Pioneer Works Observatory
In 2021, PRO received an invitation to participate in a competition for the design of a new observatory atop Pioneer Works, a non-profit organization located in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Pioneer Works serves as a creative hub, offering artists, creators, and thinkers from diverse cultural and scientific backgrounds a space and platform to enhance and explore their artistic and intellectual endeavors.
The organization occupies 159 Pioneer Street, a three-story brick and heavy-timber structure that spans from Pioneer Street to King Street. Originally constructed in 1881 as the Pioneer Iron Works, this building served as a manufacturer of railroad tracks and large-scale machinery, remaining operational through World War II.
Over time, it has become a local landmark, lending its name to Pioneer Street. For the new project, a levitating terrace will be added above the existing building, providing a platform for the observatory. This innovative intervention creates a fresh space for Pioneer Works to expand its science program while harmonizing with the historic masonry structure below. A new stair tower connects the new terrace with the garden below and the second floor of the existing building, expanding the building's circulation for outdoor programming. Peterson Rich Office will oversee the architectural transformation, updating the building’s purpose from manufacturing to assembly. The new roof terrace will serve as both an observatory and an event space.
In 2021, PRO received an invitation to participate in a competition for the design of a new observatory atop Pioneer Works, a non-profit organization located in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Pioneer Works serves as a creative hub, offering artists, creators, and thinkers from diverse cultural and scientific backgrounds a space and platform to enhance and explore their artistic and intellectual endeavors.
Over time, it has become a local landmark, lending its name to Pioneer Street. For the new project, a levitating terrace will be added above the existing building, providing a platform for the observatory. This innovative intervention creates a fresh space for Pioneer Works to expand its science program while harmonizing with the historic masonry structure below. A new stair tower connects the new terrace with the garden below and the second floor of the existing building, expanding the building's circulation for outdoor programming. Peterson Rich Office will oversee the architectural transformation, updating the building’s purpose from manufacturing to assembly. The new roof terrace will serve as both an observatory and an event space.
Constructed in 1881, the former iron foundry poses various structural challenges. These intricacies stem from the building techniques characteristic of that era and the soil quality near the river, which offers an exciting opportunity for innovative support solutions as we envision the addition of a new terrace and observatory atop the existing structure
Constructed in 1881, the former iron foundry poses various structural challenges. These intricacies stem from the building techniques characteristic of that era and the soil quality near the river, which offers an exciting opportunity for innovative support solutions as we envision the addition of a new terrace and observatory atop the existing structure
Historically, astronomical observatories have transitioned from being cultural and social gathering spaces to centers of scientific research. This project seeks to design a multi-functional observatory that bridges this historical evolution, uniting diverse functions within a single dynamic and engaging space. By situating the observatory on a waterfront rooftop, the project establishes a connection between architectural geometries and the celestial patterns of the sky and landscape
Historically, astronomical observatories have transitioned from being cultural and social gathering spaces to centers of scientific research. This project seeks to design a multi-functional observatory that bridges this historical evolution, uniting diverse functions within a single dynamic and engaging space. By situating the observatory on a waterfront rooftop, the project establishes a connection between architectural geometries and the celestial patterns of the sky and landscape
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Miriam Peterson
Nathan Rich
Emily Kirwan
Peik Shelton
Martin Carrillo Bueno
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