I give this public space 5/5 stars. You can tell that it’s a public space because there’s multiple signs outside and inside the building. It’s very spacious and clean.There’s also some greenery at the entrances that make it pretty. There’s a security desk and cameras so you feel very safe. There’s also a couple of computers that people can use to do work. It has elevators which make it accessible, a water fountain, and a bathroom. The vibes are very chill and cozy. I would definitely return to this place.
Although full of greenery, the space was void of people (most likely due to the cold weather). I can only imagine how the space would look during the summer, but I imagine it would not garner too much people due to how remote the signs are (a total of 2 signs). The first sign we found was hidden in an almost random pillar facing walls rather than any incoming pedestrian, which foreseeably limits the foot traffic. There was a visible, almost threatening barrier around this space, namely building that seems to host residents. These building allude to the space being private which may chase off any potential enjoyer. There is also a lack of visible drinking water source (did not see one in my time there) and bathroom (or indicator of where to find one). The pros of this space is the vibrant plants in the middle of the property with birds fluttering occasionally, almost dancing with the plants. I can imagine how peaceful a potential lunch time could be here (when the weather warms up). There were plenty of benches but some tables would have been appreciated as well. Overall, a 2.5 out of 5 (was 3/5 until I started to write this review).
First impression was the space was that it is well designed with high ceilings and plenty of moving space. The starking contrast of the green wall against the relatively muted palette allows the wall to provide its due job of engaging the viewer. The space is wide with plenty of facilities, including but not limited to, a cafe (only open on Tuesdays and Saturdays), moveable tables and chairs, green wall, water decor, water fountain (on a more cramped second floor), restroom (on the second floor but is accessible), video screening, etc. I observed a game of chess being played, proving the comfortability of this POPS. On another side was a couple having a presumable date. There were signs everywhere that declared the space was public, I personally counted more than 4. I liked how the signs made it clear what was inside the facility, including a free show once a week (which we did not have the opportunity to see). My critiques are as follows, the entrance accessible door is partly broken which defeats the purpose of the accessibility button, the space leading into the bathroom is very cramped (but it seems to be gender neutral which is nice), and finally, the cafe is opened at very limited times (this is biased cause I was hungry).
Review and pictures by Selina Zheng (Macaulay Hunter College ’27)
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