Some New Yorkers prefer to look upon Manhattan rather than live within it, but they don't want to sacrifice the conveniences of urban living. The Forge, a 38-story residential tower located on a quiet, tree-lined cul-de-sac in Long Island City, Queens, presents an appealing alternative: high-end units enhanced by a range of amenities and convenient access to public transportation.
A wedge-shaped site and stringent zoning requirements presented many challenges, but we viewed these constraints as opportunities for creativity. We conceived a slender tower with stepped massing—a "julienne" scheme comprising four bars of varying heights that maximize daylight and views toward the East River and Manhattan, all while preserving outdoor zones that have been transformed into amenities including a landscaped courtyard, sculpture garden, lap pool, and movie screening area, as well as an al fresco dining space.
Public amenities also abound on the interior. Residents mingle within the double-height lobby and a communal living room, and there is a plethora of spaces tailored to more specific needs: a fitness center, a business bar, and a playroom for children. Units range from studios to one and two bedrooms, all of which feature Feng shui–certified layouts with oak flooring, quartz countertops, and high-end appliances.
LEED Silver
2018 AIA Brooklyn–Queens Design Award, Award of Excellence, Multi-Family Residential