multi-arched steel installation by mian ye outlines urban courtyard in brooklyn

Office Mian Ye crafts multi-functional courtyard in new york

Party Walls by Office Mian Ye is a permanent, multi-functional installation situated within a compact courtyard in Brooklyn, New York. Designed to serve the surrounding residential, creative, and public functions, the space integrates diverse building programs, including garden-level residential units, a recording studio, and an art gallery. This courtyard installation balances the dynamic needs of its urban environment with a design that fosters connection and tranquility.

The design centers on a series of multi-arched steel structures crafted from ¼” steel plates. These arches are arranged at varying angles to create a rhythm of open and enclosed spaces, defining private entryways for tenants while facilitating natural light and privacy. Certain arches incorporate planter beds, enabling urban gardening and softening the industrial backdrop with natural greenery. Others are adapted for technical functions, such as supporting a projection screen or providing shade over a bar area, enhancing the versatility of the space.

all images courtesy of Office Mian Ye

powder-coated steel arches shape Party Walls installation

The installation by Office Mian Ye is designed to accommodate a range of activities, including film screenings, workshops, outdoor yoga, and community events. With capacity for up to 50 guests, the courtyard balances open and sheltered zones, ensuring adaptability for events of different scales. Its configuration fosters social engagement while maintaining areas of retreat for residents. Surrounded by buildings clad in a mix of materials such as blue corrugated metal, grey-painted wood, and concrete, the courtyard’s powder-coated steel arches offer a unifying aesthetic. The material palette complements the industrial character of the neighborhood while introducing a cohesive and refined visual identity to the space.

Party Walls by Office Mian Ye redefines a Brooklyn courtyard as a multi-functional shared space

natural greenery complements the steel structures, creating a buffer between public and private spaces

the installation serves diverse programs, including residential units, a recording studio, and an art gallery

multi-arched steel structures crafted from ¼” steel plates frame the courtyard’s spatial design

planter beds integrated into the arches encourage urban gardening and soften the industrial setting

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construction process

construction process

construction process

construction process

construction process

axonometric drawing

exploded view

axonometric drawing

construction detail

project info:

name: Party Walls

architect: Office Mian Ye | @mianye

collaborators: Proptogroup

size: 2500 sqft

location: Brooklyn, New York

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom