BUILD NYC, an installation of interactive building stations
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BUILD NYC is an installation of interactive building stations with playful materials and design challenges that expose people to diverse works of architecture, engineering and construction. Designed for New Yorkers of all ages and always free, elements include:
- LEGO, Magna-Tiles, Imagination Playground blocks, connect-able straws, and other materials for building;
- printed cards with activities conceived by architects and educators;
- books on architecture and engineering;
- custom-designed tables for building together, and eight benches for seating;
- staff to set up and run the program (one program staff member and one manager);
- an option for hosts, professionals from related fields, and other organizations to participate by adding special activities.
Here’s what happens: materials are colorful and attract people over. People gather around and begin building. Some try prompts and daily challenges. Others are inspired by what they see in books, by what others are building, or by the streetscape. Many create their own designs, to which others then contribute. People build alone or together, some for just a few minutes, others for much longer. People love the experience of building with their hands and playing with these materials. This program has served New Yorkers since 2018.
Help us bring BUILD NYC to more neighborhoods!
BUILD NYC is traveling across New York City with a special focus on underserved neighborhoods where art and education resources can be scarce. Your donation can help us share these great materials in all neighborhoods of New York City.
Become a sponsor of BUILD NYC!

BUILD NYC is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.
The Laura B. Vogler
Foundation
Start-up funding for program development generously provided by The Laura B. Vogler Foundation.
BUILD NYC In-Kind Supporters:





Blog posts about BUILD NYC:
Uni Project returns to Jacob Schiff Playground with BUILD NYC
BUILD NYC is a pop-up installation that lets New Yorkers build together with LEGOs and more. Today, we set up on a plaza at the entrance of the park so people on Amsterdam Avenue could stop and join us. Today's event is part of our series called Pop-up...
Closing out summer play streets in the Bronx
Today, the Uni Project wrapped up a month-long series at NYC Play Streets. Over the past four weeks, we brought our program BUILD NYC to play streets at Butler and Forest Houses (NYCHA), hosted by the Police Athletic League (PAL). Made possible in part...
Uni Project brings BUILD NYC to Forest Houses play street
As part of a month-long run, the Uni Project brought BUILD NYC to a play street at Forest Houses (NYCHA), hosted by the Police Athletic League (PAL). Today was part of a collaboration with PAL to keep making play streets even better, which has included...