Ian Nielsen-Fox - Thrive NYC

Thrive NYC

Masters Program | Terminal Studio | Project Professor - Howard Davis
Completed: Spring 2025

At Thrive NYC immigrants can set down roots, branch out to build strong ties with the local community and share & celebrate their cultural heritage. Inspired by the interconnected network of support often found in immigrant communities, this center encourages mutual growth between new arrivals and established business owners.

The primary program elements that make up the center include a local vendors’ market, an immigration resource center, and a variety of housing options. Inspired by the historic Essex Street Market, the Thrive Market serves as the cornerstone of this immigrant community. The Market features 20+ vendor spaces where immigrant entrepreneurs can apply their skills and gain career experience while expanding their professional network. The building also includes offices for legal services and classrooms for immigrants of any age to learn skills that will help with their transition into life in the United States. Rounding out the community experience is a housing complex across the street from the market that will provide flexible, temporary, and long term rental units.

Main Program

Market

Center

Housing

Market

Creating and sustaining economic opportunity

The Thrive NYC Market is a vibrant, inclusive marketplace that supports 13 food vendors and 20 retail spaces, empowering immigrant entrepreneurs while honoring the legacy of historic immigrant-founded markets like Essex Street Market. More than a commercial hub, it fosters connection between newcomers and long-time New Yorkers, preserving the city’s street-level vibrancy and cultural richness.

Center

Facilitating connection
and expanding networks

The Thrive NYC Center for Immigration is a dynamic hub offering essential services, legal aid, and skill-building programs, from English and entrepreneurship to healthcare and housing guidance, to support economic mobility and community integration. More than a service provider, it empowers immigrants and longtime New Yorkers alike to build strong foundations, pursue their goals, and thrive as engaged members of the city.

Housing

Building space for a healthy
and thriving community

Thrive NYC Housing provides a welcoming, mixed-use residential community that combines permanent apartments with temporary units for newcomers, supported by on-site offices and shared amenities like a laundry-equipped community room and green courtyard. Located above the market and steps from the Thrive NYC Center for Immigration, the housing model promotes stability, connection, and opportunity for both new immigrants and longtime New Yorkers.