The Vessel

Commissioned as the centerpiece of the Hudson Yards redevelopment project on Manhattan's West Side, The Vessel was designed by Thomas Heatherwick and Heatherwick Studio. Unveiled in 2019, it was envisioned as a "climbable sculpture" that would serve as a vertical public park, drawing inspiration from Indian stepwells and the complex geometry of a honeycomb. The structure stands 150 feet tall and consists of 154 interconnecting flights of stairs, 2,500 individual steps, and 80 landings. Its copper-colored steel frame was fabricated in Italy and shipped across the Atlantic in sections. Despite its modern appearance, the design aimed to create a communal space where people could interact at various elevations while enjoying unique perspectives of the city and the Hudson River. Since its opening, the landmark has faced several challenges, leading to temporary closures to address safety concerns. It remains an iconic symbol of New York’s 21st-century urban renewal, representing a shift toward experiential architecture. Today, while access to the upper levels may be restricted, the ground level and its surrounding plaza continue to be a hub for tourists and locals exploring the High Line and Hudson Yards.