New York-based firm Selldorf Architects recently completed a striking pair of skyscrapers in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, clad in iridescent porcelain tiles. The project, named One Domino Square, features a 55-story residential tower and a 39-story tower sited to overlook the Williamsburg Bridge and the just opened Domino Sugar Refinery. 

Two comparable-height towers – condo tower shorter, the slightly taller south tower of rental apartments – stand on a six-story triangular podium located in prime location on Domino Park, an outdoor space designed by Field Operations. Third-party amenities take up the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors, including an indoor pool, sauna, cold plunge, and an outdoor pool deck, which looks out over the Williamsburg Bridge. 

By the time Selldorf Architects took over the project, the towers’ massing had already been established and the master plan for the building was developed by SHoP Architects and Two Trees Management. “By the time we became involved, the concept of the two towers on the podium was already established so the heights and dimensions were mostly preordained,” says Oliver Link. The towers have been cladded with porcelain tiles, creating a stunning “pearl-like” appearance. “This material has a beautiful shimmer and changes all day long and through the seasons,” said Link, pointing out its reflective quality that contrasts elegantly with the light grey granite cladding of the podium. 

The shift focused on sustainability, reducing concrete use and raising the lower levels out of the flood zone of the East River. Adding bike parking and grey water irrigation to an already very tight set of environmental criteria. 

Link is enthusiastic about the unique positioning of the site and the overall development, with a newly formalized river front. Link further added “This project brings all kind of elements of the riverfront in a beautiful way.” 

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