Silvercup West
The design for Silvercup West meets the challenge of delivering a mixed-use development by organising the three main functions of the project – residential, commercial and cultural – into three distinct zones, of which the central zone is the studio facility. The difficulty of constructing towers above large-span studios resulted in the high-rise elements of the development being located along its perimeter. This creates the maximum separation between high-rise residential and commercial buildings. A restaurant and gardens will be located at the studio roof level.
The site is organised into a composition of elements. High-rise residential towers are located on the south side of the site, separated from a new cultural building and commercial tower alongside the Queensboro Bridge by the studio facilities. A roof garden and terrace with catering pavilions are located above the studios.
The height and location of the towers respond to the location, and form a composition of high-rise, structurally articulate forms with the bridge. The site is pivotal around the new esplanade and Queens Plaza Masterplan, a project providing public access to the waterfront from Queens Plaza.
At ground level, restaurants and shops open up on to the adjacent park and new esplanade along the East River frontage. A museum and theatre facility is located on the northern side of the site adjacent to the bridge. This is organised vertically and is accessed by escalators rising to the level of the bridge deck, giving spectacular high-level views across the river.
The housing towers are located to the south of the site to maximise views towards Manhattan, and give good sunlight and daylight to the residential units.
It is the intention of the design to include environmental features such as energy-efficient building, green roofs and water re-use systems.
Public Realm
Amenity for both the general public and studio users is provided by the roof garden and terrace.
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