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Isis Condominium Rooftop

A sunny, windy roof deck with spectacular views from the top of the 32-story Isis Condominium tower on East 72nd Street in Manhattan.

  1. Isis Inspiration Board

    Elements of inspiration, from the shape of the goddess's headdress, to the tundra-like microclimate so high above the cityscape, materials that both reflect and absorb were considered, within a muted natural palate.

  2. Sun-Shade Analysis

    Winter solstice, 12/21.

  3. Sun-Shade Analysis

    Summer solstice, 6/21.

  4. Schematic

    A schematic sketch of the space. As the deck is to be communal space shared by all residents, program elements were broad: no fixed furniture, mutable usage zones, and year-round interest. Some of the space is also to function as a no-access (but visible) green roof.

  5. Schematic Detail

  6. Schematic Detail

  7. Site Plan

    To heighten the unique and tundra-like environment so tall above the streets below, and to evoke Isis, goddess of the harvest, the design is kept open and breathable, with a palette of hardy, long-haired grasses to blow in the breeze and soft, winter-hardy, sun-friendly mosses to round out the green roof. In keeping with the materials used to construct the existing tower, green stone and gold glass tiles line the walkable area. Divided by the elevator bank, the East half is a mediation platform partially illuminated from below and surrounded by tall grass and a glass wall, to greet the rising sun; the West half is an open area for parties to toast the sunset. A vernal aqueduct runs through the western side, ending in a cascade of leaves and seed heads tussled in the later-afternoon breeze.

  8. Site Plan Detail

    Showing a gathering on the sunset deck, facing west, plan view.

  9. Site Plan Detail

    A closeup of the 'vernal aqueduct' on the southern terrace, plan view.

  10. Site Plan Detail

    Sun salutations on the eastern sunrise platform, plan view.

  11. North Elevation

    Looking south, depicting the different uses for the east and west terraces, section view.

  12. West Elevation

    Looking east, depicting the different uses of the north and south terraces, section view.

  13. West Elevation Detail

    Toasting the sunset, section view.

  14. West Elevation Detail

    Meditating on the cooler, eastern platform, section view.