Outdoor Creative Spaces

Inspiration is everywhere, we as people make the conscious decision to acknowledge a spark whilst stepping foot somewhere that takes your breath away. I want to share with you my small collection of what I like to call "My Happy Places", now your potential creative spaces. 

1. WNYC Transmitter Park
2. Gantry Plaza State Park
3. The Edge Park
4. FDR Four Freedoms Park

WNYC Transmitter Park

Location: Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Nearest Transit: Greenpoint Ave. | G Train

Description: This small park is on the smaller side, but holds a special place in my heart. The view is absolutely breathtaking, including a long twisting pier that juts out into the middle of the East River. Since the park is more quaint than others in the city, it also feels much more secluded. There is never too much traffic, especially towards the evening. Although there isn't much seating, one can still sit down on the pier itself with notebook in hand. 

Gantry Plaza State Park

Location: Long Island City, Queens

Nearest Transit: Vernon-Jackson Blvd. | 7 Train

Description: Being a state park, this environment is quite expansive and in turn provides many spaces for people to get active as well as creative. Spanning 12 acres, the options are plenty whilst choosing where to call home for a few hours of creative brainstorming. A gorgeous view of Manhattan coupled with a beautiful promenade alongside many picnic tables and benches allows for room to roam. 

The Edge Park

Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Nearest Transit: Bedford Ave. | L Train

Description: Located in trendy Williamsburg, this park and promenade will knock your socks off. Not only is the surrounding area full of quaint cafes and quiet eateries, the promenade itself provides a solace among the hustle and bustle of its inhabitants. 

FDR Four Freedoms Park

Location: Roosevelt Island, New York

Nearest Transit: Roosevelt Island | F Train

Description: Nestled in between Eastern Manhattan and Queens is lovely little Roosevelt Island - a place that is undoubtably underestimated for its semi-secluded beauty. This place caught my eye about two years ago while sitting on a dock on 50th street above the FDR highway - across the East River sat a mysterious lit up building in ruins. After retreating to that particular dock a few times, my intrigue with the ghostly sight got the best of me so I decided to trek to the island on which it stood. I learned that the building had actually been a Smallpox Hospital and it out part of FDR Four Freedoms Park located at the southernmost tip of Roosevelt Island. This part of the Island also is home to beautiful small rolling hills and plenty of space to get inspired.

Although this list is short, I challenge you to create your own. When it comes to outdoor spaces, it is difficult to find ones that are a balance of fun and focus. It’s summer - act like it people!

P. S. 

Inspired by Distraction

As I have been on the search for creative spaces and places, I have also spent a fair amount of time researching the concept of creativity and its driving factors. The focus of this blog is not only productive work spaces and their atmosphere, I am also intrigued by the many ways that each individual mind navigates finding their creative drive. Although I believe that environment is vastly influential on a person's existence, creativity is a wildly methodical beast. So as any millennial would do, I turned to the expansive world of Google, where I stumbled upon my unavoidable friend Wikipedia who had a few intriguing opinions on this whole creativity thing. Here's what Wiki had to say about Creative Techniques and their Affecting Factors;

Affecting factors

Distraction

A study has found that non-demanding distractions can improve the number of uses that subjects can come up with for an object ("unusual uses task").^[8]

Walking

In 2014, a study found that walking increased creativity,^[9] an activity favored by Albert Einstein.

Sleep and relaxation

Some advocate enhancing creativity by taking advantage of hypnagogia, the transition from wakefulness to sleep, using techniques such as lucid dreaming. One technique used by Salvador Dalí was to drift off to sleep in an armchair with a set of keys in his hand; when he fell completely asleep, the keys would fall and wake him up, allowing him to recall his mind's subconscious imaginings.^[10] Thomas Edison used the same technique, with ball bearings.^[11]

Meditation

A study^[12] from 2014 conducted by researchers in China and the US, including the psychologist Michael Posner found that performing a short 30 minute meditation session each day, for seven days, was sufficient to improve verbal and visual creativity, as measured by the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking, due to the positive effects of meditation on emotional regulation. The same researchers^[13] also showed in 2015 that short term meditation training could also improve insight-based problem solving (the type commonly associated with an "Ah-ha", or "eureka" type moment of realization) as measured by the Remote Associates Test.

As I have discussed in previous posts, there are many factors that influence the ambiance of a space making it a creative haven, one of which being the sound of a space. Ambient noise in some cases causes distraction, a topic that our friend Wikipedia decided to touch upon much too briefly, so I had a few things to add based on my own extensive research--turns out its not that hard speak my mind to a computer screen. Here's my two cents...or paragraphs;

Affecting factors

Distraction

Multiple studies have confirmed that distraction actually increases creative cognition.^[8] One such study done by Jonathan Schooler found that non-demanding distractions improve performance on a classic creativity task called the UUT (Unusual Uses Task) in which the subject must come up with as many possible uses for a common object. The results confirmed that decision-related neural processes occur during moments of unconscious thought while a person engages in a non-demanding task. The research showed that while distracted a subject isn’t maintaining one thought for a particularly long time, which in turn allows different ideas to float in and out of one’s consciousness—this sort of associative process leads to creative incubation. ^[9]

Ambient noise is another variable that is conducive to distraction, yet it has been proven that a moderate level of noise actually heighten creativity. Professor Ravi Mehta conducted a study to research the degree of distraction induced by various noise levels and their effect on creativity. The series of experiments show that a moderate level of ambient noise (70 dB) produces just enough distraction to induce processing disfluency, which leads to abstract cognition. These higher construal levels caused by moderate levels of noise consequently enhance creativity.^[10]

As a wise man once said; "Brevity is the soul of wit", so for the sake of Shakespeare I didn't include the three subtopics following the one I edited. Here is the link instead: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creativity_techniques

Go distract yourself with the two studies I mentioned in my Wiki-edit, they're mega-cool!

P. S.

Chalk Point Concentration

The SoHo District of Manhattan boasts high-end boutiques as well as an abundance of chic eateries and in recent years has become home to a number of art galleries and studios. Hidden away on the corner of Broome and Thompson Street is a market-to-table gem, a restaurant whose heart is at the cross-section of fashion, art and food.

Chalk Point Kitchen, located at 527 Broome St. is not your typical trendy restaurant, it's mindfully trendy—if you will. Spearheaded by restauranteur Matt Levine and Michelin Star executive chef Joe Isidori, CPK opened its doors in April 2014 as one of the few market-to-table restaurants in New York City having not some, but ALL of its ingredients locally sourced in New York state. Since opening the local SoHo eatery has been featured in multiple publications including; Vogue, Interview and Vanity Fair putting this low-key spot on the art and fashion map almost instantly. Not only is Chalk Point a restaurant, but the basement of the space is a hidden away speakeasy piano bar with mixologists that will knock your socks off and the decor is reminiscent of stepping right into the Prohibition Era, except with modern fashion photography gracing the staircase and walls.

Knowing all too well that this spot is a favorite among New Yorkers, dinner and brunch are always hustling and bustling with an energy that is palpable. So I opted to pay them a visit during a weekday lunch, already knowing that I adore the atmosphere of the space. The entrance of this downtown staple speaks for itself being adorned with hundred of polaroid photos of its patrons, in just a short three years Chalk Point Kitchen has cultivated a culture and history all its own. The space itself is quaint, being barely 70 seats it provides a more personal environment complimented by an open air kitchen right behind the bar. With light pouring through the room, I was seated at an adorable white-washed corner table in a booth accessorized with Keith Haring art plates and red gingham napkins. With a menu that changes almost every month, its commendable to see a restaurant so keen on innovation and change—which also expands into their involvement by being part of and hosting events that work towards great causes including hosting a food pantry and raising money to build homeless shelters.  So much yes, just all around, cheers to CPK.

Coming in pen and paper in hand on a Monday around noon was a marvelous idea, the restaurant had just ended their lunch rush and things were winding down into a comfortable buzz of 80's light rock and quiet conversation. The wait staff was absolutely wonderful, my server Cesar was a superstar in more ways that one. Not only was he superbly  knowledgable about the menu, he is also an aspiring Broadway dancer with such a wonderfully inspirational energy. The summer lunch menu boasted a number of both vegan and vegetarian options, don't worry you can add chicken, shrimp, salmon or steak to just about everything outside the Acai Bowl—unless that's what you're into. I ended up going for the Heart Healthy Avocado Toast (because avocado, obviously) and the Vitamin Powerhouse Chicken Bowl, both of which were well balanced, very fresh and simply delicious. It is obvious how much heart is put into every aspect of the restaurants atmosphere, its homey and comfortable with a heaping handful of happy.

Grab a book and go hangout at Chalk Point Kitchen and then you'll understand what you've been missing!

P. S.

Fostering Focus

As an artist, the thirst for creative expression is ever-present. As a student with a full-time job, bringing conception to reality sits at center gravity on a delicate scale of inspiration and motivation. Creativity is believed to be spontaneous by nature, yet the creative process is in itself a convoluted mechanism that is not unilaterally defined. The intricacies of the individual mind are manifold, thus divergent minds need different spaces in order to flourish. Visual atmospheres are a key component of fostering focus in physical spaces.

Personal identity is the driving factor for choosing an environment that encourages productivity and creativity. Some prefer being tucked away behind library corners and hidden by books in solitude and silence, others find inspiration sitting outdoors while immersing themselves in the noise and chaos of the city; individual predilections are bound to vary. I believe there is one specific factor that provides physical spaces the ability to influence creative performance and enhance ideation—ambiance, an interplay between the interior design, lighting and sound of a space. When I search for a location to make my creative home for a good couple hours, there are a few key elements that in my opinion create a perfect atmosphere. 

First, I'd like to touch upon lighting, both natural and artificial lighting must be taken into consideration. Natural lighting is proven to improve mood and alertness, the more windows a space has the better it is for your concentration. Now if you're more of a night owl (like myself) the interior lighting is crucial. In my opinion dimmer lighting works to my favor in that it makes the space feel more comfortable thus allowing me to delve into my creative consciousness. The important aspect of a dimly lit environment is that the lighting should be warm yet still bright enough to be able to read a book or scribble in a notebook, think vintage mahogany reading room. A recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology by two German psychologists, Anna Steidle and Lioba Werthh, examined the effect of light and darkness on creative performance. The investigation determined that physical environment can in fact facilitate or impede the generation of new and creative ideas. The results revealed that darkness increases freedom from constraints, which in turn promotes creativity.

Next, we have the sound of a space which encompasses both music and the level of conversational background noise. Some individuals prefer silence in order to concentrate—to each their own, but a bit of sound is actually proven to be effective as well. A low to moderate level of ambient noise activates abstract cognition because it induces processing difficulty and consequently enhances creative performance. Conversely, a high level of noise impairs information processing, thus an equilibrium must be attained. If your local coffee shop is paying pop punk from the 2000's I'd say steer clear if you're looking to accomplish any task. Personally, I find playlists including a mix of classic music and acoustic soundtracks very stimulating in that they provide a sense of calm as opposed to silence which promotes self-consciousness. A low hum of conversation also works towards the space being creatively positive in that those around you are engaging in purposeful small talk, but that also brings about the crucial aspect of the type of staff and clientele—both of which should be unobtrusive.

To come full circle, I'd like to briefly touch upon the aestheticism of the physical space. Interior design lends itself to the overall atmosphere projected by an environment, which is a vital part of an establishment's socio-cultural identity that determines what kind of patrons the space attracts. I'll start with the basics, i.e., work space and seating, comfortable desk-height tables and chairs are ideal, but couches and coffee tables are also helpful—depending on the task at hand. Next comes decor, I personally prefer spaces that provide food for thought through their design, books and art adorning the shelves and walls being on the top of that list, complimented by a neutral color scheme.

The cohesive structure of a physical environment is a factor that many individuals don't take into consideration, yet there is a method to the madness. Everyone is different, but I truly believe that ambiance is everything when it comes to physical environments that foster focus, productivity and creativity.

P. S.

Ace Is The Place

While in college or working a demanding job, many New Yorkers don't have the luxury of having a workspace that promotes productivity. Being both a student and a working full time, my schedule pleads for a solace of sorts. Libraries have gotten stale over the years and Starbucks just doesn't cut it anymore. After losing the concentration game time and time again, I began my mission to find a space where my mind could let go of anxiety and my thoughts could finally find clarity again. So where does an inconspicuous silent meeting of the minds occur on a daily basis—The Ace Hotel, its lobby to be exact. The space is decorated with a melange of furniture and people alike, the atmosphere is quintessentially quirky with just enough ambiance to foster a sense of belonging without uttering a whisper to the millennial typing away on their Macbook two chairs to your left. 

The Ace Hotel sits on the corner of Broadway and 29th Street in midtown Manhattan, the building, erected in 1904, still stands as a commanding piece of architecture in what was to become an avenue of hotels. Originally The Breslin Hotel, the 344 room property was one of the most renowned residence hotels in the early 20th century. In 2008 the Ace Hotel Group bought out The Breslin's existing lease and in 2010 the architectural firm Roman & Williams completed what is now a property that layers both the old and new and draws business professionals and creatives alike. The lobby's communal workspace is a mix of the old and the new, with library style tables and velvety red couches, the dimly lit space boasts high ceilings and a jazzy soundtrack, all aspects being held together with the low hum of unobtrusive conversation. Those visiting the Ace in need of some inspiration can immerse themselves in the creative essence of the lobby's atmosphere, which is accented by books and paintings and brought to life through the unique clientele.

The Ace also offers an array of food and beverage choices including, Stumptown Coffee Roasters, The Breslin Bar & Dining Room, John Dory Oyster Bar and No. 7 Sub, all accessible without giving up your seat at the table next to an outlet. You can spend hours at The Ace without missing a beat and if you're productive enough maybe your night will end in a dance party. I'm not kidding, the Ace hosts "Lobby Nights" which feature a different DJ every Wednesday and Saturday night at 10:00 p.m. where the lobby itself turns down the lights and turns up the funk. 

As you leave the lobby, look to your left and painted above the front desk there is a phrase that just might keep you coming back for more: Excelsior—ever upwards.

P. S.

Slowly Drifting in NYC

My name is Paulina and I am a creative. Like many others, I came to New York City in the hopes of finding myself and my creative identity, yet over the years I have come to realize that amidst my chaotic soul searching I had ended up losing myself instead. Throughout the five years I have called this city home, I constantly find myself being pushed to figure out what sort of environment fosters my creativity, be that writing or sketching. I invite you to join me on the search for people and places that drive creative inertia.

It's 9 a.m. I'm the first one here. Bedford Street as the city awakens. My table, flanked by the coffee machine and the front window, affords me a sense of privacy, where I withdraw into my own atmosphere...The small café feels chilly. So why are the fans turning? Maybe if I stare at them long enough my mind will turn as well. It's not so easy writing about nothing. -Patti Smith, M Train

Patti Smith and I share two specific things, our conveniently literarily relevant initials P.S. (post script) and our passion for stream-of-consciousness writing. It's a beautiful thing to have the ability to exist in a current moment both mentally and physically, but with our lives moving a million miles a minute it is often difficult to find a space that fosters presence. Smith effortlessly describes her current state of being—simple and honest, yet striking. Even in her admittance of feeling uninspired, she refers to her environment to find a spark of inspiration. This blog is an homage to the daydreamers, the artists, the writers, looking for moments in a city of divine chaos. 

My head is still in the clouds, I'm just trying to keep my feet on the ground. Whenever I feel lost I always remind myself that; right here, right now, I am here and nowhere else. 

Let's make moments.

P. S.