Working in The Big Apple - part II

You do have to lug your bike up a few flights of stairs, but hey, at least it stays nice and dry. And that's necessary because since the end of last week, it's started to rain and drizzle, and it's gotten considerably colder here in the Big Apple. And guess what? The New Yorkers went wild because it hadn't rained for two weeks before that, and that's not good for the dust in the city. What I also find fascinating: of all the people in the building, I'm the only one on a bike. My bike has the closet all to itself.

The Wizard's Hat

Last week, I had a very inspiring tour from Francine Houben in the renovated New York Public Library. Mecanoo worked for almost 10 years on the renovation of the old library on 5th Avenue and did a total remake of the more recent building across the street. It is now known as 'The Wizard's Hat' because of a new characteristic copper-green structure that resembles a wizard's hat. Officially, it's called the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL), and it's a new generation library for all New Yorkers, with special facilities for youth, adult education, and businesses.

Interestingly, it was quite a challenge to give the concept of 'public' content and meaning in such a project, even though it's in the organization's name. It's an interesting observation that ownership over lighting, a basic element for the experience, is lacking in a public building. So, the light in one hallway is too bright, in another, you can't see your hand in front of your face, and lamps can also be hung incorrectly. No one can be held accountable, much to the architect's frustration. This reminded me of a fundamental problem regarding public spaces: ownership and management to optimize and maintain the experience over time are often missing. But when that ownership is taken, as it is here in New York on the High Line, it not only looks great but also generates social cohesion.

Furthermore, it's nice to see how the role of libraries is broadening on a global level, including here in New York. Of course, books still matter, but it's also a place where you can study quietly, meet people, attend (educational) programs, enjoy lunch outside on the top floor, and much more. And very importantly: all of this is for as broad a group of society as possible.

All I (don’t) want…

When you hang around in a city like this for a while, you start to notice completely different things. Which leads to tips. My most important tip for those planning to visit New York these days is about Mariah Carey. If you absolutely hate "All I Want for Christmas Is You": DO NOT GO TO NEW YORK. Wherever you are, whether it's a store, department store, or on the street; you'll hear this earworm in the most bizarre variations everywhere. The Christmas madness in America starts as early as the beginning of November. I also spent three days in LA. Nice sunshine, relaxed

This blog is part of a series of stories. Also read Jeroen's firs blog.Working in The Big Apple - part I and third blog Working in The Big Apple - part III.