Lighting Design: L'Observatoire International / Herve Descottes,
Jason Neches Project Manager & Senior Lighting Designer
Landscape Architect: James Corner Field Operations
Architect: Diller Scofidio + Renfro
Planting Design (Horticulturist): Piet Oudolf
Owner: Friends of the High Line with NY City Department of Parks and Recreation
Size: 1.5 mile elevated park (located on decommissioned / repurposed rail line)
The High Line was originally constructed during the Great Depression to shuttle freight to factories and food processing plants along Manhattan's west side.
Rendered obsolete by the late 1970's, the High Line fell into disrepair and was slated for demolition in the late 1990's until two local, grass-roots activists advocated for the line's preservation and reuse as a public open space and greenway.
As public interest grew, a competition was held to generate ideas and further support. The winning proposal advocated for an antithetical approach to New York City life - slow, quiet, primitive, wild.
The lighting scheme by L'Observatoire International focuses on the unique perspective achieved when walking 30' above ground, illuminating the pathway and planting while preserving unencumbered views of the surrounding city.
All light sources are strategically located below eye level to prevent glare or user discomfort that might detract from the nightscape.
Open House New York
night walking tour of High Line by Jason Neches
Photo Credits: Iwan Baan, Studio Dubuisson, Jason Neches
Renderings: L'Observatoire International, Diller Scofidio + Renfro
Awards: ASLA Honor Award, 2013
IESNY Lumen Award of Merit, 2012
IALD Special Citation, 2012
IES Illumination Award of Merit, 2010
NY Landmarks Conservancy, Lucy G. Moses Preservation Award, 2010
Municipal Art Society of NY, Masterworks Award, 2010
Architizer A+ Award, 2014