Factory Chic

by Howard Smallowitz, Asst. News Ed.; Civil Engineering�ASCE, 345 East 47th St., New York, NY 10017,


Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 1986, Vol. 56, Issue 9, Pg. 46-48


Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

Developers of the International Design Center of New York have recently spent $163 million to convert an unused chewing gum factory and a former battery plant into a showcase for New York City's interior design industry. The projects' designers used the heavy duty construction of the buildings to their advantage. The enormous load bearing capacity of the former battery plant allowed for the installation of a new skylight, a concrete slab below it, an elevator tower, a seven story steel and terrazzo staircase and a penthouse addition to the roof, all where none had existed before in Center Two. A special facade maintenance program was instituted to pin the building's brick face back to its frame. New features were also added in the renovation of Center One. These include a new staircase, a new skylight, and a concrete slab in a central atrium. Plans for a Center Three and Center Four are proceeding. A Center Five and Center Six also may be in the offing.

Subject Headings: Stairs | Slabs | Load bearing capacity | Light (natural) | Concrete slabs | Building design | Batteries

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