HYPER-HABITAT

“What is the future of the New York City waterfront?”

Rapid industrialization and human activity have caused a massive loss of natural habitat along New York City’s coastline. This has led to a sharp decline in water quality, largely due to the loss of oysters and coastal plants. The shoreline is now rigid and crowded, amidst
an increasing need for housing. How can we return the shoreline to nature while meeting the need for urban living?

This project explores a new housing model for Pier 7 in Brooklyn, transforming it into a thriving ecosystem built above the water. By reusing the existing piles, the project reimagines the New York City block as an elevated community that combines urban life with ecological
restoration. At the heart of the design is an oyster farm, which serves both ecological and commercial purposes. The farm improves water quality, supports sustainable food
markets, and features public oyster bars that connect the community to the waterfront and its natural restoration.

This mixed-use housing integrates nature into daily life, bringing native plants and animals into residential spaces. It highlights the healing benefits of nature while creating more space for it in a dense urban environment. Pier 7 becomes a model for a resilient future where people and nature live side by side and flourish together.