Commissioned by The City of New York, SHoP is transforming a neglected, inaccessible stretch of land into a renewed area that will draw the city fabric to the East River.
The revitalization of Lower Manhattan is fundamental to sustaining the rich, creative environment that is synonymous with New York, and the East River Waterfront project is an essential link in preserving that history.
The challenge was to recognize and celebrate the area’s unique attributes, and to support the growth of the diverse urban communities along the waterfront by creating a flexible plan for the river’s edge.
Areas of focus are finding new waterfront uses, which include improving the esplanade, providing pavilions under the FDR Drive, and opening piers to the public that will provide a place for recreation and community and maritime activities.
A dramatic indoor/outdoor venue located under an innovative pavilion designed by SHoP Architects, Watermark is on the edge of the new double level Pier 15 adjacent to historic South Street Seaport on New York City’s East River.
The project enhances appreciation of the waterfront through a stylish and sophisticated yet relaxed bar and lounge that provide unmatched views to the New York Harbor and Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg Bridges.
Steel and glass comprise the venue’s structure, and the floor-to-ceiling windows of the pavilion seamlessly define the indoor and outdoor areas. Cherry red bar stools accentuate the bar’s dark reclaimed wood decor, while outside, wooden tables and benches under the pavilion’s red cantilevered, slatted wood canopy accommodate larger groups.
Durability is a hallmark of the materials used in the project’s design. Black glazed handmade tiles, a reclaimed feature wall and bar top, and blackened metal framed back bar cabinets complement a gray epoxy concrete floor.
The light fixture over the bar—a nod to a nautical lantern or beacon—holds bottles and gives the interior a visual anchor. Eight HD-TVs and a state-of-the-art sound system provide ongoing entertainment.
The result is a lively social environment in an open, park-like setting. The first portions of the project, the East River Esplanade South and Pier 15, were completed in 2011.
Location: New York, NY, USA
Architects: SHoP Architects
Area: 3500.0 ft2
Year: 2013
Photographs: Paul Johnson