In the last post, I shared some great Brooklyn architecture. Today we’ll focus on a newer section of Manhattan, Hudson Yards. At the northern end of the High Line, which was discussed in a past post here, there are two great new additions worth spending some time exploring.

First up, The Vessel by Thomas Heatherwick. Met with controversy over the price tag and uselessness as it’s been dubbed the stairway to nowhere, a giant shwarma, a pineapple without its top, or a beehive. On the flip side some have said it’s New York City’s Eiffel Tower…hmmm, time will tell on that one, I think 😉 Also, been likened to an Escher drawing. This I can see, though I can see all versions of the many comparisons that have been made.

Regardless of whether you think the design is interesting or not, it is a fun space to photograph. Honestly, anything sculptural is fun to photograph. Particularly in an abstract and detailed way. So, let’s get onto those photos.

First, from a wider perspective…

Definitely see the Esher-like quality, right? A couple more takes on all those stairways. Incorporating people gives the space a sense of scale along with a point of connection.

Isolating some of the details while inside the Vessel can make for some interesting shots. As well as utilizing the surrounding buildings for contrasting backdrops in colors and textures.

Further isolating details and all those angles from the inside with pieces of the Vessel and neighboring buildings.

From outside the Vessel looking up, more great textural and color contrasts with the surrounding buildings.

Or go purely abstract and play with the curvy, warped reflection in the bronze of the structure.

Now, moving onto The Shed. A gallery, concert and exhibition space designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro. The most interesting aspect of the design from a photographic standpoint is the telescoping shell which allows for both indoor and open-air spaces. The way the light and colors change on this shell depending on where the light is bouncing from…the blue sky, the copper color of the vessel, the sun, etc. makes for some interesting shots.

Viewed through the front glass wall of the neighboring mall creating some interesting layers in terms of warping and the contrast in the rigidness of the windows and their beams and the warpiness of the Shed in the background through the glass.

If you’ve photographed here, would love to see your interpretations. Be sure to share in the Facebook Group here.