2024 Galleries
The Spark Gallery pages are one of our most popular design destinations, with thousands of visitors each year. Check out some of the latest Spark entries, in the galleries below.
Galleries // 2024 Spark:Fall/Winter Student // Harlemroot center
Harlemroot center
Winner - Silver
Competition: Spark:Fall/Winter Student
Designer: Leon Orlov
Design Type: Spaces: architecture, interiors, landscape
Company / Organization / School: LUNA Art and Technology
The project highlights Manhattan’s African American heritage, reviving narrative of Seneca Village within Central Park to create a cultural landmark celebrating Harlem’s heritage. The northern Central Park area is underdeveloped despite a similar population to nearby neighborhoods, lacking entertainment besides natural recreation. There is demographic inequity in urban development, As Lower Manhattan develops, African-Americans in Upper Manhattan face gentrification and social inequality. To boost activity in the underdeveloped park axis and to ease diverse inequity in development, the project proposes a new facility to enhance circulation and showcase Harlem's culture, focusing on an African-American legacy center. The “Solid Polyphony” concept symbolizes urban harmony through diverse elements, inspired by Duke Ellington Circle and Harlem's vibrancy. Interior materials and lighting embody their cultural rituals, evoking tranquility and joy. The project also includes sustainable archives and exhibitions to preserve and advance African American history, culture, and tradition.
