Union Square has undergone many renovations over the last few years. In 2009, Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates implemented a new paving and planting scheme and constructed a large innovative playground at the northern end of the park. Architecture Research Office is currently renovating other aspects of the northern end of the park. Through improvements to its architecture and landscape, ARO will be adding a new Comfort Station, a seasonal café within the historic Pavilion, and an operations office. The design weaves the park's familiar existing elements with new construction that will expand the ways in which New Yorkers can make use of the park. ARO's renovations have been awarded the 2010 Norman Buchbinder Award for Community Service, Union Square Partnership.
