The newly unveiled Freedom Plaza represents an innovative civic and cultural initiative for Manhattan’s East Side. It features a vast green space designed to transform the urban park experience. Designed by OJB Landscape Architecture, Freedom Plaza encompasses approximately 4.7 acres of vibrant and accessible public green space, serving the neighborhood’s needs for open areas, improved connectivity, and outdoor community engagement.
Freedom Plaza, developed by Soloviev Group and designed by the BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group, spans 6.3 acres from 38th to 41st Street, east of First Avenue. This mixed-use development includes approximately 4.7 acres of green space and features two residential towers offering affordable housing for working individuals. Additionally, the plaza will provide locally-oriented retail options and a diverse array of shopping and dining experiences. Other amenities include a daycare center, a museum dedicated to democracy, a community center, and two world-class hotels from renowned resort leaders Mohegan and Banyan Tree Group, which will also offer modern gaming for individuals aged 21 and over. To ensure compliance with previous city approvals, the residential buildings have been slightly reoriented.
Video Credit OJB Landscape Architecture/Soloviev Group
“Freedom Plaza is a sanctuary in the heart of the city, where the rhythm of nature harmonizes with the pulse of urban life. Every corner of Freedom Plaza tells a story of renewal and connection, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and experience the tranquility and joy of nature in the city. The plant palette is comprised of native trees and plants that will thrive in the city and remind visitors of the beauty all around them.”
Jim Burnett, founder of OJB and project designer.
From the moment visitors arrive at Freedom Plaza’s First Avenue entrance, they will be welcomed by the park’s lush landscaping and a sense of openness. The arrival plaza invites pedestrians into a dynamic environment of 350 trees across eight species and a curated palette of plants designed to promote biodiversity and stormwater absorption, and offer seasonal interest year-round, reflecting the magnetic energy of New York City.
With its expansive lawns and intimate garden rooms, Freedom Plaza embodies the idea that the activities bringing people together are those that build memories, connect neighbors, and reflect the unique experience of living in New York City. Utilizing the natural grade change across the site, the park features a series of outdoor garden rooms, with sinuous elevated pathways that frame distinct areas, giving the entire development the character of being wrapped in a lush, green embrace.F reedom Plaza’s 18,000-square-foot central lawn serves as its heart—a flexible green space perfect for picnics or community gatherings. This expansive area will offer unobstructed views of the East River and skyline, ensuring an inspiring experience throughout the day.
Visitors can stroll along the 1.2 miles of accessible pathways, which guide them to distinct “garden rooms” and scenic overlooks. The 700-foot East River Promenade is a highlight, designed to provide sweeping views over the FDR and to the East River and beyond, while a series of pathways will create a sense of discovery and adventure.
For families, the 7,000-square-foot children’s play area with adjacent seating will be a destination in itself, featuring natural materials, climbing structures, and spaces designed for toddlers to pre-teens.
The 6,000-square-foot water garden, inspired by the region’s geologic and ecological history, offers a serene retreat, complete with cascading water features and shaded seating areas. Nearby, the park’s six food kiosks will provide refreshments and foster a community-centered social ambiance.
The north end of the park will allow visitors to ascend to the museum dedicated to democracy and community center, which features an outdoor amphitheater for educational programming and cultural events. The museum and its surrounding terraces also offer breathtaking views of the East River and beyond, completing the park’s blend of art, play, and natural beauty.
Freedom Plaza
Location: Manhattan’s East Side, New York, USA
Design: OJB Landscape Architecture
Client: Soloviev Group and Mohegan;
Images Credit: OJB Landscape Architecture/Soloviev Group