BIG’s Dynamic Pyramid Building is a Go for 57th Street

<a href="http://big.dk/" target="_blank">Bjarke Ingels Group</a> is one step closer to creating its monumental new <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/bigs-west-57th-pyramid-is-a-cross-between-a-copenhagen-courtyard-and-a-nyc-skyscraper/" target="_blank">pyramid-shaped residential building</a> on West 57th Street. BIG received planning approval for the sloped structure, which the architects say will be a cross between a Copenhagen courtyard and a traditional <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/top-6-green-skyscrapers-in-new-york-city/" target="_blank">New York skyscraper</a>, this week. Developed by <a href="http://www.durstfetner.com/" target="_blank">The Durst Organization</a>, the block-long complex would overlook the Hudson River and bring a unique new look to the neighborhood.

BIG’s goal was to create a mini-neighborhood that would <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/new-pier-57-incubox-shipping-container-mall-set-to-open-next-april-in-nyc/" target="_blank">connect the waterfront to the rest of 57th Street</a>, while pushing the limits of design.

Rather than another rectangular high rise, the pyramid shape would inspire, as well as create unique placement of new green spaces.

The original plan included an educational building and hotel, but were scrapped when City Planning Commissioner Amanda Burden asked for a residential tower with more impact.

The resulting pyramid building rises from three to thirty eight stories at its peak, with 753 apartments throughout, each flushed with natural light. Twenty percent of these apartments will be slated for <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/b2-will-be-worlds-tallest-modular-tower-and-first-residential-building-in-atlantic-yards/" target="_blank">affordable housing</a>, creating a democratic mix to the new area.

Centering around a courtyard, each inner apartment will face a dense green space that will create a private park rich with trees and plants.

Residents will also enjoy south facing outdoor terraces, and a richly planted green space around the pyramid, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/nyc/photos-newport-green-is-a-hidden-beach-tucked-along-the-hudson-river/" target="_blank">overlooking the shoreline</a>. With Burden’s approval, the innovative project can begin construction, and hopefully be ready for rental by their anticipated 2015 opening date.