Located in the heart of Long Island City, Queens, the stand-alone new building for PS508Q aims to create a community presence and reflect education as a vibrant resource for a growing neighborhood. The new building, within the Special Long Island City Mixed-Use District, will house a Pre-K through 5th Grade school and a city-wide district 75 special education program. Inspired by the adjacent elevated MTA tracks, the brick pattern was developed to mimic a fabric rippling from the force of the passing train. For planning and articulation purposes, a ‘quiet’ side of the building has been designated away from the train on the east side of the site. As a result of sun and shadow studies, the rooftop play area faces northward, taking advantage of the spectacular views toward the historic Silvercup Studios sign.