WXY | PlaNYC Far Rockaway Park

Queens, NY — 2012

The perforated canopy offers shaded seating at the comfort station.

By pairing design inspired by its surroundings with storm-ready infrastructure, PlaNYC Far Rockaway sets a new standard for coastal parks, one where beauty, function, and community work together.

WXY and Quennell Rothschild & Partners orchestrated a design for Far Rockaway Park that respects the rhythm of the Atlantic while inviting the surrounding community to reclaim the shoreline. At 28 acres, the result is a playful, functional architecture that combines resilience and recreation.

An elevated view highlights the park's pavilion, playground, and landscape against the ocean backdrop.

Long vulnerable to storms and erosion, the Rockaway Peninsula required a park that could endure the Atlantic’s challenges while restoring public trust in the community’s future and ability to thrive in the face of nature’s unpredictability.

The comfort station’s pavilion features a perforated canopy and green brick, harmonizing with the surrounding landscape.

Three signature structures anchor the park: a performance canopy, a boardwalk overlook at Beach 20th Street, and the Beach 30th Pavilion, a 3,000-square-foot haven for rest, relaxation, and community gatherings. The Pavilion features an exterior lounge, a comfort station, and glazed brick in five shades of green that camouflage it against the dunes and beach grass. Inspired by parasols and gull wings, architectural forms echo the surrounding wildlife and shoreline. Permeable surfaces improve stormwater collection, and tree planting enhances the park’s ecological resilience. This effort aligns with the MillionTreesNYC initiative, creating a sustainable and striking space that anchors the community.

The comfort station’s green brick facade and airy canopy create a striking centerpiece in the park.

WXY worked with Quennell Rothschild & Partners to create a seamless dialogue between built and natural environments. With guidance from PlaNYC, the project acts as a prototype for coastal resilience built on urban planning and landscape expertise.

The curved canopy of the comfort station integrates with the landscape and echoes the flow of the shoreline.

Two months after its debut, the park faced its first test when Superstorm Sandy hit the region. It emerged largely unscathed, its dunes and elevated design standing firm against the storm’s force. Far Rockaway Park proves that architecture can both embrace and protect the natural world.

The comfort station’s interior features vibrant green tiles and skylights, bringing natural light indoors.

The perforated canopy of the pavilion filters light, creating a tranquil shaded space by the dunes.

The performance canopy’s flowing white roof anchors the park, blending with the coastal surroundings.

The curved metal canopy provides a dynamic focal point, connecting the park’s pathways and open spaces.

The open-air pavilion’s gull wing roof and seating create a welcoming space along the park’s main walkway.

A young girl plays a colorful outdoor piano under a metal canopy in the park.

Modern wooden lounge chairs and shade structure provide a place for relaxation amidst the park’s vibrant landscape.

The site plan illustrates the park’s amenities, including wetlands, play areas, and a performance canopy.

An aerial view showcases the park’s green field, comfort station, and boardwalk amid the urban landscape.

The curved metal-roofed pavilion anchors the park, connecting the beachfront to green open spaces.

A sculptural rock structure invites climbing and play, blending activity with the park’s natural design.

Dynamic play spaces with vibrant green structures and stone seating create a lively park atmosphere.

Client:

New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

Collaborators:

Quennel Rothschild & Partners