Once again, the Vessel, a striking 150-foot honeycomb-like structure in New York City, is open to the public, now adorned with a steel netting. Designed by Heatherwick Studio, this architectural marvel has sparked debate since its unveiling in March 2019. Its unconventional, ‘alien’ design has drawn a spectrum of opinions, with some likening it to an Escher painting due to its dizzying array of stairs, while others humorously compare it to an oversized shawarma. Thomas Heatherwick envisioned the Vessel as a public climbing experience, encouraging visitors to conquer over 2,500 steps for a dynamic, spiraling view of the cityscape.
In a short film released at the project’s launch (watch the video here), Heatherwick referred to it as an amphitheater for the masses, drawing inspiration from the intricate stepwells of India, known for their labyrinthine stairways. Despite the mixed reviews from locals, the elaborate network of staircases and landings quickly became a sought-after attraction in the burgeoning neighborhood.
However, the reasons behind the Vessel’s previous closures were far from aesthetic. Tragically, four young individuals under the age of twenty-five took their lives from the structure during its brief existence. In response, Hudson Yards developer Related Companies has taken proactive measures, installing physical safety barriers—a community-requested initiative. According to a spokesperson, these barriers consist of ‘cut-resistant’ steel-mesh nets on various twisting stairways and platforms, while access to the top level has been restricted. Architectural photographer Paul Clemence has ascended the honeycomb structure to document the views from within this newly secured landmark.
Photographer Paul Clemence shares his thoughts on the new safety net, expressing his intrigue about its real-life appearance and its impact on the overall design. “The net is quite understated, and its visibility really shifts with the lighting,” he notes. However, he feels that the supporting structure somewhat disrupts the aesthetic. While not every part of the Vessel is covered by the net, the sections that lack it have been rendered off-limits to the public. It’s unfortunate, but at least this measure allows visitors to experience the Vessel in a safer manner.
The Vessel, designed by Heatherwick Studio, faced significant safety issues in New York prior to the installation of its steel net. Following a tragic series of events, including three suicides within a year, the structure was closed in January 2021. It reopened in May 2021 with new protocols aimed at preventing self-harm, which included restricting access to pairs or groups. Despite extensive consultations, developers opted not to raise the height of the barriers. Unfortunately, a teenager visiting with family became the fourth victim, leading to another closure in August 2021. Finally, the landmark welcomed visitors again on October 21, 2024.
The reopening of the Vessel has sparked a variety of responses. Some are optimistic that the new safety features will create a secure and enjoyable environment for all. Others, however, question the morality of reopening a site linked to such tragic events.
Jessica Chait, chair of the Manhattan community board, remarked, “While we believe it took Related four lives too many to implement these changes, these adjustments are what we requested to ensure the safety of everyone visiting the Vessel.”
Certainly, the Vessel is not an isolated case. It’s crucial to acknowledge that suicide can happen anywhere. This landmark is merely one instance of a location with a significant height that has seen such tragedies. Bridges and skyscrapers are also sadly frequent sites, often remaining accessible to the public. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 1,660 individuals took their own lives in New York State in 2021.