The Battery Field House, located within the historic Battery’s 25 acres of public parkland at the southern tip of Manhattan, marks a critical final step in realizing the vision of beauty and innovation that has transformed The Battery under the leadership of Warrie Price. Designed within a horticultural framework by Piet Oudolf, the Field House supports the Playscape, enhances visitor services at the SeaGlass Carousel, and provides essential facilities for park staff and guests.

Commissioned by The Battery Conservancy (TBC) in partnership with NYC Parks and designed by WXY architecture + urban design, the project repurposes the existing structure, wrapping it in a living screen that enhances accessibility, resiliency, and functionality.

Thoughtfully integrated into the surrounding landscape, the Field House complements the SeaGlass Carousel and Oudolf’s gardens. The renovated facility houses offices for NYC Parks and The Battery Conservancy alongside upgraded staff amenities, including lockers and restrooms. A key enhancement is the addition of ADA-compliant family restrooms designed to serve children and caregivers at the Playscape. These include two fully accessible family restrooms with child-friendly fixtures, such as lowered sinks and appropriately scaled stalls. The design replaces the storage container with a dedicated ticket window, break room, and storage area, improving visitor services and supporting SeaGlass Carousel operations. Exterior sinks outside the restroom facilities reinforce a welcoming environment while accommodating high visitor traffic.

Continuing WXY’s long-standing collaboration on projects within The Battery, the Battery Field House balances practical needs with architectural sensitivity, strengthening park infrastructure while ensuring a resilient, accessible, well-integrated facility. WXY developed the project in collaboration with Starr Whitehouse, Plus Group, and McLaren.