Zaha Hadid's 520 West 28th Opens 15 Cultural Spaces in Chelsea

Zaha Hadid Architects' first New York residential project, 520 West 28th, is nearing completion with 39 luxury units. The building, located on the High Line, features exclusive residences with high-end finishes, including Italian-made details, ranging from 90 to 500 square meters. The developer Related has announced the opening of 15 new cultural spaces between West 28th and West 27th Streets, designed to host galleries and institutions in a European-style gallery model. These spaces will have exhibition surfaces between 60 and 160 square meters and shared amenities including dining. Paul Kasmin Gallery has already confirmed its presence. The cultural spaces will be ready by spring 2017. They join the High Line Nine independent galleries in a new building by Studio MDA in the same area. Greg Gushee, executive vice president of Related, stated that the idea was inspired by the sculptural quality of Hadid's building, calling it "one of the most beautiful residential buildings in the city and a monumental work of art." He added that they saw an opportunity to expand and enhance the West Chelsea Art District, which had been considered in decline due to over-commercialization and hurricane risks. The district's revival is partly driven by major architects attracted by real estate development following the High Line's success.