Preserving Chelsea's Public Housing:
A Call to Rethink the Plans

The Fulton and Elliott-Chelsea Houses in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood are more than just structures; they are communities rich in history and diversity. For decades, these NYCHA developments have provided affordable housing to thousands, fostering a sense of belonging and stability. However, recent plans by the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), in partnership with developers Essence and Related, propose demolishing these complexes to make way for new mixed-income housing. This proposal has sparked significant debate among residents and community members.​6sqft+5NY1+5New York Amsterdam News+56sqft+2stopfecdemolition.org+2Harlem Tourism | Harlem Tourism Board+2

Resident Voices and Concerns

In 2023, a survey revealed that 57% of nearly 1,000 tenants who voted supported the demolition plan. While this majority indicates some level of agreement, it's crucial to note that this was a non-binding survey, and concerns persist among residents. Many fear potential loss of lease rights, increased rents, and the impact on community cohesion. A coalition of tenants has voiced opposition, presenting petitions signed by 939 residents, emphasizing the importance of preserving their homes and community spaces. ​Gothamist+1NY1+16sqft

Community Impact and Environmental Concerns

The proposed demolition threatens not only the homes of approximately 5,000 residents but also valuable recreational spaces and over 370 mature trees. The loss of these green areas would significantly affect the neighborhood's environmental quality and residents' well-being. Community leaders argue that the plan prioritizes new constructions over the preservation of existing, affordable public housing and the irreplaceable community fabric. ​midtownsouthcc.org

Alternative Solutions: Rehabilitation Over Demolition

Rehabilitation of existing structures offers a viable alternative to demolition. Renovating the current buildings would preserve the community's history and minimize displacement. For instance, the Baychester Houses in the Bronx underwent significant renovations, improving living conditions without displacing residents or altering the community's character. This approach demonstrates that with thoughtful planning, it's possible to enhance living conditions while respecting the existing community. ​New York YIMBY

A Call for Inclusive Decision-Making

It's essential that all residents have a say in the future of their homes. While the 2023 survey indicated majority support for demolition, the concerns of the dissenting residents cannot be overlooked. A more inclusive decision-making process is needed, one that genuinely considers the voices of all affected, addresses their concerns, and explores all possible alternatives. As civil rights attorney Norman Siegel stated, "We need to find the political will and financial resources to continue to keep public housing public." ​GothamistNew York Amsterdam News

Prioritizing Community and Affordability

The proposed demolition of the Fulton and Elliott-Chelsea Houses represents a pivotal moment for Chelsea. It's an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to affordable housing and community preservation. By prioritizing rehabilitation over demolition and ensuring inclusive, transparent decision-making, we can honor the legacy of these developments and protect the residents who call them home. Let's work together to find solutions that uphold the values of community, affordability, and sustainability.​midtownsouthcc.org+7New York YIMBY+7NY1+7

Sources

Manhattan Community Board 4 (CB4) has been actively engaged in discussions regarding the redevelopment of the Fulton and Elliott-Chelsea Houses, proposing alternative solutions to NYCHA's demolition plan.​

CB4's Alternative Proposal

In 2019, CB4 introduced a plan to preserve the existing NYCHA developments by utilizing Transferable Development Rights (TDRs). This approach would involve expanding the Special West Chelsea District to include the Fulton and Elliott-Chelsea Houses, allowing underutilized sites to access additional floor area ratio (FAR). The goal was to raise funds for public housing repairs without resorting to demolition, thereby maintaining the community's integrity and avoiding displacement of residents. ​Chelsea Community News -

Community Engagement and Concerns

CB4 has hosted multiple public forums and meetings to discuss NYCHA's proposed redevelopment plan and to gather community input. These sessions have been platforms for residents to voice their concerns, particularly regarding potential displacement and the preservation of community ties. ​Chelsea Community News -+2CB Manhattan+2CB Manhattan+2

Ongoing Advocacy

While CB4 has not issued a formal stance on the current redevelopment proposal, its history of advocating for preservation and community involvement suggests a continued commitment to exploring alternatives that prioritize the well-being of residents and the integrity of the community.​

For more detailed information and updates, you can visit CB4's official website: CB4 Chelsea NYCHA Proposal Updates.

You said:

what do elected officials say?

Elected officials have expressed varying perspectives on the NYCHA redevelopment plan for the Fulton and Elliott-Chelsea Houses. Here's an overview:

Supportive Officials:

• Mayor Eric Adams has endorsed the plan, emphasizing that it represents a historic effort to rebuild existing NYCHA developments and provide residents with modern, dignified housing. He highlighted the collaboration with Essence Development and Related Companies as a step toward transforming public housing across New York City. ​Related+1Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York+1

• Congressman Jerrold Nadler praised the plan for putting residents' needs and priorities at the forefront. He noted that the new apartments would offer modern, comfortable housing for existing residents while adding approximately 3,500 new units to the campuses. ​The Village Sun+1Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York+1

• State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Tony Simone also supported the plan, citing the majority of tenants who voted in favor and the potential for improved living conditions. ​The Village Sun+1www.chelseanewsny.com+1

Opposing Voices:

• Renee Keitt, the newly elected president of the Elliott-Chelsea Tenants Association, has voiced strong opposition to the redevelopment plan. She criticized the process as lacking transparency and claimed that the majority of residents were not adequately informed. Keitt likened the plan to "separate but equal," suggesting it perpetuates inequality. ​ArchUp+2www.ourtownny.com+2Wet Satin Press+2

• Community activists and some residents have expressed concerns about potential displacement and the loss of resident rights under the proposed Public Housing Preservation Trust (PACT) model. They argue that the plan prioritizes development over community needs and could lead to increased rents and reduced tenant protections. ​

In summary, while city and state officials have largely supported the redevelopment plan, emphasizing modernization and resident benefits, tenant leaders and community activists have raised significant concerns about transparency, displacement, and the preservation of tenant rights. The debate continues as stakeholders seek to balance development goals with the needs and rights of existing residents.

​The New York City Council has been actively engaged in discussions surrounding the proposed redevelopment of the Fulton and Elliott-Chelsea Houses. While some members have supported the plan, others have expressed concerns about its potential impact on residents and the community.​

Supportive Stance:

• Council Member Erik Bottcher, representing the Chelsea district, has been a proponent of the redevelopment plan. He has emphasized the need for modernizing public housing to provide residents with safer and more dignified living conditions. Bottcher has also highlighted the collaboration between NYCHA, the private developers, and the residents in shaping the redevelopment process. ​Related

Opposition and Concerns:

• Council Member Chris Banks has raised questions about the approval status of the redevelopment plan. During a Committee on Public Housing meeting in February 2025, Banks inquired about the status of the RAD/PACT conversion for the Fulton/Elliott-Chelsea campuses. NYCHA officials confirmed that while the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is aware of the proposal, final approval has not been granted, and the environmental review process is ongoing. ​citymeetings.nyc

• Council Member Althea Stevens, who has a background in public housing advocacy, has expressed reservations about the plan. Stevens has emphasized the importance of resident involvement in decision-making processes and has called for transparent and equitable solutions to address the needs of public housing communities. ​Wikipedia

In response to community concerns, the city established a working group to ensure that residents have a voice in the redevelopment process. This group includes tenant leaders, NYCHA representatives, elected officials, and advocacy organizations, aiming to develop a plan that reflects the interests and needs of the community. ​Gothamist+1Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York+1

The debate continues as stakeholders seek to balance the goals of modernization and affordability with the rights and desires of existing residents.​

 

Zoning Reforms NYC Needs to Build More Affordable Housing

New York City is in the midst of a housing crisis, and zoning laws play a crucial role in shaping how (and where) we build new homes. If the city wants to create more affordable housing, it needs to rethink outdated zoning rules that limit density, drive up construction costs, and make it harder to build where housing is needed most.

Here are the most effective zoning changes NYC can implement to unlock more affordable housing:

1. Upzone in Key Areas

New York needs to allow taller, denser residential buildings, especially near subway stations and high-capacity transit lines. Expanding Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) policies can encourage the construction of more multi-family housing where people already commute. Neighborhoods with good infrastructure should be prioritized for increased height and density allowances.

2. Eliminate Parking Requirements

NYC still requires many new buildings to include a minimum number of parking spaces, even in areas well-served by public transit. This adds unnecessary costs—parking garages can cost $50,000+ per space to build—and takes up space that could be used for more apartments. Removing or reducing these mandates would lower construction costs and make affordable housing projects more feasible.

3. Strengthen Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH)

NYC’s Mandatory Inclusionary Housing (MIH) program requires developers to include a certain percentage of affordable units when building in upzoned areas. However, the program could be more ambitious. Increasing the required set-asides for affordable housing while offering developers more flexibility (like increased Floor Area Ratio or tax incentives) would lead to more mixed-income developments citywide.

4. Legalize More Housing Types

NYC’s zoning laws often prevent homeowners from adding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), like basement apartments or backyard cottages. Legalizing ADUs citywide would allow more affordable, small-scale housing options. Additionally, rezoning low-density areas—like parts of Queens and Staten Island—to permit small apartment buildings instead of just single-family homes would significantly boost housing supply.

5. Convert Underutilized Commercial & Industrial Spaces

Many office buildings, hotels, and industrial spaces sit underused or vacant, yet zoning restrictions often prevent them from being converted into housing. Rezoning these areas to allow residential development—especially near transit corridors—could create thousands of new affordable homes.

6. Reform the 12 FAR Cap

New York State law currently limits the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for residential buildings to 12.0, capping how dense housing developments can be. This outdated rule prevents the construction of more high-rise apartment buildings in areas where they make sense. Lifting or modifying this restriction would allow for greater density and more affordable housing units.

7. Streamline the Approval Process

Many housing projects in NYC face years of delays due to a slow and unpredictable approval process. The city should establish more as-of-right zoning rules for affordable housing, allowing projects that meet clear criteria to move forward without lengthy discretionary reviews. Reducing community board veto power over projects that meet affordability goals would also speed up much-needed housing production.

8. Prioritize Affordable Housing on City-Owned Land

NYC owns a large amount of underutilized land, including vacant lots and underdeveloped sites. Prioritizing these properties for 100% affordable housing projects—with long-term affordability guarantees—would be a game-changer. The city could also partner with non-profits and mission-driven developers to ensure that new housing remains accessible to low- and middle-income New Yorkers.

Conclusion

NYC’s housing crisis isn’t going away on its own. The city needs bold zoning reforms to allow more housing—especially affordable housing—where it’s needed most. By updating outdated rules, streamlining approvals, and making better use of available land, NYC can ensure that more people have access to safe, affordable places to live.

The time for action is now. Will the city rise to the challenge?

Art of Forgetting

The Art of Forgetting is not simply an act of memory loss, but a profound and intentional process of release. In a world constantly filled with noise, obligations, and distractions, the ability to forget serves as a form of liberation. To forget is not to erase, but to unburden oneself from the weight of past wounds, regrets, and unnecessary attachments. It is a delicate dance between remembrance and release, where one learns to let go of what no longer serves them, creating space for healing, growth, and new experiences.

Forgetting, when done consciously, allows us to preserve our mental and emotional well-being. It is an art of discernment: knowing which memories, thoughts, and emotions to hold on to, and which to let slip away. It does not mean ignoring or dismissing the past, but rather choosing not to let it dominate our present or future. It is about embracing impermanence, understanding that life is fluid, and the moments that once shaped us no longer need to control us.

In the act of forgetting, there is freedom. It is in this space of release that we cultivate resilience, wisdom, and an openness to the present moment. Through the art of forgetting, we learn not only to forgive others, but also to forgive ourselves, allowing for transformation and rebirth. Forgetting becomes an art form in itself—a beautiful, subtle process of shedding, evolving, and living fully in the now.

Viren Brahmbhatt Interview Featured in December 2016 issue of Steel Structures & Metal Buildings

LINK to the interview

FloatSpace | Project by de.Sign featured in iDecorama Magazine

FloatSpace | Project by de.Sign featured in iDecorama Magazine

Manhattan Loft by de.Sign

Update | August 2016

Here is the link to our updated website with Urban Design section updated.

SplitSpace by de.Sign | Manufactured Space

An office space that doubles up as an exhibition space/gallery for an art-house & fabrication service provider. The building is designed to incorporate components manufactured in-house by the fabricator including the precast concrete slab/roof, steel structure and canvas concrete screen.

Documentary Captures Pre-Gentrified 1980s Williamsburg

Documentary Captures Pre-Gentrified 1980s Williamsburg

de.Sign Works | Under Construction

de.Sign | DETAILS

Lutyens' Delhi

Decolonizing Delhi, and our GSAPP Studio work featured in an article in Indian Express; Sept. 20, 2015

e[X]Sport City | Seoul, 2nd Prize and Shortlisted for Next Stage

Our project, e[X]Sport City has been awarded Second Prize for the International Ideas Competition for Urban Regeneration of the Jamsil Sports Complex in Seoul. Our team (de.Sign and Seiyong Kim (Seoul)) is shortlisted for the next stage of the competition. More soon...
e[X]Sport City | Seoul by de.Sign and Collaborators (de.Sign in collaboration with Seiyong Kim (Seoul).

When less is more: Architects are breaking walls to make apartments roomier. From collapsible furniture to sliding doors, architects are breaking walls to make apartments roomier.

Manhattan Loft by de.Sign featured in the EYE Magazine of the Indian Express

Manhattan Loft by de.Sign

Written by Shiny Varghese | New Delhi | Published on:June 14, 2015 1:00 am  READ MORE......

     Manhattan Loft by de.Sign
The industrial monotone theme is taken forward in a Manhattan loft by architect Viren Brahmbhatt, principal architect, de.Sign Studio, which has offices in New York and Mumbai. On the top floor of a six-storey apartment, this almost century-old building overlooks the Hudson river. When Brahmbhatt arrived, he found a two-bedroom corner unit with the conventional layout of a bath and kitchen with a long corridor that connected the rooms. The floor was uneven and saggy. He soon figured out that the building’s bones were in good shape. It could become a charming space with the old sitting hand-in-hand with new aesthetics. After bolstering the ceiling and the floor, existing walls were removed. Brahmbhatt wanted a large fluid space for the graphic designer/advertising professional who lives and works here. “The layout was transformed into what I call FlexSpace, to generate a seamless spatial experience and create a loft-like space,” says the architect.

     Manhattan Loft by de.Sign

He brought in sliding glass walls, and a Murphy bed, which holds a glass enclosed bar. By leaving the walls bare and white and keeping the finishes sparse, he rid the house of visual clutter. Much of the storage is built-in while closet doors with mirrors work to reflect the entire loft and views of the river. “We decided to retain the existing structural wood beams in the ceiling and the stripped brick walls to dramatise and juxtapose the rustic with the modern. The lines of the ceiling beams alter the perception of depth, constantly flattening and elevating the sense of space,” he says. A found object in the house was the dumb waiter, which has now been enclosed in frameless glass, opening up an old, existing skylight that filters in natural light. That the loft can be divided into various spaces when required allows the client to alter its use.

    Manhattan Loft by de.Sign

     Manhattan Loft by de.Sign

…continued »

Leveraging Exchange | de.Sign Update

de.Sign is selected for a project on a 50-Acre site for International Medical Sciences Research & Exchange near Mumbai, India. The program will include adjacent parcels for urban agriculture and productive landscape, redesigning urban lands for the local Agriculture University that will share resources with the new Medical Research campus.
More soon...

de.Sign Update | FloatSpace

Check out our recently completed project on our newly designed, revamped and updated website: 

Project Link: FloatSpace

Website: www.deDotSign.com

REIMAGINING LUTYENS' DELHI

REIMAGINING LUTYENS' DELHI
January 2015; Edited by Viren Brahmbhatt et al.
A PUBLICATION BASED ON GSAPP SPRING 2014 STUDIO | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY

Reimagining Lutyens' Delhi is based on the studies on Lutyens' Plan for Imperial Delhi, by the Urban Design Studio, Spring 2014 (Master of Science in Architecture and Urban Design), Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation, Columbia University in The City of New York. 

Abstract

The subject of the Studio was a comparative urban dialogue between New Delhi, Kisumu, and Medellín. Like dynamic cities everywhere, they share concerns about the form of their continuing expansion and the consequent mandates for compact growth. This dialogue is of particular interest given the diversity of character and context of each, within the broad context of development in the "Global South." The New Delhi mandate involves densification of the Lutyens' Plan for the original colonial city, long considered an international landmark in early 20th century urban design. In question is the evolution of this culturally significant and highly formalized hallmark from its ceremonial significance as new Capitol of India to expanded meaning as center of a new commercial metropolis. For each of the three cities, detailed study sites were carefully chosen as particular "fragments" that could serve as windows through which to view the larger question of their respective development modes, and to comparatively explore "saturation" levels of density within the respective urban contexts.

REIMAGINING LUTYENS’ DELHI examines the present day situation of the landmark historic plan for the new capital of India by the British architect Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944), completed in 1931. The original plan has been considerably modified in ad hoc fashion over the past two decades due to real estate pressures related to the large growth of the city and region during this period. Yet much remains of enduring value within the plan such that consideration of preservation measures is crucial, while recognizing that Lutyens’ composition has entered an era of transformation. The four “provocations” presented in the exhibition aspire to address the contradictions between preservation and development. Developed by post-professional students, faculty, and experts at Columbia University in collaboration with local partners in Delhi, each urban design proposal examines a typical condition between the center and periphery of Lutyens’ Delhi. They are the Bungalow Zone; the Janpath; the remnants of Baoli, Hauz, and Nullah; and the adjacent Kidwai Nagar neighborhood. They are proposed with the hope of making a positive contribution to the debate on the future of the past for this world landmark in urban design.  

The exhibition and publication are made possible by the generous support from Steelcase Asia Pacific Holdings, India.

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