Building Projects
When we think of skyscrapers, we usually think of gravity-defying, beautiful, high-rise buildings that are usually occupied by offices of wealthy companies. However, I wanted to look at a different end of the spectrum: the nyc housing projects, which are usually associated with the opposite, accommodating low income families. Most of the housing developments were built from 1946-65 in a “tower-in-the park” modernist style. The developments grew, mostly due to Robert Moses (ones of nyc’s greatest urban planner and builder), in his plan to clear old tenements and modernize nyc (wikipedia).
I thought it would be interesting to compare the two extremes. The saying: “the sky is the limit” supports the new york narrative. Dreams, careers and even physical buildings can reach unimaginable heights but at the same time, NYC is home to thousands of families facing financial problems and joblessness. This is the reality and irony of NYC. These housing developments cater to those in need, and we still refer to them as “the projects.” This is to say, not all buildings are symbolic of success and prosperity, although the nyc skyline- of skyscrapers, does.
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