Monday, July 27, 2009

The High Line

A fabulous public park found in the Chelsea and Meatpacking districts of New York City, The High Line, is open for strolling.The High Line is a wonderful garden path that has grown up on a decommissioned elevated rail road track, which was saved by community groups and the city.Visitors climb up newly renovated and created access stairs, to the walking path, at 20th street and Tenth Avenue, or 16th street for persons who require an elevator.The design of this city phenomenon was the creation of the James Corner Field Operations, with consultation from planting designer Piet Oudolf. Plantings are positioned between and around rail road ties and concrete staves.Grasses are coupled with perennials such as Cone Flowers, Sedum, Astilbe, Joe Pie Weed, Hydrangeas, Rudbekia, perennial Geranium, Mallow, Butterfly Weed, many species of ornamental shrubs, and flowering plants. The design was inspired by original volunteer green growth, that seeded in over the 25 years during which trains stopped running.Many of the plants are varieties that are slightly different from the usual stock shown in most gardens. The are multi petaled, taller, a different hue, or completely new to most gardeners.The tracks, gravel, plantings, and the views from above, are just the beginning of the High Line experience.

3 comments:

Elizabeth said...

This is a super introduction to those who haven't yet had the chance to go there!
I had a splendid day as I hope you both did too!
Excellent photos.

Willow said...

I have been reading about The High Line on several blogs and wasn't sure what it was, exactly. Thank you for the explanation and tour! What a great place! I wonder what it will be like in the winter.

Danielle Filas said...

Hi! I love this pic! In fact, I'm directing a play here in Columbus, OH and would like to know if I can project this image during our production. We'd be happy to credit you and your blog in our program. Would that be ok?
You can respond here or via email at bookdanielle(at)gmail(dot)com
Thanks for considering it!