Queens Community Space & Parking Garage

Queens, NY

At the intersection of Queens Borough Hall and the Criminal Courthouse, a purposeful architectural composition takes shape. The design splits a community center and parking structure into distinct forms – a strategic approach that anchored this key project in New York City’s $8 billion detention center program.

The 29,000-square-foot community space stands independent from its counterpart: eight-level parking deck housing 600 vehicles, with accessible spots and EV charging stations. This separation responds to both structural necessity and design intent – the distinct building types require different column grids and load bearing systems. The split allows each structure to express its ideal architectural language while maintaining visual harmony through complementary materials and forms.

Photo Credit: J. Michael Worthington, Jr.

A thoughtfully designed plaza integrates the building’s distinct functions, featuring exterior stairs that lead to a green roof. The design demonstrates how infrastructure can transcend utility to create meaningful urban spaces. Separate cores efficiently manage circulation, while the community space shell awaits its future non-profit tenant’s vision