Last Wednesday a few members of the NY Chapter of the International Feng Shui Guild and I went on a wonderful tour of The Highline. Not only was it an informative and fun tour by our guide Elena, we were able to take advantage of the lovely warm weather that was still with us. I had visited these tracks once before last year when only the first section from 14th Street to 20th Street was open. That was already impressive. Think about it, right in the middle of crazy NYC (the meatpacking district at that), a few stairs upward, you found yourself in a tranquil haven. That is awesome.
As we sauntered along our tour, Elena informed us of the history of the old train system and how it was restored and made beautiful with the help of talented artists, architects and pro-active residents. I will spare you the details of it all – you can read more about the official Highline history here. I have to say that they did an extraordinary job of adhering to what was the mission of The Highline – to “make it simple, make it quiet, make it slow, make it ….” I think there was one more but I can’t remember it. Help anyone? Maybe it was “make it beautiful.” They definitely succeded in making it all that and more.
I found it remarkable how much thought was put into the lighting or lack thereof. Since we were there at sunset we were really able to witness the transition from day to night. The plants and all the seating were beautifully lit from below as to not obstruct views. Native plants were prevalent, walkways and planks were sometimes windy, allowing chi to slow down and linger but not stagnate. Modern buildings were strike contrasts to the natural beauty but it really worked. One can see how the buildings were built around The Highline, allowing both old and new to co-exist in harmony.
The 5 elements of water, wood, fire, earth and metal were all present making the structure very balanced. Even the planting schedule is reminiscent of the elemental cycle of the seasons – plantings are cut down in March so that the landscaping life cycle is allowed to go through the whole process before it is made anew in the Spring.
Some of my highlights: the constant flowing toe-deep water near the 14th street entrance, the “peeled” lawn near 23rd Street where people were having impromptu moonlight picnics, the talking water fountains made possible by artist Juliane Schwartz that recite poetry and soothing advice.
All this beauty was made possible by the vision of a group, The Friends of the Highline. Go take a walk on The Highline, have a picnic, eat a popsicle but most importantly, don’t forget to become a member of The Highline. Don’t you want to see this oasis preserved and here forever? I sure do.
I would love it if you would share your stories and photos or leave comments.
- Unobtrusive and beautiful lighting
