Subtle choices transform a mountainous public-works project into a low-sweeping mound that boasts in its ability to blend into its environment, rather than stand out.

Three elements: stone, laminated wood, and glass all rest on a concrete substructure that encases the public music hall beneath a new granite sidewalk. The material pallet provides a durable and beautiful finish for a public space meant for city inhabitants to use—whether they fully see its presence, or not.

Aerial view of 1st Ave. and E Houston St. Peretz Square, the proposed site, highlighted in orange.