<p>Adding a 'Zoning Bonus' public plaza to the project meant that 55 Water Street would be able to be much larger. It was renovated into what is often described as one of New York's 'hidden parks and garden oases'. It has become considerably less 'hidden' as Lower Manhattan has been transformed into a residential neighborhood.</p>

The design manipulates perspective with the sloping ground plane initially obscuring the view of the East River and the Harbor. As people move up the slope and through the dunes, the horizon gradually opens up to the East River and the graceful span of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Harbor are dramatically revealed.  

The Elevated Acre delete - combined with 55 water st

 Ken Smith talks about the collaboration in designing the plaza and light beacon. 