Davide Catenazzi and Guido Fascioli; Pont Saint Martin and Sanfront, Italy
[Registration #1448481]
The
project of the Roosevelt Island Universal Arts Center isn’t intended
to “stick out”. The intention is to fit in with the texture
and morphology of Roosevelt Island while creating a new urban micro-system
maintaining the balance of vegetation and public space. The object is
to revitalize the existing structure keeping the original character intact
and to develop a series of spaces and functions around it. The façade
of the existing building will be untouched because of the importance
of the architectural element.
Everything was studied for the disabled and for people that have special
needs. With respect for the surrounding nature, cars are parked at a
secure distance. There is no extensive parking area. There is one road
for deliveries and employees and another road for visitors.
The ideas for this project came after seeing the site (Roosevelt Island) and realizing the incredible potential that this site holds. It is only three minutes from Manhattan, on an island with 9,000 people in a suburban environment. Although the view of midtown is not unusual, it’s unforgettable. The contrast between the west side that over looks midtown and the east side that faces the panoramic industrial area of Queens is electrifying and at night the lights of Manhattan are indescribable.