Dr. Muriel Petioni Plaza is a sustainable model for low income senior living. It is a “HUD 202 mixed financed” development designed to achieve LEED Silver ratings. Promoting environmental and human health are its two outdoor community spaces. Surrounded by native planting beds the 1900 sf Ground Floor Garden provides a sense of enclosure and comfort, with a strong visual connection to the community lounge which overlooks the Garden. Portable furnishings allow flexibility in arrangement to accommodate large or small gatherings and take advantage of the Garden’s changing sun shade conditions.The 750 sf Seventh Floor Terrace’s offers a more intimate open space with movable bistro tables and chairs nestled among planted containers, all under the shade of the vine covered Pergola. The sheltered southern exposure extends use into the early spring and late fall seasons. Commanding views promote a sense of connection to the surrounding neighborhood. The colorful extensive green roof sedum plantings provide year round interest in addition to moderating the Urban Heat Island effect, improving air quality and reducing run-off. Minimal watering needs of the landscape are met with the project’s rainwater harvesting program.

Completed: 2011
Clients: Jonathan Rose Companies, Harlem Congregation for Community Improvements and Body Lawson Associates
Photo Credit:Vanni Rugero