Clear Defaults
Architect - DILLER SCOFIDIO + RENFRO
LD - L'Observatoire International
Rep - SLS
Location - NYC NY
The High Line was saved from demolition and opened in 2009. Elevated above the streets of Manhattan, The High Line is a historical site with decades of history as a railroad and now is an enjoyable location for visitors and locals to experience historic architecture in a new light. The design incorporates the unique characteristics of the postindustrial ruin, such as the biodiversity that emerged after it fell into disuse, into specific micro-climates along the railway, creating diverse spaces that include sunny, shady, wet, dry, windy, and sheltered areas. The park will pay homage to the melancholic and unruly beauty of the site while interpreting its history and legacy.
The lighting strategy for the High Line features a consistent low-level plane of light along the perimeter, giving the illusion of the High Line floating above the city below. The use of our VLine's Gen3 for the perimeter of the structure fully supported the philosophy of lighting that provides a sense of intimacy, and connection, without disrupting pedestrians on the lower level. A set of custom adjustable brackets were developed to ensure that glare, and installation variables were properly addressed in order to maintain the integrity of the design intent, independently of mounting conditions. This soft light will create a unique night-time experience for visitors while also serving as a marker for those viewing from the streets below. All light sources will be kept at or below eye level to avoid glare and obstruction of the night sky and surrounding views. The goal is to make the High Line safe, visible, and unobtrusive at night.
A new view
The design also considered the capitalization on the benches as light sources. This strategy allowed for the incorporation of our Gen3 & Gen4 luminaires beyond the lighting perimeter, therefore, guarantying the proper light levels on the circulation surfaces without the need for lighting above the human eye.