer protective layer comprises breakwaters and memorial spaces, strategically positioned to reduce sea wave energy and prevent erosion along the island’s edges. By integrating these protective measures with commemorative elements, we both safeguard the physical integrity of Hart Island and honor its significance as a place of remembrance and reflection. We understand the site as an Impermanent Archive—a dynamic space that collects, organizes, and disseminates shared knowledge and memory, continuously reconfiguring over time. Through actions of reclamation and revitalization, we challenge conventional understandings of forgotten marginalized spaces and assert their agency within the urban fabric, prioritizing inclusivity and resilience.