In order to densify our land-poor modernizing cities, we must consider the air space above existing buildings. The use of air space allows the opportunity to densify while still preserving the original landmark. These projects are possible through construction techniques that utilize steel in order to support the complex structures.The above considerations were exhibited on a prototypical 1920 historic building. “Grand” in both name and materiality, The Grand Manse is a stately concrete and glass building currently listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. The Air Rights project makes contextually conscious use of valuable air rights space above the landmark Grand Manse by providing a unique architectural solution through the use of steel construction. As modern cities continue to densify we must reconsider historic buildings via air rights proposals and reconsider the nostalgic notion of preservation.

Jury Comments: The jury appreciated the framing of a critical and timely issue – historic preservation (past) and urban density (future). A very provocative idea that solves a need to balance density, development, and historic preservation.