Project Description
The project includes the adaptive re-use of an historic 1880’s office buidling along with the addition of a new 600 foot tall residential building constructed in Architectural Concrete (known by the French term Béton Brut ). The new tower seamlessly merges the interior spaces of the historic structure with that of the new. The program for the new tower includes retail spaces, residential lobby, hotel rooms, amenity facilities, and residences. The foot print of this slender tower is 50 feet by 100 feet.
The financial feasibility of restoring the building continued to prove faulty as scores of studies were conducted. It wasn’t until the developer discovered a way to restore the structure, by designing a third addition that would house extra hotel rooms and residences. Through this addition the building’s exterior and interior could be restored, reviving a timeless piece of Manhattan. The combination of the old building, the annex, and the new building reflects a microcosm of NYC: how NY changes with time. Beginning as a single office building, the building has grown and adapted throughout its life to become the boutique hotel, residences, and restaurant venue it is today.
Restoring the building, converting it into a hotel, as well as adding residences, seeks to contribute to the wave of revival downtown. Bringing residents and tourism to a rapidly developing Financial District will change a neighborhood that was previously neglected, niched for business, and then scarred by terrorism. Combining the old and the new represents the recognition of the past and the present, pushing toward a bright future.