Upscale Development – Flushing, New York

Flushing’s legacy downtown core remains, transforming with ever-growing retail stacked atop old foundations. There is vibrancy but with an unharmonious visual look. I was pleasantly surprised, however, at the clean and modern development occurring on the west side.

The modernist building in the foreground is a hotel. The development beyond combines big box retail with apartments. Years ago, I believe much of this area was underutilized parking for ConEdison, New York’s utility company. I’m glad to see vast open tracts incorporated into the city’s fabric.

Utilitarian red brick apartments give way to modern glass designs uncharacteristic of Flushing. They look upscale and are a pleasant change of pace from the clutter of the old development, though one can argue that they look more generic.

Unique visual clutter can make for worthwhile photographs and tourist attractions. However, if I had to live there, I would prefer the clean minimal aesthetic. There is enough cacophony in NYC, and any reduction in stimulation would be a welcome change.

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