Independent Project Residency


The Independent Project Residency, inaugurated in 2022, invites design practitioners to bring their own interests and projects to the Block House on Governors Island.

Fellows are among the first to stay overnight on the Island since the Coast Guard’s exit in 1996 and are immersed in the culture of various arts organizations occupying the Island’s historic structures. Fellows present the progress of their work to the public at Open [Block] House events and participate in Dinner Parties and other cohort activities. The Residency concludes with an exhibit and public presentation of the Fellows’ Work.

Residency opportunities are announced through an open call, with applications evaluated by an Independent Selection Committee.



Past Residencies




2023 Fall Residency:
Independent Projects


This nine-week Residency brought five Fellows to the Block House. Fellows represented a range of disciplines including art, architecture, urban design, environmental design, and socially engaged practice.

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2023 Summer Residency: Independent Projects


Six Fellows lived and worked at the Block House for a period of 11 weeks. Fellows represented a range of disciplines including art, architecture, urban design, illustration and history & design education. Fellows participated in a series of public events, a workshop and a series of cohort activities throughout the Summer.

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2022 Summer Residency: Independent Projects


The inaugural Block House Residency had four Fellows living and working on Governors Island. Fellows worked on independent projects and participated in a series of Open [Block] House events throughout the summer to share their work with the public, culminating in a final presentation and public exhibition.

︎︎︎ Learn More


Institute for Public Architecture

45 E 20th Street Suite 500
New York, NY 10003

9 Nolan Park
Governors Island, NY