Restoring a Haven

Fire Island Pines emerged in the mid-20th century as an escape from normative society for creatives and divergent thinkers in and around the NYC area. As the Pines, like many other creative havens, became more well-known, it caught the attention of affluent northeasterners in search of cachet. Today, The Pines is as a result more expensive, less inclusive and less creative. Increased popularity and limited housing options have exacerbated an inflated rental market, and Fire Island continues to face inundation threats as a barrier island, all bringing into question the long-term viability of Fire Island as a queer destination.

The project aims to restore short-term housing options for marginalized members of the queer community, enabled by the establishment of long-term creative residencies. This year round engagement should bring divergence back to The Pines, contributing to the revitalization of a queer landmark at a seminal moment in queer history while providing a model for short- and long-term solutions to building community in the face of sea level rise.

2023 AIA COTE Top Ten for Students Competition