Carl Turner's inspiration: The High Line, Manhattan

HighLine 07

Source: Courtesy of Diller Scofidio + Renfro/Iwan Baan

This conversion of a redundant railway line into a linear park is a model for successful regeneration, says Carl Turner

I’ve always had a great interest in the spaces between buildings, almost more than the buildings themselves. I’d seen drawings by Diller Scofidio + Renfro of the High Line so when I visited New York in 2010, this was one of two places – along with SANAA’s New Museum of Contemporary Art – that I really wanted to see. But just after we arrived, there was one of those legendary New York storms and to my massive disappointment, the High Line was closed because of the blizzards on our first two days. On day three on the way to the airport, we rather forlornly tried again. It had just stopped snowing and so finally, to our relief, we were able to experience this amazing place covered in snow and with hardly anyone else up there, which made it even more memorable.

This is premium content. 

Only logged in subscribers have access to it.

Login or SUBSCRIBE to view this story

Gated access promo

Existing subscriber? LOGIN

A subscription to Building Design will provide:

  • Unlimited architecture news from around the UK
  • Reviews of the latest buildings from all corners of the world
  • Full access to all our online archives
  • PLUS you will receive a digital copy of WA100 worth over £45.

Subscribe now for unlimited access.

Alternatively REGISTER for free access on selected stories and sign up for email alerts