the urban conga transforms concrete bleacher into playscape
At the Morris Houses in the Bronx, an underutilized concrete bleacher has been transformed into a vibrant hub of activity known as the Common Corner. Co-designed by multidisciplinary studio The Urban Conga in collaboration with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) and, most importantly, the residents themselves, the project breathes new life into a space that had fallen into disuse over decades. This community-led revitalization serves as a flexible gathering place designed to foster multigenerational connection and open-ended play.
the installation encourages social connection within the space
community-led design process in the bronx
The Urban Conga facilitated the design through a series of workshops using play methodologies, creating a safe environment for residents to share their dreams and stories. This participatory process ensured the final design was a direct reflection of the community’s identity. The site is now organized into three interconnected zone — social, active, and fantasy play — each catering to different needs. From accessible seating with grab bars to a stage-like platform for storytelling and performance, the space balances physical exercise with social rest and imaginative expression.
the project is intended to spotlight the space and catalyze further investment in the surrounding space
art and design playscape
Visually, the Common Corner is tied together by a forced-perspective mural that wraps around the structure, signaling a growing and evolving vision for the development. The upper section features reflective, color-changing mirrors and perforated panels for community-created paracord art, making the environment dynamic and shifting. Adding a layer of local pride, the risers are inscribed with affirmations chosen by the residents, such as ‘Dream Big’ and ‘Stronger Together,’ turning the site into a permanent source of encouragement.
an open-ended design allows the space to adapt to a range of activities
Part of NYCHA’s Connected Communities program, the Common Corner is a testament to the power of resident-led design. By transforming a static piece of infrastructure into a social landmark, the project demonstrates how public-private partnerships can modernize open spaces while strengthening the social fabric of the neighborhood.
‘Common Corner represents what we can achieve when residents’ voices are truly heard,‘ said Regina Carter, President of the Morris Houses Residents Association. ‘For years, these bleachers sat empty, but through this project, they’ve been transformed into something beautiful and meaningful for everyone. A place where young people, older adults, and families alike can meet and play. For us, this is more than a space to sit; it’s a space to come together, to play, and to celebrate our community.‘
zones for active play, including a climbing wall
the installation is organized into zones that encourage social, active, and imaginative play
reflective color-changing mirrors reflect and refract the surrounding environment
phrases of affirmations chosen by the community line the work
perforated panels wrap the existing fence, creating a framework for future paracord artworks
the mural guides movement across the steps, encouraging varied paths and ways of experiencing it
the space serves as an entryway into the Morris House community
the design wraps up and over the existing steps to encourage more is to come to the space
project info:
name: Common Corner
designer: The Urban Conga
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