FOUNTAIN
MADISON SQUARE PARK
MADISON SQUARE PARK
NEW YORK, NY
NEW YORK, NY
FRISENDA ARCHITECTS
FRISENDA ARCHITECTS
CONCEPT
CONCEPT
The Narcissus Fountain is a temporary public installation inspired by the Greek myth of Narcissus, exploring themes of self-reflection, vanity, and the relationship between water and identity. Situated in the heart of Manhattan, this pavilion serves as a contemplative experience, inviting visitors to engage with their own reflections while considering the ephemeral nature of beauty and the dangers of self-obsession.
At the heart of the pavilion lies the existing reflective pool of Madison Square Park, its surface acting as a mirror that draws visitors into a dialogue with their own image. The water symbolizes both the fluidity of identity and the mythological setting where Narcissus first gazed upon his reflection. This tranquil water feature, surrounded by a circular, semi-enclosed structure, beckons passersby to approach and pause, encouraging personal introspection.
On a personal level, this site holds deep meaning for me [Anthony]. I proposed to my wife right at the center of the pool’s basin—when it was free of water!—and ever since, the park has remained a grounding presence in my daily life. Each morning, I walk to the park to center myself before the day begins. I always find my way to the same bench in front of the reflecting pool, watching as people pass by— each day a little different, yet somehow the same.
Madison Square Park has a long history of showcasing thought-provoking public art installations, becoming a vital part of New York City’s cultural landscape. Over the years, the park has hosted numerous contemporary works, from sculptures to interactive pieces, engaging both locals and visitors. The existing reflecting pool in the park makes it an especially fitting location for the Narcissus Fountain, as its calm waters would beautifully mirror the installation’s themes of self-reflection and the myth of Narcissus. The tranquil setting, combined with the park’s legacy of public art, offers the perfect backdrop for an immersive, contemplative experience.
EXISTING REFLECTION POOL
NARCISSUS FOUNTAIN AERIAL VIEW
PROPOSALPROPOSAL
Our proposal is a free-standing pavilion that engages in a thoughtful dialogue with the existing reflecting pool, emphasizing its presence through reflection and contrast. The structure is designed to distort perception and offer an ever-changing visual experience, achieved through the interplay of curved mirrored surfaces and a cascading curtain of water.
From the exterior, the pavilion appears to be suspended behind the veil of falling water, giving the illusion that it is supported solely by the water itself.
At scheduled intervals, the water curtain parts at designated bridges, inviting visitors to step through and explore the interior. The combination of mirrored surfaces and flowing water continuously reshapes the spatial experience, blurring the boundary between reality and reflection.
Inside, visitors are enveloped in a quiet, introspective space—visually and acoustically separated from the outside world. The only connection to the surroundings is a large oculus that opens to the sky and frames the nearby builings and trees.
As visitors move through the space, their reflections become distorted, fragmented, or multiplied by the angles of the mirrors, challenging the idea of a singular, fixed identity. This interplay of reflections emphasizes the concept of vanity — the desire for a perfect image that is always just out of reach.
PROPOSAL
OVERALL ELEVATION
How do you see yourself?
Does anyone care what I look like?
What do you see in the mirror?
Can a reflection lie?
Is perception a mirror, or a mask?
Can I trust what I perceive?
Do others see the same person I do?
Why am I drawn to my own image?
Is this beauty, or illusion?
What does the mirror hide?
Is this really me?................................
ASSEMBLY ASSEMBLY
EXPLODED AXON
REFLECTION POOL ROOF
MIRRORED BORDER
STRUCTURAL SPACE FRAME
MIRRORED CEILING
MIRRORED COLUMNS
CENTRAL SEATING AREA
CONCRETE BRIDGES
EXISTING STONE BORDERS
EXISTING REFLECTING POOL
HELICAL PIER FOUNDATIONS
PERSPECTIVE SECTION
CONSTRUCTION DETAILS CONSTRUCTION DETAILS
The fountain’s construction is thoughtfully engineered to minimize its impact on the site. It touches the ground at only six points, supported by columns anchored with helical piers—eliminating the need for bulky, invasive concrete foundations. These columns serve a dual function, also concealing the internal piping system that draws water from the lower reflecting pool and circulates it to form a continuous curtain around the installation’s perimeter. A large cantilevered surface is supported by a lightweight space frame, clad in polished metal panels with a mirrored finish. Within the fountain’s inner ring lies a pump system that controls water flow, allowing for dynamic adjustments and timed access to the center space.
DETAILED SECTION
INTERIOR VIEW
EXTERIOR VIEW FACING SOUTH
EXTERIOR
TEAM
PROJECT TIMELINE
TEAM PROFILE
Architectural Excellence Across Continents
With offices in New York City and Buenos Aires, Frisenda Architects is a dynamic and innovative architectural firm recognized for its expertise in designing large-scale, high-impact projects that shape cities, industries, and communities. Our work spans a wide range of building types and programs, from cultural institutions and mixeduse developments to commercial hubs and residential complexes. By blending creative vision with technical expertise, we craft spaces that are not only functional but also resonate with their surroundings and users.
Our Philosophy
At Frisenda Architects, we believe architecture is a powerful tool for improving the human experience. Our approach combines rigorous analysis with bold, forward-thinking design to create environments that foster connection, sustainability, and innovation. We embrace a collaborative process, engaging with clients, stakeholders, and communities to ensure that each project is tailored to its specific context, purpose, and aspirations.
Anthony Frisenda is a licensed architect from the Hudson Valley, NY. After earning his Bachelor of Architecture from Pratt Institute, he worked for several large architecture firms in New York City, including Rafael Vinoly, Biber Architects and HLW.
As the founder of Frisenda Architects, Anthony’s design philosophy begins with personal connections. Reflecting the ideals and values of the person or entity occupying the space. This results in a highly unique design catered to the personality of its occupants.
Tomás Renzulli brings creative solutions and technical expertise to the architectural designs of our firm. Based in Buenos Aires, his unique perspective and experiences add to the firm’s global approach to design. After working at ODA Architecture, he joined Frisenda Architects in 2023. His commitment to excellence for every project results in a seamless experience for our clients.
