Haven Plaza Resiliency Infrastructure Building

When Hurricane Sandy struck New York City, the site at Haven Plaza flooded, the nearby power plant exploded, and the 371-unit, low-income housing complex was left without power. With the elevators inoperable, residents were trapped in their apartments without heat, electricity, or water. Community volunteers and members of the National Guard delivered rations and supplies until power was restored. This new resiliency infrastructure building was designed to avoid repeating these problems. This two-story, 2,000 square foot building houses three boilers to provide the site steam heat. The complex will be removed from dependence on the City’s costly steam. Flood-resilient plants will surround the base of the building, and three poured concrete fins will lift the structure, giving the building the effect of “floating” above the flood line. These fins also support a glazed front façade that allows passersby to peer in and see the building at work. A green wall will allow for plant growth to extend from the plaza to the new building. The result is an exciting addition to the complex that is honest in its purpose.