A Creative Sanctuary on the Hudson River
Little Island, an artificial island park nestled on the Hudson River just off the western coast of Manhattan, is a harmonious blend of art, nature and community— a must-visit destination for travelers to New York City.
Birth of Little Island
Little Island’s location within Hudson River Park holds historical significance, originally inhabited by the Lenape people during the early colonial period. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the area evolved into a bustling waterfront port. Pier 54, specifically, served as a major departure point for transatlantic ocean liners from 1910 to 1935. It fell into disuse as a port for some time, but in 1998, it was integrated into Hudson River Park and became a venue for hosting outdoor events and concerts.
In 2012, the devastating impact of Hurricane Sandy prompted the Hudson River Park Trust, in partnership with Barry Diller of the Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation, to initiate a revitalization project for Pier 54, envisioning a solution for a unique public space where nature and art would converge under the name “Pier 55.” And so, in 2021, Little Island was born.
New York City has historically lacked such natural areas. While Midtown and Upper Manhattan boast the sprawling green expanse of Central Park, the southern waterfront area along the Hudson River, long a bustling hub for shipping and trade, was notably devoid of nature. That’s what makes the creation of Little Island, with over two acres of new green space, such a welcome addition to the area. It offers New Yorkers a unique urban oasis for recreation and culture.
A Park Unlike Any Other
When the project commenced in 2013, Heatherwick Studio was just beginning to make waves in the design world, having recently won several awards including the gold medal for Pavilion Design at the 2010 Shanghai Expo for the Seed Cathedral. They had also been selected for significant public projects like the 2012 London Olympic Cauldron and the redesign of London’s iconic red double-decker Routemaster buses. As the studio emerged as a rising star, the design world was abuzz asking, “Who is this Heatherwick?
The city of New York and the Hudson River Park Foundation’s requirement for the new pier was for it to be a public space that anyone can enjoy and have an outdoor performance area. In an era where fresh thinking and creativity are paramount, the Heatherwick Studio’s approach, spearheaded by founder Thomas Heatherwick himself, was uniquely innovative. They proposed utilizing the remnants of Pier 54 — hundreds of old structural wooden piles — as a foundation for the new pier’s design. Collaborating with the structural engineering firm Arup, they employed 3D scripting to generate the park’s distinctive, flowerpot-shaped geometric structures. Each of these remarkable tulip pots, weighing up to 75 tons, is entirely unique in form. The island is filled with over 350 species of trees and plants, creating a veritable botanical art installation.
To ensure the long-term viability of a public project, thoughtful programming is just as crucial as the design itself. In the case of Little Island, alongside the selection of Heatherwick Studio in 2013, a non-profit organization was established to concurrently develop engaging programs for the public. Since its grand opening on May 21, 2021, Little Island has welcomed visitors to explore its expansive two-plus acres, offering breathtaking natural views, immersive architectural experiences, diverse educational programs and captivating performances, creating unforgettable moments for all who visit.
As you drive along the Hudson River, Little Island catches your eye as a park where many people take a stroll.
Places to Explore Around Little Island
Printed Matter, Inc.
A bookstore filled with inspiring publications, this is a must-visit for those interested in art and publishing.
- printedmatter.org
Dia Chelsea
The Chelsea branch of the Dia Art Foundation gallery, known for its carefully curated selections, is housed in a historic New York building with a raw, industrial vibe. It offers a meditative experience.
- diaart.org
High Line
Originally built as an elevated railway in the 1930s, this repurposed walkway is now a popular tourist spot and a beloved urban trail in New York. Stretching 2.33km along Manhattan’s West Side, it offers stunning city views and public art.
- thehighline.org
Pier 57
From the rooftop park of Pier 57, you can enjoy views of Little Island and the Hudson River. Inside the Pier 57 building, Market 57 offers a variety of local foods to satisfy your cravings.
- pier57nyc.com
Whitney Museum of American Art
The Whitney is a cornerstone of American modern art showcasing significant works in American art history. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning Italian architect Renzo Piano, the museum houses a collection of over 25,000 works.
- whitney.org
Human-Centered Architecture
Often hailed as the “Leonardo da Vinci of our time,” Thomas Heatherwick’s trajectory as a globally renowned designer and architect continues to ascend. The 2018 opening of Coal Drops Yard at King’s Cross, an important site from London’s Industrial Revolution era, sparked a new dialogue on urban regeneration, and Google’s UK headquarters in the King’s Cross area is expected to be completed at the end of 2025. Adding to this impressive portfolio is the masterplan for London Olympia, a symbol of the city’s modern heritage, which is expected to be unveiled later this year.
Heatherwick will bring his vision for “humancentered architecture” to Seoul this year as the General Director of the 5th Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism. This major exhibition is expected to feature collaborations with 20 teams of diverse artists working with both Korean and international communities. Adding to the anticipation, the Nodeul Island project—selected through an open call in 2024—is also currently underway, helmed by Heatherwick Studio. As Heatherwick’s visits to Korea become more frequent, his deeper understanding of Korea’s local culture and landscapes will undoubtedly be reflected in the Nodeul Island project.
- Lee Jiyoon is the director of the SUUM project and a curator. She curated Heatherwick Studio: Building Soulfulness at Culture Station Seoul 284 in 2023, and she is the project director for the main exhibition of the 5th Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism 2025, working alongside chief director Thomas Heatherwick.
- Written by Lee Jiyoon
- Photography by Timothy Schenck
- Korean Air operates
direct flights between
Incheon and New York
14 times a week.
