In 2021, Assemblage collaborated with Dolly’s Park Board and NYC GreenThumb to reimagine Dolly’s Park as a greener, more accessible community space in Gowanus. The project transformed an underutilized gravel lot into a welcoming landscape that supports gathering, ecological restoration, and everyday use.

The design prioritized the use of locally available, salvaged materials, including bricks and timber beams sourced from nearby neighborhood demolition sites.

At the park entrance, two prominent entry gardens enhance stormwater capture and support urban biodiversity. The gardens feature new accessible paving, native plantings, newly planted trees, and garden paths constructed from reclaimed brick, creating inviting thresholds into the park.

At the rear of the park, a gently sloping lawn provides both a quiet retreat and a flexible gathering space. Amphitheater-style seating, crafted from reclaimed timber beams, accommodates community programming such as outdoor events and film screenings.

Earthwork, material salvage, and hardscape installation by Field Form. Planting by community volunteers with plant donations from Gowanus Canal Conservancy. Photography by Barrett Doherty.