Gateways to Chinatown is a design competition organized by the NYC Department of Transportation, Chinatown Partnership and Van Alen Institute.

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PKSB’s competition entry explores the idea of a “gateway” as a threshold between two spaces. The form is inspired by traditional Chinese garden walls which include various openings called “leak windows.” Painted in contrasting colors on either side, the wall transforms depending on the visitor’s viewpoint. Each side provides a unique experience and perspective. Each opening in the wall provides a unique window into the past and present life of the site.