by: Jessica Sheridan Assoc. AIA LEED AP
Having not visited the High Line since last June, I had preconceived notions about the experience of walking Section 2. I expected it to be more of the same as Section 1 with some variations, but ultimately just an extension of the first nine blocks. However, after traversing the path several times at different times of day, Section 2 proved to be a new and different experience.
As I began my journey at the southern end of the High Line, Section 1 now has a dramatically different feel from last year. Whereas last year the young growth revealed the gravel below, now the maturing plants have filled in creating a field of tall grasses and vibrantly colored flowers. The lush and floral garden is a welcome contrast to the construction sites on the ground.
As I moved past the familiar path into Section 2, I came across a narrow lawn (unfortunately is not open to the public yet) at the base of Neil M. Denari Architects’ HL23. The building’s warped metal panels complement the plan of the High Line and mimic the plantings in a harmonizing way. Then, I entered a couple of blocks of a restricting, narrow corridor. Strolling at a snail’s pace through tall grasses, trees, and buildings, stuck behind gossiping teenagers was extremely irritating, to say the least. But it all paid off when the view opened up to reveal a panorama toward the Jacob Javits Center. Emerging at a slightly elevated level amplified the effect, especially at sunset when orange light raked across the plants. For me, this moment was the highlight of the experience.
Although there are a couple of less successful moments throughout the 18-block journey (the framed views of the street do not have the same impact as viewing the water through the curtain wall at Diller Scofidio + Renfro’s ICA in Boston), the experience of walking the full length from Gansevoort Street to 29th Street is not to be missed.