Griswold Heights

Dirtworks created communal, accessible, and modern outdoor spaces, as part of the redevelopment of the Griswold Heights community and in support of the Troy Housing Authority’s (THA) mandate “safe, decent and affordable housing for all.”

After World War II and in response to the influx of returning veterans, federal and state agencies began to develop and maintain public housing. Later, this expanded to include eligible low-income and elderly populations. Built in 1950, Griswold Heights was one of the largest properties in the Capital Region to enbody the tenants of housing reform.

Small, out-dated play equipment sat unused within the courtyards shaped by eight “W”- shaped, two story buildings. Expanses of lawn dominated the landscape, effectively providing tenants with privacy, but isolated neighbors from one another, as well. The design team sought to strategically improve and activate specific, high-use areas, while preserving the monumental oak and maple canopy.

Four, generous new playgrounds were positioned at the center of the campus and outside of the popular community center. A tiered seating structure and court-side accessible benches provide all tenants with an opportunity to visit a newly surfaced basketball court. A dual-sized dog run provide pet owners with large and small dogs to exercise their pets in a safe environment on campus. Among the campus amenities and along the foundation of all dwellings are a mixture of sun and shade tolerant plants native to North America, including the office favorite Bouteloua gracilis ‘Blonde Ambition’.

Location
Troy, NY

Completion
2025

Size
35 Acres

Collaborators
Newman Design Architects
MDG Design & Construction

Client
Troy Housing Authority