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

The design prioritized the use of locally available, salvaged materials, including bricks and timber beams sourced from nearby neighborhood demolition projects. Two prominent entry gardens feature native plantings, newly planted trees, and garden paths constructed from reclaimed brick, creating inviting thresholds into the park.

Toward the rear of the site, a gently sloping lawn offers a quiet refuge and flexible gathering space, framed by amphitheater-style seating built from reclaimed timber beams. This area is designed to support community programming, including outdoor events and film screenings. Throughout the park, new accessible paving improves circulation, while expanded native gardens enhance stormwater capture and support urban biodiversity.

Earthwork, material salvage, finishing and hardscaping by Field Form. Planting by community volunteers, with special thanks to the Gowanus Canal Conservancy Lowlands Nursery for plant donations. Photography by Barrett Doherty.