This building, located at 656 W 125th St, New York, addresses the deep political divisiveness that has gripped America in recent years.
The massive staircase cutting through its center represents the fracture within society, visibly disrupting the continuity of the structure. This break isn’t just a formal choice but a reflection of how conflict has torn apart the social and political fabric. Yet, the building goes beyond reflecting division; it challenges architecture to play a role in bridging these gaps.
The jazz auditorium within serves as a counterbalance to the disruption, symbolizing a space where cultural exchange and collective expression thrive. Jazz, born from diversity and struggle, offers a unifying force in a divided landscape. The building’s raw materials—concrete, steel, and glass—do not hide the division, but expose it, creating a stark, unembellished space that invites engagement.
By confronting the cracks in society, this design suggests that architecture can provoke reflection and even foster connections amidst a fragmented world.
Status: Unbuilt
Location: 656 W 125th St, New York, NY 10027
My Role: Lead Designer