East 126

Project Details

Project Description

FROM THE ARCHITECTS:

Bridging Harlem’s active 125th Street corridor and the quieter setting of 126th Street, East 126 will contribute a mix of private and public space to the neighborhood. Commercial program is offered at the street level and first floor of the existing Gotham Plaza commercial building to enliven 126th street. To further encourage community engagement, a connection between the two city streets have been provided through a retail space and two-storey gallery in this new building.

East 126’s unique T-shaped footprint offers a diverse set of unit sizes and layout organizations. This third wing of the building appears to hover over the existing commercial building from 125th Street, creating a dynamic component to the evolving Harlem streetscape. Along 126th Street the building’s facade gently slopes inwards as it rises upwards, deviating from the hard, linear street edge in an elegant gesture. While this architectural move keeps the building form contained within the allowable zoning envelope, it also enables the residential street to have more direct sunlight. The use of an interlocking checkerboard pattern facade panel system allows for floor-to-ceiling windows in each unit, creating exciting views of the city for the tenants. The building draws its form from context, shaping itself to its surroundings, and offering a new energy to the already exciting neighborhood.

The interior collective program for residents incorporates a fitness center, lounge, and workspace which overlooks the two-storey gallery space. Above the existing commercial building, apartments are offered expansive southern views over Harlem towards Central Park and the East River. Rooftop amenities include feature pools and decks surrounded by a shaped landscape features provide different social spaces for various types of social activities gatherings.