Columbus Circle Compass

[BigMac]

I wanted my fellow WNYers to be among the first to be informed of this proposal:

As can be observed in Stern's New Columbus Circle thread, I have a fondness for the circle and had been following its renovation closely. Recently, in my mind's eye, I saw the circle in a completely different light and was inspired to pursue the idea:




(Compass Renderings: John P./Original Photos: Polycor)

It has since stayed on my mind, as has the realization of a number of refining aesthetic and historical benefits of such an addition to the circle.

Most people seem either to be highly pleased with the renovated circle, or mildly satisfied but slightly disappointed. Perhaps the fruition of this concept would please both groups.

These renderings are just conceptual and were created mainly as a primer, but if you support the general idea of the Columbus Circle Compass, I have created a website and petition for the project. Any feedback is welcome and appreciated, and also any suggestions for potential contacts within New York City government.

Thank you in advance for anything you do to spread the word, and please support the idea by signing the petition, which I will eventually send to the appropriate powers that be.

[MidtownGuy]

I think it's a clever idea BigMac.

[ablarc]

Very nice concept.




Moreover, the column casts a shadow. You can always tell the precise bearing of the sun.

You could even install subtle markers that would enable it to tell time (Eastern Standard).

[czsz]

Imagine the ensuing confusion upon discovering the grid isn't perfectly oriented along cardinal directions...

[lofter1]

I like the concept -- and the sundial aspect as well.

[BigMac]

Moreover, the column casts a shadow. You can always tell the precise bearing of the sun.

You could even install subtle markers that would enable it to tell time (Eastern Standard).

Very good observation. It would work well in conjunction with the compass ring and make it that much more effective.

[kz1000ps]

This seems like a no-brainer. I love the idea and think it more or less "completes" the circle visually. Good luck drumming up the (financial) support!

[kz1000ps]

FYI, Gothamist has found out about your proposal and has included a link to the site in today's "Extra, Extra."

[lofter1]

It's on curbed today,too ...

At Columbus Circle, A Rose is a Rose?

[BigMac]

It's on curbed today,too ...

At Columbus Circle, A Rose is a Rose?

Thanks, all.

Now at 47 signatures and going strong.

[BigMac]

I received an email today from the Department of Design and Construction. They have forwarded this recommendation to the Central Park Conservancy as well as Olin Partnership for their consideration!

[ZippyTheChimp]

Way to go, BigMac.

[lofter1]

Congrats ...

Remember that the guys who got the High Line started were just two grass-roots dudes with an idea that took off ...

[antinimby]

Good job BigMac.

From the website, it says:

a large-scale compass rose imprinted on the granite plaza between the benches and central monument

By what method will they get the images onto the surface? Painting? Engraving?

And the night shot shows them lit up, so I'm assuming there'll be some kind of lighting gadgetry as well?

[BigMac]

Good job BigMac.
By what method will they get the images onto the surface? Painting? Engraving?

And the night shot shows them lit up, so I'm assuming there'll be some kind of lighting gadgetry as well?

I leave the specific method of impression for the city to decide.

As for the night lighting: that is just a conceptual rendering as is the daytime design, but I can envision each of the four points lit at night in some fashion (perhaps with lights affixed to the same posts that illuminate the monument), thus continuing the compass effect into the evening and adding yet more appeal to Columbus Circle when seen from above.