Our annual Benefit for Public Space will be Thursday, June 11th. We’ll be returning to the New York Public Library Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library rooftop to honor innovative leaders who are instrumental in the positive transformation of the city’s shared landscape. Join us for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and sunset cityscape views, all while supporting our work to unlock the potential of New York City’s public spaces. 

This year, we're uplifting design projects that connect New York's communities and bring public spaces to life through access to affordable and sustainable housing. Meet our 2026 Honorees:

THE 2026 PUBLIC SPACE LEADERSHIP AWARD: 

SoMA at 25 Water Street is a 32-story office-to-residential conversion and expansion in Manhattan’s Financial District, developed by GFP Real Estate, MetroLoft Management, Harrison Street Asset Management  and designed by CetraRuddy. The ambitious project is the country’s largest office-to-residential conversion, with over 1,300 apartments, including 330 units of affordable housing.

THE 2026 BERGER PRIZE:

Melrose North is a 12‑story, 171‑unit supportive housing development in Morrisania, Bronx, developed through a joint venture between Bronx Pro Group, a certified WBE, and Services for the UnderServed(S:US), a nonprofit developer and social services provider. It serves households earning 40–80% of AMI (Area Median Income) and includes 103 supportive units for formerly homeless individuals with mental health or substance use challenges, as well as families who are survivors of domestic violence. The building is Passive House certified and offers amenities such as a computer room, outdoor gym, laundry, play area, community garden, and 24‑hour security. S:US provides on‑site social services from ground‑floor offices. Approximately 5,000 sq ft of community facility space is occupied by DreamYard Project, a nonprofit arts education organization, where Bronx youth receive training in design, marketing, and professional skills for the gaming industry. The project was designed by Curtis + Ginsberg Architects. The Berger Prize is named in honor of Design Trust’s longest serving Board Member, the late Ted Berger, paying tribute to his legacy as a trailblazer for the arts, cultural policy, and for New York City.

Be recognized at the event by giving at the leadership level. Your tax-deductible contribution is especially important this year, as it provides vital support for our future. Buy your tickets or sign up for a sponsorship package here. All proceeds directly support the mission of the Design Trust for Public Space.

Questions about the event or sponsorships? Contact our Director of Development Alisa Schierman aschierman@designtrust.org