Common Build

Ongoing

Los Círculos

On view October 1, 2025–July 2026.

Winner of the 2025 Beacon Award of Excellence for Lighting Design of an Experiential Project!

Los Círculos is inspired by how people form circles for dancing, celebration, and gathering. This multi-site lighting installation aims to increase a sense of joy, unity, and belonging in Washington Heights. Los Círculos is designed by Marvel and produced by Community League of the Heights (CLOTH) and Van Alen Institute, in collaboration with a coalition of neighborhood organizations and design experts.

Los Círculos illuminates two locations in Washington Heights:

• Plaza de las Americas, located at 175th Street and Broadway, directly in front of Washington Heights’ landmarked theater United Place — through NYC DOT Art Partners, a collaboration with the NYC Department of Transportation’s Art Program, NYC DOT Art
• David Friedland Square (also known as Duarte Triangle), a small public park located at 170th Street and Broadway — through the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation’s Art in the Parks Program

Soft illumination from two large undulating circles transforms these spaces, creating an inviting space for interaction while increasing visibility at night. The piece harnesses the kinetic energy of the neighborhood, embodying a sense of movement within the design. Los Círculos emphasizes the significance of public space and its critical role in the social and cultural life of the Washington Heights community.

Made with LED lights and aluminum, Los Círculos has a lightweight design and minimal footprint, ensuring uninterrupted access to these public spaces and their ongoing events, such as the seasonal GrowNYC farmers market at Plaza de las Americas.

This project was funded by the NYC Department of Small Business Services (NYC SBS) through the Public Realm Grant and, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.