31 in 31: #18

This is a series for August 2010 which documents my on-the-ground -- and on-the-webs -- research for my guidebook to contemporary NYC architecture (to be released next year by W. W. Norton). Archives can be found at the bottom of the post and via the 31 in 31 label.



One consequence of the building boom that transpired in New York City in the last decade is a wave of unbuilt residential developments. Many projects tried to one-up their competitors with flashy designs and the accompanying renderings, like the sampling above, all produced by one architecture office, Gilman Architects. Yet one of those buildings is being realized: The Prism (now known as Murano), located on Borden Avenue in Long Island City. The top is kinked and cantilevered, a band of light amplifying the design gesture. Nearing completion, the design might look better than it actually is thanks to its neighbor, a less flashy appearance that is basically the norm in mid-rise residential. Murano's location is odd, overlooking the LIRR tracks and Newtown Creek, but as Hunters Point South slowly unfolds in the coming decade (coinciding with the next boom?) this building will be in a prime spot, nestled into yet another gentrified area close to Manhattan.



Previously:

#1 - Phyto Universe
#2 - One Bryant Park
#3 - Pier 62 Carousel
#4 - Bronx River Art Center
#5 - The Pencil Factory
#6 - Westbeth Artists' Housing
#7 - 23 Beekman Place
#8 - Metal Shutter Houses
#9 - Bronx Box
#10 - American Academy of Arts and Letters
#11 - FDR Four Freedoms Park
#12 - One Madison Park
#13 - Pio Pio Restaurant
#14 - Queens West (Stage II)
#15 - 785 Eighth Avenue
#16 - Big Bambú
#17 - Event Horizon