The site is located on Central Park North, a mostly residential corridor that sits on the southern border of Central Harlem. Central Harlem, located in the heart of New York City, is known for its vibrant and diverse demographic and rich cultural heritage. The neighborhood is predominantly African American, with a significant population of African and Caribbean immigrants. Central Harlem is celebrated for its influential role in the Harlem Renaissance, contributing to the development of African American arts, literature, music, and activism, making it a hub for cultural expression and social movements.
Site history
Originally functioning as a branch of the Young Women’s Hebrew Association (YWHA) and a residence for recently immigrated Jewish women seeking support, the building underwent various transformations throughout its history. In 1942, it was purchased by the U.S. Army and briefly served as a center for rest and relaxation for local soldiers during World War II. Subsequently, it housed the experimental New Lincoln School and the North side Center for Child Development, which focused on psychological research.
The site sits in front of the Gate of Exoneration in Central Park which is a significant monument that symbolizes justice and the pursuit of truth. Located near the park’s southeastern corner, the Gate of Exoneration stands as a powerful reminder of the wrongful convictions and the importance of rectifying past injustices. The monument serves as a tribute to those who have been wrongly accused and imprisoned, honoring their resilience and the ongoing efforts to promote a fair and equitable criminal justice system.
The building is designed to the Passive house sustainability standards. We aim to create a highly energy-efficient and comfortable building with minimal energy consumption for heating and cooling. By employing principles such as superior insulation, air-tightness, high-performance windows, and heat recovery ventilation.
