The elements of landscape that Thomas Balsley Associates has designed for 40 Mercer is integral to the dynamic and successful environment created for the modern Manhattan lifestyle, in the trendy SoHo district. A private park at the ground floor connects the bustling activity of Broadway with the sophisticated serenity of the galleries and shops that line Mercer Street. Both architecture and seasonal interests are articulated with a row of red maples that give rhythm to the park, and vibrant hues of red color in autumn.
The landmarked neighborhood of SoHo has a consistent yet varied language of architecture. The terrace for 40 Mercer seizes this opportunity with a setback terrace on the sixth floor with a two-tiered design. The upper tier affords private outdoor rooms that are framed by plantings that extend the interior spaces. The lower tier of the terrace is accessible to all of the residents, with planting providing an even greater variety of mix for outdoor space. The sequence of arriving throughout the park, and experiencing the terrace rooms, occurs within the evocative architecture of Jean Nouvel with a design language that is respectful of the past and embraces the sensibilities of the 21st Century.
One Uptown
Bringing a singular landscape design expression to a site featuring two buildings designed by different architects, the SWA/Balsley team worked to seamlessly integrate a variety of outdoor spaces to accommodate the mixed-use One Uptown. At the ground level, tree-lined streetscapes and bike lanes lead visitors to a coworking and dining courtyard along Burnet Ro...
Martha Stewart Summer Residence
When first approached, the property looked as if very little had changed in eighty years. Everything about it reflected an interest in summer breezes and beaches rather than labor-intensive gardening. In dramatic contrast, the new owner’s primary interest was in entertaining within a landscaped environment.
The final plan reconciles competing space requ...
Gotham West
Gotham West is a residential development west of Times Square that nearly encompasses a full city block. Two mid-rise buildings and a market-rate tower form to create a signature courtyard that is accessed from the tower’s lobby. A sculptural Japanese maple, floating within a reflecting pool, is centered with the lobby entrance, and serves as a focal feature. ...
SKY Tower
SKY is a luxurious 71-story residential tower whose new at-grade and rooftop landscapes figure prominently at the western extremities of this world-famous street.
SWA/Balsley’s designs for the project merge a crisp, contemporary geometry with a refined material sensibility. The residences’ motor court stands at the front door of an otherwise transparen...