Photo credit: www.gardenista.com
Introducing New York’s First All-Electric Skyscraper
The recently inaugurated 505 State Street is setting a new benchmark for urban architecture as it opens its initial phase. This 44-story building stands out as New York’s inaugural all-electric skyscraper, designed without reliance on fossil fuels. Described by photographer Valery Rizzo as “the Flatiron of Brooklyn,” the project promises further enhancements in the coming phases, which will include two public schools adhering to Passive House principles. Currently, the site is home to various offices and retail spaces.
At the heart of this innovative building is the Grow Room, envisioned as a serene, tech-free sanctuary for residents, a concept brought to life by Alloy Development in collaboration with Studio Prospect and Abby Lee of Outlands Botanics.
During our exploration of the Grow Room, Abby Lee shared insights into its unique design and purpose.
The Design and Purpose of the Grow Room
The Grow Room serves not as a workspace but as a peaceful retreat for residents, where many engage in meditation, reading, drawing, and journaling. “It’s a place to decompress after workouts,” Abby explains, noting the presence of a resident who often walks her cat there. The space has quickly become a popular communal area among residents, fostering a sense of curiosity and excitement.
Nature-Inspired Plant Selection
Enhancing the ambiance, the Grow Room features a variety of plants such as Sarracenia (trumpet pitchers), dwarf papyrus, and teacup taro. Notably, the selection includes larger trees like Calliandra haematocephala (powderpuff trees) and others adapted for the indoor environment. “The choice of plants reflects my favorite landscapes, from Northern California to Chilean Patagonia,” Abby shares, highlighting the extensive research that went into selecting species suited for indoor growth.
Abby collaborated with Treeworld Wholesale, known for offering robust trees capable of thriving inside. Visits to numerous greenhouses and conservatories also influenced her selections.
Experimental Gardening
With a spirit of experimentation, Abby sought out unusual plants, focusing on their ability to thrive in the Grow Room’s environment. “I emphasized plants that would flourish rather than those requiring minimal upkeep,” she states, recognizing Alloy’s commitment to regular maintenance. The soil chosen for the space, sourced from Organic Mechanics, is peat-free, aligning with sustainable practices.
A Caring Approach to Plant Maintenance
The Grow Room reflects a commitment to ongoing care, with a dedicated maintenance routine involving hand watering and health assessments three times weekly. This approach ensures that the plant life remains vibrant and healthy, countering the common “set it and forget it” attitude often taken in similar projects.
Community and Learning
The Grow Room also includes a curated collection of books aimed at promoting plant knowledge among residents. “The selection came from the team involved in designing the space, as we all share a passion for plants,” Abby notes. The intention is to encourage borrowing and exchanging literature, fostering a communal learning atmosphere.
Functional Design Features
A custom-built potting table, complete with a sink, adds practicality to the Grow Room. Abby emphasizes that functionality was central to its design, ensuring easy access to tools for plant care and experimentation.
As the first phase of 505 State Street unfolds, it not only introduces an innovative living space but also creates a community-oriented environment where nature and sustainability take center stage.
Source
www.gardenista.com