Promoting Freedom for Creative Architecture
Vessel is a new landmark attraction in New York City that draws visitors from around the world. Designed by Heatherwick Studio, it is a 16-story interactive sculpture consisting of 154 flights of stairs, 80 landings, and 2,500 steps. The structure is located in the heart of Hudson Yards, the largest private real estate development in the United States. Vessel offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the Hudson River, and the surrounding neighborhood.
Heatherwick Studio, a prominent design firm in London, designed Vessel. The Studio's founder, Thomas Heatherwick, is known for his inventive approach to design, which often incorporates unconventional materials and techniques. For Vessel, he drew inspiration from the ancient stepwells of India and the M.C. Escher drawing "Ascending and Descending." The result is a unique and innovative structure that challenges visitors to explore it from every angle.
Construction of Vessel began in 2017 and was completed in 2019. The project was a collaboration between Heatherwick Studio, builders, and engineers. The structure is made of a steel frame with a copper-colored cladding that gives it a warm and inviting appearance. The flights of stairs are arranged in a honeycomb-like pattern and are interconnected without any visible vertical supports.
Vessel is open to the public and offers a range of experiences for visitors. The structure contains 80 landings that allow visitors to rest and take in the views. There are also many different staircases to climb, each offering a unique perspective of the surrounding environment. Visitors are encouraged to climb as high as they can go and explore the structure from every angle.
One of the unique aspects of Vessel is its interactivity. Visitors are encouraged to take selfies and pictures of their climb, and share them on social media using the hashtag #TheVessel. The structure also features a sound system that plays music and sound effects as visitors climb, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.
Vessel has quickly become a popular destination in New York City, attracting millions of visitors since its opening. Its striking design and interactive features have made it a favorite among tourists and locals alike. The structure has also been praised for its contribution to the development of Hudson Yards, which has transformed a former industrial area into a vibrant neighborhood.
In addition to its economic impact, Vessel has also generated controversy. Some critics have raised concerns about its safety and accessibility, arguing that the structure is too difficult to climb for some visitors. Others have criticized the development of Hudson Yards, arguing that it caters to the ultra-wealthy and ignores the needs of the city's working-class residents.
Admission to Vessel is free, but visitors must obtain a timed-entry ticket in advance.
The climb to the top of Vessel can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the visitor's pace.
Yes, Vessel is accessible to people with disabilities. The structure has an elevator that provides access to all levels.
There is no food or drink available at Vessel, but there are many restaurants and cafes nearby in Hudson Yards.
No, visitors are not allowed to bring backpacks or large bags into Vessel. There are storage lockers available for a fee.$$$
