New Domino masterplan in New York by Rafael Viñoly

The project involves the creation of 660 residential units and economic 4 hectares of green space including a public esplanade along the East River in Brooklyn. In Rafael Viñoly was commissioned in 2005 the master plan for a complex, mixed use of 2.8 million square meters, the site of the former Domino Sugar Refinery Complex, a refinery plant and sugar processing factory now rising just north of the Williamsburg Bridge in the Williamsburg neighborhood in Brooklyn and the East River.

The draft Viñoly turns the facility into a modular, mixed-use residential and emphasize open space and public access to the river, while preserving the complex’s refinery, now a reference point, and the famous sign “Domino Sugar “which stands 12 meters high, completed the design masterplan.Rafael Vinoly said: “The New Domino’s master plan integrates the waterfront park in the urban realm, welcoming residents and not by extending the pedestrian roads of Williamsburg. Four residential break type standard plate elements of different heights and slender proportions, creating exceptional views over the city. ”

Under the masterplan, the complex refinery is maintained and adapted to new uses for residential, commercial and cultural. New residential buildings, built in stages, stand next to the historic complex of refineries to accommodate the proposed 2,200 apartments, 30 percent of which are housing units for low-income families. The location of these new residences on the site open “view corridors and pedestrian access between the communities of Brooklyn and the waterfront. For the first time in more than 150 years, the site will give residents of the Williamsburg access to the open spaces of the waterfront and sweeping views of Manhattan, Williamsburg, Brooklyn Bridge and up past the port of New York.

A modular design allows for a variety of apartment complexes, similar plant, but extruded in different heights, kept low adjacent to the surrounding neighborhood, which increase gradually up to the spectacular buildings near the waterfront – two 30-storey and two 40 stories – that offer breathtaking views of Manhattan and Brooklyn. The “green roofs” are supporting not only residences but also give environmental benefits, such as controlled stormwater runoff and reduce the Urban Heat Island Effect.

Rafael Viñoly Architects developed the master plan of the project and concept design for all new buildings on the site. Beyer Blinder Belle Architects & Planner designed the architectural concept for the refinery and Quennell Rothschild and Partners handled the landscaping project.