Divisions across the United States have widened and deepened over recent years. Such a polarized social and political climate has greatly hindered any efforts to advance climate policies, or facilitate any real change, especially amongst the local population. In order to transform our approach to change — for climate research and policies to have an impact on local and nationwide communities — the Climate School must be fully integrated and woven into the political and social landscape; operating as a center for both research and exchange.

The Climate School seeks to cultivate and maintain a close relationship with its local community. Transparency, communication and exchange will be key. Located at a crossroads in Manhattanville, The Climate School will operate as a bridge, elevating the subway, and connecting the two sites divided by Broadway.

Using the construct of the courtyard as a template for facilitating exchange and communication, the buildings on either side of the new building bridge over Broadway, will take the shape of two courtyards facing the new campus and residential buildings respectively, and generate more public space. The vertical circulation of the public around the elevated subway, through the building, and vice versa, will provide connection and transparency within the local community.