Ruby Square

Organization Name: Perkins Eastman Architects DPC

Project Title: Ruby Square

Project Location: Jamaica, Queens, New York

Project Description:
Ruby Square is a transformative 714,000 sf mixed-use development in Jamaica, Queens, located near the major transit hub at Jamaica Station.The project delivers 614 rental units in studio to two-bedroom layouts, including 185 affordable units, along with more than 50,000 sf of resident amenities, 25,000 sf of retail space, 5,000 sf of community space, and 284 below-grade parking spaces. Addressing critical workforce housing needs, Ruby Square strengthens economic vitality in a dynamic and evolving neighborhood. The 185 units of affordable housing are set aside for residents earning 80 and 130 percent of the area median income (AMI). A number of homes have their own balconies that line the outer and inner facades of the superstructure. Amenities include rooftop lounges, co-working areas, a fitness center, an indoor basketball court, a children’s playroom, pet care facilities, a turfed dog run, and nearly one acre of landscaped outdoor space. At street level, the development enhances the pedestrian experience by activating retail frontages, improving the public realm, and providing convenient parking for residents and visitors.

Community Impact:
Ruby Square strengthens the Jamaica community by expanding access to affordable and workforce housing. It addresses local housing shortages and helps residents stay and thrive in their neighborhood. Ground-floor retail and community space support small businesses, cultural organizations, and job creation, contributing to local economic growth. The project replaces underutilized parcels with a vibrant, people-focused environment that includes shared amenities such as playrooms, co-working areas, creative space, and nearly an acre of landscaped outdoor space. These features promote connection, inclusion, and community building across all ages and income levels. Ruby Square also reintroduces 91st Street as a safe, pedestrian-oriented corridor featuring cultural programming in partnership with local institutions. Its location near Jamaica Station supports car-free living and reduces commute times while green space and sustainable design improve environmental quality. Ruby Square delivers more than housing by creating a resilient and connected community.

Organization Description:
Perkins Eastman is an international design, planning, and architecture firm founded in 1981, and is among the world’s largest and most respected award-winning design firms. From niche buildings to complex projects that enrich whole communities, the firm’s portfolio reflects a dedication to progressive and inventive design that enhances the quality of the human experience. Today, Perkins Eastman is a global architecture firm that has grown to include almost 1,000 employees working out of a combined 25 interdisciplinary studios around the world.

Team Members:

BRP Development Corp; Skycore Builders; McNamara Salvia; Dagher Engineering; Sullivan Group Design; Terrain-NYC Landscape; S+S Lighting Design; Simpson Gumpertz & Heger, William Vitacco Associates