The Vessel in Kips Bay, New York, is a striking architectural landmark designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick. Officially opened in March 2019, the structure is a part of the Hudson Yards Redevelopment Project. Though often mistaken to be located in Kips Bay, the Vessel is actually situated in the Hudson Yards neighborhood, which borders Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen.
The Vessel stands 150 feet tall and comprises 154 intricately interconnected flights of stairs, nearly 2,500 individual steps, and 80 landings. Its unique honeycomb-like design offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the surrounding cityscape. The structure is made primarily of bronzed steel and concrete, creating a visually captivating combination of industrial and organic aesthetics.
One lesser-known fact about the Vessel is its inspiration. Heatherwick drew inspiration from ancient stepwells in India, which feature similar interlocking staircases that descend deep into the earth. This design not only provides functional pathways but also encourages visitors to explore and interact with the structure in a variety of ways.
The Vessel was constructed at a cost of approximately $200 million. It was fabricated in Italy and shipped to New York in pieces, where it was reassembled on-site. Its construction involved over 18 million pounds of steel, highlighting the complexity and scale of the project.
Despite its architectural brilliance, the Vessel has faced criticism and controversy. Safety concerns arose due to a series of unfortunate incidents, leading to temporary closures and the implementation of new safety measures. These measures include the installation of higher barriers and the requirement for visitors to be accompanied by at least one other person.
The surrounding Hudson Yards area is a marvel of urban development. It features a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural spaces, including the Shed, a flexible cultural venue, and the High Line, an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line. These attractions make Hudson Yards a vibrant and dynamic addition to New York City.
In summary, while the Vessel is a relatively new addition to New York's architectural landscape, it has quickly become an iconic structure. Its intricate design, cultural significance, and the controversies it has faced all contribute to its fascinating narrative within the broader context of urban development and public art.