Architectural Cases

In an ambitious move to address New York City's burgeoning housing crisis, Powerhouse Company has put forth an innovative proposal for Gansevoort Square. This groundbreaking project seeks to redefine urban living by integrating affordable and market-rate housing within a single, towering structure. The design, which includes 1,000 rental homes split equally between affordable and market-rate units, stands as a testament to equitable urban development in one of Manhattan's most exclusive neighborhoods. Beyond residential units, the plan also incorporates new retail spaces and facilitates the expansion of cultural landmarks like the Whitney Museum of American Art and the High Line, aiming to create a vibrant, inclusive community.

Equitable Skyscraper Design for Gansevoort Square: A Detailed Overview

In January 2025, New York City officials, including the Mayor and the NYC Economic Development Corporation, initiated a call for proposals to redevelop the expansive 66,000-square-foot Gansevoort Square site. Located in the heart of Manhattan's Meatpacking District, this area, nestled between Washington Street and 10th Avenue, is set for a significant transformation. The initial vision called for a mixed-income development, targeting up to 600 residential units with a minimum of 50% designated as permanently affordable, alongside ground-floor commercial spaces. Powerhouse Company's response not only met but exceeded these requirements, proposing a striking supertall skyscraper. This architectural marvel would house 1,000 rental units, evenly split between affordable and market-rate homes, distributed seamlessly throughout the building's impressive height. The design emphasizes an all-electric, low-carbon approach, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability and long-term efficiency. Each floor plate is designed to accommodate twelve homes, maintaining a consistent rhythm that is subtly varied by facade depth and proportion, adding visual interest to the rising structure. A notable feature is the two-story Sky Garden on the 53rd floor, offering residents expansive views, abundant natural light, and shared community spaces, bringing nature into the vertical urban landscape. This project, dubbed 'Supertall for All,' was developed in collaboration with local architecture firm SO–IL, underscoring a commitment to local expertise and community integration.

The Powerhouse Company's initiative at Gansevoort Square offers a compelling blueprint for future urban development. It boldly confronts the challenge of housing affordability by demonstrating that luxury and accessibility can coexist within the same architectural vision. This project serves as a powerful reminder that innovative design, coupled with a commitment to social equity, can transform urban landscapes, making cities more inclusive and sustainable for all residents. It inspires us to envision a future where high-rise living is not exclusive but a shared opportunity, fostering diverse communities and enriching the urban fabric.

X House, conceived by Cote Architects in 2025, represents a tranquil residential haven nestled within the vibrant urban sprawl of Vy Da Ward in Hue City, Vietnam. This 300 square meter dwelling was specifically crafted to provide a calm and balanced environment for a family of four, emphasizing spatial tranquility, minimalist aesthetics, cost-effectiveness, and enduring sustainability. Its design serves as an architectural escape, offering a peaceful interlude from the city's energetic pace through carefully considered elements of light, space, and a measured selection of materials.

The architectural vision behind X House was to create a sanctuary that stands in subtle contrast to its dynamic surroundings, which are characterized by an array of hotels, restaurants, event venues, and sports facilities. Rather than competing with the urban pulse, the residence embraces a philosophy of quietude and introspection. Every design decision, from the orientation of windows to the choice of interior finishes, contributes to an atmosphere of calm that pervades the living spaces, allowing residents to find respite from the external hustle and bustle.

One of the core principles guiding the development of X House was the integration of natural light and thoughtful spatial configurations. The architects meticulously planned the layout to maximize daylight penetration and airflow, creating bright, airy interiors that feel connected to the outside yet offer privacy and seclusion. This careful balance ensures that each room benefits from optimal illumination, enhancing the sense of well-being and openness within the home.

Furthermore, Cote Architects placed significant importance on selecting materials that not only align with the minimalist aesthetic but also promote long-term sustainability and economic efficiency. The choice of concrete, for instance, serves both a structural and aesthetic purpose, contributing to the building's robust character while offering a clean, contemporary look. The inclusion of manufacturers like Eurotile, INAX, and Kenwin underscores a commitment to quality and durability, ensuring the home's longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.

Led by Hoang Viet Hung, the design team ensured that the project was not merely a structure but a living environment tailored to the specific needs of the family. The house's serene ambiance, achieved through its considered design and material palette, transforms it into a personal retreat. This approach demonstrates how architectural design can skillfully blend into a busy urban context while offering a deeply personal and peaceful living experience for its inhabitants.

Ultimately, X House stands as a testament to the power of deliberate design in fostering a harmonious domestic life amidst an urban backdrop. Its focus on quiet spaces, efficient design, and sustainable choices creates a home that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior, providing a timeless haven for its residents in Hue City.