At the heart of Manhattan’s east side, this 36-story residential tower in Kips Bay offers unbeatable comfort and convenience. Real estate agency Kibel engaged EDG to renovate the property’s shared roof and ground plaza areas in order to maximize the value of existing spaces. EDG navigated complicated building codes, conducted structural analysis, and explored possibilities to repurpose existing components to achieve a cohesive, welcoming design. On the ground plaza, the team introduced geometry and materials to existing site elements. On the roof, the team retrofit a previously inaccessible space by extending elevators, transforming mechanical rooms into amenity space, and reviewing the impact of increased loading of the existing roof.

Roof:
There were a lot of obstacles to overcome to make this project possible. Elevators needed first to be extended for tenants to access the space easily. We navigated egress and occupancy codes and did a structural review of the increase in loading on the existing roof -- all in-house. We also looked to repurpose mechanical rooms for amenity space.

This expansive outdoor building amenity of 10,000 sq. ft. includes a pool, lush garden, and pergolas. With 360° views of the city from midtown east, from 36 stories above, it will be the summer destination for the building’s 300 apartment tenants.

Ground Plaza:
This privately-owned public space (POPS) is one of the busiest in Midtown east, given it is the only space of its kind for many blocks. This plaza is a distinct draw for lunchtime pedestrians and shoppers alike and was in desperate need of an update when EDG was asked to redesign it. From general wear and tear to general aesthetics, EDG also updated circulation and accessibility within the plaza and tied this into the retail, office, and newly updated residential lobby entrance.

Since the space has such a prominent position on the 2nd Avenue corner, we wanted to create an image field at the ground level using a handful of paving materials that would invite visitors and beckon to those passing by. Using some of the extant planter geometries as a starting point for design, EDG created an embracing figural ground condition and designed the waterproofing assembly systems from the structural deck upwards. Having only previously allowed for ADA accessibility at the north end of the site, EDG also created ramp access at the south and provided more gradual stepping for anyone entering the plaza.

This much-needed renovation was part of a multiphase approach, which needed to consider all of the different interface conditions and operational requirements. EDG set up a strategy that worked for all the stakeholders, meeting all of their requirements and limiting any downtime. The plaza is now a more functional and robust space, and the corner is a more vibrant hub that can meet the growing demand.

Working with some of the existing site components, we developed a plan that increased accessibility, visibility, and seating capacity, ensuring the continuation of the lively square and maximizing retail potential. Another important aspect was to provide a signature design for the ground plane, creating a distinct landmark piazza with carefully considered geometry and materials.

The plaza provides a unique gathering space for both the building and the neighborhood, where people can congregate in larger units, or relax as individuals. The 10,000 sq. ft. space provides a range of user experiences from the intimate to the social, with the ultimate aim of animating the overall experience and creating a rich civic space.

With meticulously planned architectural and structural moves, EDG unlocked the potential of the residential tower’s community spaces. The building’s 300+ residents now return home through a distinct landmark piazza, where a lively congregation fosters a rich civic space. The plan enhances accessibility, visibility, and capacity — while maximizing retail potential and developing a signature design on the ground plane. Thirty-six floors above, residents enjoy an exquisitely curated 360° panorama of Manhattan’s skyline, accompanied by a pristine pool, lush gardens, and pergolas.

This project is an excellent example of ways architects and engineers can create tremendous value in inaccessible, underutilized building space. The project was to turn the roof of this 36-story residential tower into a private oasis in the sky.