Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates
Originally designed by Emery Roth & Sons in 1968, this 1.2M sf office building recently underwent a major repositioning. As part of the aesthetic and energy efficiency upgrades to its lobby and facade, MNLA's design brings the privately-owned public spaces (POPS) into compliance with current Department of City Planning (DCP) POPS regulations.
To overcome soil depth limitations due to Grand Central Station train lines running underneath the building, the plaza deck structure was modified to create large planting areas for trees in addition to enlarging planters along the sidewalk frontages. The combination of tightly-spaced flowering trees and seasonal plantings defines building entrances and buffers outdoor cafes on the north and south sides from the sidewalk. Additional amenities include new granite pavement throughout, more generously proportioned seating steps, and a variety of movable furniture.