WXY was commissioned to design the new Bronx Music Hall, a 14,000 square foot performing arts venues that will be the centerpiece of the 426,000 square foot Bronx Commons mixed-use development by Danois Architects.

The new, permanent home of the Bronx Music Heritage Center is designed to honor the unique cultural and musical history of the neighborhood, and will serve multiple purposes, including as a flexible performance space with seating for 300 people, a permanent, interactive exhibit that connects visitors to the history and influences of Bronx music, rehearsal and classroom spaces, and a gallery space for temporary or travelling exhibitions.

Adjacent to the Bronx Music Heritage Center WXY designed a new, 10,000 square foot public plaza at the intersection of 163rd St. and Washington Avenue, demapping a portion of Brook Avenue between 163rd street and Elton Avenue. The plaza adds 600 square feet of planted area, all consisting of plants native to the region. It is open and available to the public. 

The 163rd Street Plaza features an arcing green berm that takes advantage of the change in grade on the site. In the upper area, a 2,250 square foot gathering area features a raised podium for performances and space for community workshops. In the lower area, around 2,100 square feet of open space is provided, ideal for open-air markets and events.

WXY also designed a 2,000 square foot plaza along 162nd Street, this time taking advantage of the natural grade change to create a sunken amphitheater with seating for 60 people. A large sliding door next to the amphitheater opens up, allowing the space to also functon as seating for the indoor theater. The plaza creates 525 square feet of plantings, acting as a buffer between the sidewalk and the amphitheater space.