Art Box

Competition Brief:
HB:BX is an open international ideas competition to design an arts center that culturally reinforces the physical connection between the Manhattan and Bronx Highbridge communities of New York City. This competition is meant to draw awareness to the current efforts to restore and reopen the bridge. Thus, ENYA challenges emerging architects and designers to explore how disused historic structures can be reprogrammed into vibrant urban centers. Competition entrants are also challenged to rethink the relationship between infrastructure (aqueduct, railway, highway) and it's urban context. These architectural issues, universally relevant to any growing city, take on a more site-specific nature when considering the historic importance of the High Bridge and the topographic challenge posed by the steep riverbanks of the Harlem River.

Design Intent:
ArtBox was conceived as a venue within which visitors would be able to engage art while, at the same time, experience the High Bridge from new vantage points. Our goal was to frame the existing masonry structure to create new architectural space within our proposed addition, allowing the visitor to navigate within and around the bridge structure in previously unavailable ways. The existing structure would provide the backdrop for art work and community gatherings, as well as an interactive explanation of the origin and historical significance of the High Bridge.