A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS WESTCHESTER + HUDSON VALLEY CHAPTER
DESIGN AWARD WINNERS!
AIAWHV GOES GREEN THE SUSTAINABLE DESIGN DATABASE REBUILDING AFTER SUPER-STORM SANDY ARCHITECT BECOMES POLITICIAN RENOVATING HISTORIC FACADES FEAR & LOATHING PART III SOIREE 77 ROCKS
OUT!
VOLUME 1 | NO. 1 | WINTER 2014
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ArchPLUS: A publication of the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter
Winter 2014 Vol. 1, No. 1
ArchPLUS Staff
Editor-in-Chief Peter F Gaito Jr., AIA pgaitojr@pfga.net Art Director
Ken Baviallo, Assoc. AIA Photo Editor Jason Taylor, AIA Advertising Jaclyn Tyler, AIA Valerie Brown, Hon. AIANYS, LEED AP
The AIA is a visionary member organization providing advocacy, leadership, and resources for architects to design a better world. American Institute of Architects Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter
Contributing Editors John Fry, AIA LEED AP bd+c, Gregg DeAngelis, AIA LEED AP, Manuel Andrade, AIA, LEED AP
P.O.Box 611 Katonah, NY 10536 914.232.7240 E-mail: chapteroffice@aiawhv.org www.aiawhv.org
Board of Directors 2014
Advertising
President
John Fry, AIA, LEED AP, bd+c
President-Elect
Peter F. Gaito Jr, AIA
Treasurer
Manuel Andrade, AIA, LEED AP
Secretary
Michael Berta, AIA
Directors
James Copeland, AIA May Kirk, AIA Sunghee Park, AIA, LEED AP Elizabeth Parks, AIA Joe Sencen, AIA, LEED AP Jason Taylor, AIA Rick Torres, AIA
Associate Directors
Erika Conradt, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP Jaclyn Tyler, Assoc. AIA
State Director
George Gaspar, AIA
Immediate Past President
Gregg DeAngelis, AIA, LEED AP
Executive Director AIAWHV Bike Tour: Stone Barnes,Tarrytown, NY Photo by Peter Gaito Jr.
AIA – Statement of Purpose:
Valerie Brown, Hon. AIANYS, LEED AP chapteroffice@aiawhv.org
ArchPLUS is a quarterly publication of the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter. For advertising information, please call 914.232.7240 or E-mail chapteroffice@aiawhv.org.
Submission
ArchPLUS is currently accepting unsolicited material. For submision guidelines and/or to become a regular contributor, please see our website for information, www.aiawhv.org. For further information please contact us at 914.232.7240 or via E-mail: chapteroffice@aiawhv.org.
ArchPLUS
is a benefit of the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter as a quarterly publication. For information on professional or allied membership, please call 914-2327240 or email chapteroffice@aiawhv.org. The opinions expressed hererin or the representations made by advertisers, including copyrights and warranties, are not those of the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter or the Editor of ArchPLUS, unless expressly stated otherwise. ©2014 The American Institute of Architects Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without expressed written permission is strictly prohibited.
Table of Contents REGULARS
FEATURES
8 A President’s Thank You
6 A Word from the Editor
A New Era for the Chapter By Peter Gaito Jr., AIA
Immeadiate Past President Gregg DeAngelis reflects on the success of 2013, and his advice and hopes for another great year in our chapter history. By Gregg DeAngelis, AIA, LEED AP
7 Sustainable Design
Submit your project to the AIAWHV Sustainable Database By Bill Pfaff, AIA LEED AP & Joe Sencen, AIA LEED AP
18 First Architect, Now Alderman
10 President’s Perspective
22 After Super Storm Sandy
Welcome to 2014 By John Fry, AIA, LEED AP bd+c Updates in the IDP Process By Jaclyn Tyler, AIA and Ken Baviello, Assoc. AIA
13 Legal Corner
Important Items to Ask Your Insurance Carrier By David Kassakoff, Esq., LEED AP
14 Code Corner
What’s New in Residential Projects By Erica Kreiger, AIA (Article Tie-in, see p.16, 17, 22)
26 Fear and Loathing at Design Review Boards: Part 3
The third installment in this series examines strategies for navigating the process in a linear path with positive results. By John Fry, AIA, LEED AP bd+c
28 Land of 10,000 Lakes and Windows
Insight from the Marvin Window Factory Tour at their in Minnesota headquarters and highlights from the guided Minneapolis Architecture Tour. By Rick Torres, AIA
30 AIAWHV Event Highlights: Soiree 77
Highlights from the 2013 Annual Chapter Soiree
2013 DESIGN AWARDS SINGLE FAMILY
News from the Local, State and National News Wire, and Good Samiritan Law (Article Tie-in, see p.14, 22)
20 Structural Solutions
Former AIAWHV board member, takes a run at politics in Kingston, NY By Brad Will, AIA, LEED AP An AIAWHV board member shares his experience with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and sheds some light on what has been done, and what we can do to help as architects (Article Tie-in, see p. 14,16,17)
12 Emerging Professionals
16 AIA Updates
ArchPLUS
Winter 2014 Vol. 1, No. 1
High Honor Award: A HOUSE IN THE WOODS Hudson Valley, NY
ARCHITECT: WILLIAM REUE ARCHITECT MEP Engineering: D’Antonio Consulting Engineers Structural Engineering: Ross Dalland Sustainability Consultant: Integral Building and Design Surveyor: Mercurio, Norton and Taroli Home Automation: Everglades Technology Cabinetry: Cabinets by Stanley Contractor: Sisca Northeast Photography: Steve Freihon
Renovations to Historic Facades By Ciri Cuono, PE & Bruce Darling
48 Interview
Running the Rockefeller: A Conversation with Kim Miller, AIA By Peter Gaito Jr., AIA
32 AIAWHV Design Awards for 2013
This year’s winners and their project details at the Annual Celebration of Architects By Julie Evans, AIA, LEED AP
Located on a densely forested slope in the Hudson Valley, A House in the Woods is the result of the studied relationship between two opposing geometries - a long sculptural wall clad in Cor-Ten weathering steel and a mass of stratified bluestone that appears to have emerged from the boulder-strewn earth. The heroic wall is pragmatically justified as it organizes the interior spaces into a series of cinmetaic portals to the landscape and carves out a modest entry court that amplifies the sound of the stream running parallel to the house. The use of locally-sourced materials and strategic siting stitch the house into the natural world while contributing to its sustainability for a modern one.
46 AIAWHV Event Highlights: EXPO: Progressions Highlights from the 2013 Annual Design Expo
A Word From The Editor
Same profession; new challenges, new solutions, new chapter magazine Welcome to the New Year and the 1st Issue of the new journal for
ArchPLUS reaches 1,000 people in 7 counties
6 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
the Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, ArchPLUS. This new magazine will become another viable asset that compliments (not repeats) the Chapter website and our social media content. In celebration of our new magazine, this issue is dedicated to new directions in the Chapter and in the AIA. As a profession, we face many new challenges including ever changing technology, firm specialization, the public underestimation of an architects’ value, smaller budgets, competitive compensation and the desire to create sustainable buildings regardless of size, scope and budget. As a chapter, and by extension, this magazine, we will strive to create a written publication by which all chapter members and allied professionals can benefit from the tremendous effort put forth by the dedicated Board of Directors and our Executive Director, to deliver relevant, dynamic content that will enhance, entertain, enlighten and inspire your lives as architects and members of the building industry. ArchPLUS will provide interesting, meaningful information to the Chapter and serves as a written and visual forum for: • Discussing ideas and issues • Providing a platform for leadership to speak to the members, colleagues, sponsors, the public and local government • Reporting on critical and thoughtful local, State and National AIA items • Disseminating industry related and business ideas and information • Inspiring you info on events, tours, books, places and spaces ArchPLUS will offer chapter business and non-news items in the form of great editorials, opinions, regular and
special features quarterly. Our chapter’s website, www.aiawhv.org, will remain as the timely resource for current events, industry news, and general chapter and national AIA information. By the numbers, our chapter membership covers 7 counties, has almost 600 members, and over 400 allied members. ArchPLUS promises consistent quality content, to foster professional growth, personal stewardship and civic spirit. With this issue, we introduce a new format, new contributors, new sponsors, and a series of regular columns that are sure to satisfy. The world of architecture is a unique and varied one, with many different aspects all contained under the hypernym, Architecture Umbrella. With that uniqueness comes contributors with a variety of expertise and interests. Knowing this, we encourage you to also become an active contributor to submit articles, book and exhibition reviews, news affecting the profession and practice, as well as news about your firm and staff. As I take the helm, I do so with excitement for the opportunity to share ideas whereby we can keep the issues fresh and relevant, and in doing so, recognize that I have big shoes to fill. Stu Markowitz, General Notes Editor Extraordinaire and 2010 Chapter President, successfully guided the chapter publication from a simple newsletter to the previous, engaging publication. For this, we all owe him a great deal of thanks. I am also grateful for his leadership and friendship and suspect that Stu will one day become a regular ArchPLUS contributor.....Right Stu? Talk soon Peter Gaito Jr, AIA pgaitojr@pfga.net
Sustainable Design
Got Green ? Submit your projects to the AIAWHV Sustainable Design Database by bill pfaff, aia, LEED AP and joe sencen, aia, LEED AP We are enhancing our Sustainable Design Database so please come visit the web page on the AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter website, www.aiawhv.org. Go to the Home page and click on the Sustainable icon. From there you will see a screen and a button to Submit Your Project. An image from that web page is below. We are actively seeking input from our members to further build our own Chapter’s Sustainable Projects and need your help. If you are working on a LEED project, or any project employing sustainable design strategies or systems, please upload to the website noted above and it will be featured. We will also be featuring monthly articles and/or webinars that support sustainable design. Our first webinar is based on the new version of LEED so please click on the link described above and get up to speed with the future of LEED projects, systems, methods and materials. Questions? Need assistance? Contact our Executive Director, Valerie Brown: chapteroffice@aiawhv.org
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 7
President’s Thank You
Final thoughts from the outgoing President by gregg deangelis, aia, LEED AP
It was both a privilege and a pleasure to serve as your 2013 chapter president. As predicted by several of my predecessors, 2013 passed very quickly. However, that observation alone would too simply gloss over the wonderfully rich and rewarding experiences that the year brought. In addition to representing our chapter at AIA National and AIA New York State conferences and overseeing our own AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley programs and events, I was able to contribute to some special and on-going initiatives, including: Strategically discussing AIA National’s Repositioning Initiative to determine which aspects are most relevant and should be pursued for AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley. Continuing to expand working relationships with our network of allied professionals, not-for-profit and business organizations, as well as elected officials in our chapter’s region. Continuing to encourage and support our chapter’s emerging professionals. It has been inspiring to witness how eagerly they’ve embraced the opportunity to develop new programs, engage new members, find new sponsors, and influence visioning discussions for AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley. Continuing to host meetings of past AIAWHV chapter presidents to provide the opportunity for them to discuss how they may contribute their unique perspective and abilities to support our chapter’s future growth and development. 8 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
Working with our Board to continue to guide our chapter’s rebound from the same financial strains that have challenged most all of us over the past several years.
Although most of the items are not new, I am proud of the breadth and extent of activities and advocacy our AIA chapter provides. Our chapter exists for our members, so please do not hesitate to provide your feedback and critical input as to which programs and initiatives you find most relevant, or if there are any new ideas that you believe should pursued. On the following page, you will find a brief Year End Review. 2014 should be equally as enriching and fun. Most of all, I am thankful for the privilege to serve with such a passionate and committed Board of Directors, Executive Director and many volunteers over the past several years. I remain optimistic and excited about the future of our profession and the relevance of our Westchester + Hudson Valley AIA chapter, both to our members and to the community. Best wishes to all for a happy, healthy and prosperous 2014, Gregg C. DeAngelis, AIA, LEED AP
Gregg will to continue his outstanding service to the Chapter as Immediate Past President.
AIAWHV 2013: Year in Review Signature Events
Golf Outing Scholarship & Education Fundraiser (June) – Architectural Education Committee reviewed applications and awarded $5,000 in architectural student scholarships. Design and Technology EXPO (October) – the EXPO Task Force expanded the amount of exhibitors and CES courses offered Design Awards (November) – Design Excellence Committee Soiree 77 – Celebration and Honors (December) – Emerging Professionals Committee
Programs
Chapter Meetings Building Code Updates (January) Homes for Westchester - Panel Discussion + Allied Professionals (March) Ezra Stoller Book Lecture (April) Annual Business Meeting + Norman McGrath Presentation (September)
Seminars and Symposiums
Summer School – 6 sessions (July and August) CAD Symposium (March) Earth Day Symposium – USGBC credits (April) Sprinkler Seminar (May) Breakfast meetings – Putnam/Dutchess Outreach (March + June) Lunch Seminars (monthly) – Woman in Architecture Committee
AIA Repositioning Initiative
AIA WHV Member Survey (March) Town Hall Meeting (April) Innovation Fund Application (July) Strategic Planning Retreat and Report (July/August)
Emerging Professionals Committee Mardi Gras Celebration (March) 20x20 Social Event (October) ARE Study Materials
Tours
Westchester Airport Hangar (June) – Emerging Professionals Usonia (October) – Historic Resources Committee
Allied Professionals Outreach
Homes for Westchester – panel discussion, leadership meetings Westchester Municipal Planning Federation – coordination with
president and president-elect Building and Realty Institute – meetings with executive director and senior leadership
Advocacy and Community Development
Homes for Westchester – Leadership Council Meetings (ongoing) Building and Realty Institute – meetings with Westchester County Executive Annual Sponsorship Drive (January) – Sponsorship Committee Past Presidents Council – Preliminary Formative Discussions (February and November) Sustainable Design Database (ongoing development) – Sustainable Design Database Task Force Chapter Newsletter – converted to all digital format (6 issues/yr) Chapter Media Committee Website – News, Issues, Calendar, On-line Registration (ongoing) Chapter Media Committee
Chapter Business and Administrative Initiatives
Board of Director Meetings (monthly) Executive Committee Meetings (monthly) Committees and Task Forces – Updated descriptions and active members Interviewed and engaged new accountant for chapter Investigated Medical Insurance Alternatives for Members
National and State: AIA National + AIA NYS
Conventions / Conferences / Leadership Training AIA National Grassroots, Washington, DC (March) AIA National Convention, Denver (June) CACE Conference, Atlanta (August) AIA NYS Convention, Syracuse (September)
Government Advocacy and Lobbying
AIA National Lobby Day, Washington, DC (March) – Meetings with US Assemblywoman Nita Lowey, and US Assemblyman Elliot Engel, among others. AIA NYS Lobby Day, Albany, NY (April) – Meetings with: NYS Senator George Latimer, NYS Senator David Carlucci, NYS Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, NYS Assemblyman Steven Otis, NYS Assemblyman Steve Englebright
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 9
President’s Perspective
Hello Members... by john fry, AIA, LEED AP bd+c
Over the past three years we have set new compass points Into 2014 we go and it is my distinct honor to become your AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Chapter President. My initial involvement as a chapter director began in 1996. I remained active in chapter business serving on the Design Awards Committee from 1998 until 2005. During that period I had the pleasure of working with former chapter president Vinny Mellusi AIA, as well as and former General Notes editor Elisa Volpati AIA, and co-chairing a re-branding of the design awards program, which, with the assistance of Michiko Kishi, developed a new graphic format which remains the basis of the graphics today. I was graciously invited to return as a director in 2008 and subsequently embraced the desire to participate in chapter leadership as an officer. I’ve had the distinct pleasure of working closely with an outstanding leadership chain beginning with Stu Markowitz AIA, LEED AP, Bill Pfaff AIA, LEED AP, George Gaspar AIA and most recently Gregg DeAngelis AIA, LEED AP. This exposure alone is worth the price of admission to the ‘officer corps’. I am excited about working with the 2014 slate of officers including Peter Gaito Jr AIA Vice President/President Elect; Manny Andrade AIA, LEED AP Treasurer and Michael Berta AIA Secretary. I look forward to a productive 2014 with this leadership team. We have a diverse and robust board of directors and I invite you to get to know them at www.aiawhv.org. Our website is a great resource for our chapter members and an ever expanding portal for your professional development. I can sincerely share that my enthusiasm for the AIA is the product of many years of observations regarding our profession, its place in society, and how collective professional efforts are a mandatory component to the advancement of any profession or cause. The elements of our profession have been characterized in many forms in which you are all familiar. I would like to take this opportunity to explain the elements I find particularly compelling and why I will strive to promote their further development in 2014.
10 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
AIA is a strong professional association with over 81,000 members nationally and internationally. AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley’s membership is over 600 strong even in the wake of a long and distressed economic downturn. Indicators suggest our profession, and the industry in general, is emerging from this period towards the next significant growth period. AIA is committed to becoming a leaner, faster and stronger organization to better serve its membership as we enter this new era. AIA’s Repositioning Initiative is entering its second year of implementation. Your chapter leadership is committed to realizing this initiative at the local level along with providing meaningful resources to our membership. AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley is committed to better serving its membership by improving our leadership skills and advancing the AIA brand in our chapter area. The core idea that we are a stronger profession through collective action is undeniable. It is an axiom that holds true in any endeavor. AIA is the voice of our profession and we strive to be a meaningful voice on your behalf. Over the past three years we have set new compass points within the chapter for entering this new era. These areas of focus are identified with the introduction of chapter Icons, which represent a significant leap forward in advancing chapter graphics. Chapter efforts coinciding with each Icon are as follows: Advocacy – Your chapter lobbies on your behalf at national, state and local levels. From Capitol Hill to local municipal officials you are represented by AIA and AIAWHV. Our officers, directors and Executive Director provide leadership and advocacy addressing a wide range of issues. These include local building permit application issues to disaster relief issues. AIA/AIAWHV is making its case for the profession daily and your membership secures these efforts on your behalf. Our advocacy
initiative goes beyond the political arena. We are involved in public awareness as it relates to our profession. From affordable housing to historic preservation, our advocacy efforts are broad and relevant. AIA’s contract document program itself is a testament to a long tradition of advocacy as it remains a flagship component of AIA and represents a far reaching element beyond the architectural profession. Opportunities exist for all members to engage in these efforts. We encourage you to contact your leadership to exchange ideas and opportunities. Allied Professional Network – Your chapter recognizes that the strength of a collective voice can be amplified by uniting with our allied professionals. Architects share many of the same points of emphasis and professional agendas as Engineers, Landscape Architects, Planners, Land Use Attorneys, Developers and Real Estate professionals. AIAWHV is networking with other professional associations developing programming and identifying key issues to approach with a collective voice. We are committed to expanding these efforts in 2014. Celebrate – We need to celebrate our accomplishments as a profession; Perhaps celebrate our profession as a whole. AIAWHV hosts several events throughout the year including our design awards program entitled, Celebration of Architecture, and the Soirée series which marks our year end signature celebration of both chapter accomplishments and anniversary of it’s founding. We are committed to encourage and host ‘big fun’, like this past December’s Soirée 77. Emerging Professionals – A significant focus of Repositioning is to advance the position of our younger demographic as well as assuring our profession is represented as a diverse snapshot of who we are, who we want to be and who we should be. AIAWHV is committed to our emerging professionals via relevant programming and as a supportive resource for professional advancement. These efforts include student scholarship assistance, mentoring programs, chapter programming (20x20 and building tours), two associate director seats on our chapter board of directors and the recent creation of chapter licensing scholarship fund. Inspire – AIAWHV recognizes that beyond the elements of the profession, ultimately we all need to be inspired. As you all are aware inspiration can come through many circumstances and AIAWHV is committed to highlight and provide these circumstances and experiences. Our chapter programming is the primary
conduit for which we can provide inspiration. Whether it is through engaging speakers, tours or other meaningful programming, we are committed to providing a full spectrum of professional experiences. Stay tuned for our 2014 programming calendar for opportunities of inspiration! Network – Providing a platform for our membership to meet the greater business community, potential clients and policy makers is a focus for our chapter. Many of our events are open to the greater business community including developers and municipal officials who are the decision makers for their respective public work projects. AIAWHV is committed to advancing this interface on behalf of our membership. Each of you has an opportunity to expand both your brand as well as the AIA brand by advancing your own networking efforts. AIAWHV is that excellent resource for you. Prosper – AIAWHV has identified several key areas of program development and business relationships to pursue which enhance your efforts to prosper. From professional business strategies to legal issues your chapter has made strides in growing our knowledge towards this pursuit. Your chapter leadership as stewards of AIAWHV non for profit professional organization is also committed to maintaining its financial strength and viability. We as a chapter association must prosper to enable its service to you as a chapter member. Our chapter, in relative terms, is a significant business venture which cannot operate on dues alone. As many of us are finding our way out of the financial realities beginning in late 2008, so too is your chapter. Our future looks bright but we continue to conduct chapter business with this stewardship in mind. Sustainable – A core concept in our professional culture has been specifically identified by your chapter leadership as a focus for providing a meaningful local resource promoting sustainable means and methods. A Sustainable Database has been created as a resource available to chapter members. It is uniquely based on projects within our chapter area. Beyond the database, chapter programs are provided focusing on sustainable means and methods. We encourage chapter members to participate in expanding the online database in 2014 and beyond. The synergistic opportunities are limitless. Finally, the introduction of our new publication, ArchPLUS, marks a significant chapter accomplishment in and of itself. Your chapter leadership has thoughtfully examined the potential of this quarterly publication and is convinced introducing this concept and format is the right move for the chapter as we enter a new ‘era’. Read on, and look for the next great issue to arrive in April.
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 11
Emerging Professionals
20 x 20: Halloween
by ken baviello, assoc aia
The resource for Associate AIA chapter members
New ARE Scholarship by Jaclyn tyler, aia
The AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley Associate Directors, Ken Baviello, Erika Conradt and Jaclyn Tyler, have developed a Scholarship Program to encourage Chapter Associate participation in the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). The scholarship is intended to recognize Associate AIAWHV Chapter members who have made significant contributions at an early stage in their careers to the profession and to encourage their pursuit of licensure. Scholarships will be awarded based on a demonstration of financial need and additional criteria to be distributed later this year. A jury composed of distinguished professionals from the AIAWHV Board of Directors, the AIA College of Fellows and NYS Emerging Professional Leaders will select the recipients from submitted criteria. Scholarship recipients will be reimbursed for the cost of passing the divisions of the Architect Registration Examinations with details to be released later this year. The award criteria and disbursement will both be modeled after the Jason Pettigrew Scholarship and the AIANYS ARE Scholarship Program. The recipient of the AIAWHV ARE Stay tuned for the next Scholarship will be recognized at the chapter’s December Soirée celebration. 20x20 date!
On Monday October 28th the AIAWHV Chapter held its fall, 20 Slides in 20 Seconds, event at Elements Bar in White Plains. This 20x20 event was themed around Halloween and included an informal costume contest and some entertaining Halloween presentations. As always, great food and drinks were provided by Elements. Twenty four chapter members attended including seven presenters. Presentations included topics ranging from costumes, motorcycles, hats, travel, to Halloween and making a Daft Punk costume. The “Are You Smarter than an Intern” question series again provided added excitement and some good laughs. Winners of each round received an additional free drink ticket. The Associates continue to hold their own in the fierce competition... This seemed to be our most social of the event series to date with many chapter members arriving early and staying late. We hope this is a growing trend and more members participate! A big thank you to Carol Kurth Architecture for sponsoring and Peter Krupenye for photographing.
The Emerging Professionals Committee thanks the following companies for donation to the initial scholarship fund: • Carol Kurth Architecture PC + Interiors LTS • C.W. Brown, Inc. • John Sullivan Architecture, PC • Kenneth Irving, Architect PC
For more info on becoming an Associate AIA Member, go to www.aiawhv.org
12 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
Legal Corner
Insurance Indemnification Obligations by david B. kosakoff, esq.
The architect must make sure that insurance is available and will provide the appropriate coverage as required by the contract. Just when you think you have successfully secured
an exciting new project, the excitement can wane as contract negotiations begin. Sophisticated owners will typically retain the services of an experienced construction lawyer to negotiate agreements that endeavor to transfer most, if not all risk, from the owner to the architect. Those design professionals who are desperate for the work or excited about the prospects of the project often negotiate terms that are unfavorable to them. It is not uncommon for parties to expend considerable energy haggling over the terms of an agreement, only to shove the contract in their files after the terms are finally negotiated. The contract is only pulled out when a conflict arises or litigation ensues, and it is only then that the architect or his or her lawyer discover the grim reality of a failed negotiation process. Owners and developers consistently look for ways to minimize their risk on projects. Particularly, municipal owners or large developers will seek to require that the architect not only indemnify them for any and all wrong doing on the project, but also provide insurance coverage naming them as an additional insured. There is a vast difference between the obligation to indemnify and the obligation to insure. Indemnification requires the architect to hold harmless the Owner and provide a defense should errors arise from, or relate to, the conduct of the architect and his or her subconsultants. While such clauses are often broad and unfair, the relative logic of providing protection for an architect’s mistake is easy to understand. The larger and more significant obligation may result from the duty to name the owner as an additional insured. Under these circumstances, while owners may procure their own coverage, they often seek to be included on the architect’s policy of
insurance as the first line of defense and compensation for claims by others. The insurance obligation may, in many instances, be required regardless of fault. In this way, the architect’s carrier may be obligated to provide a defense and indemnity for claims that have nothing to do with the conduct of the architect. The architect is well advised to tread carefully when presented with such options. In the first instance, the architect must make sure that insurance is available and will provide the appropriate coverage as required by the contract. All too often, coverage is not available, exposing the architect to breach of contract damages resulting from the failure to procure coverage. In addition, it is possible that by naming an owner as an additional insured, the architect is subjected to increased insurance premiums. This expense, together with the associated risk, must be factored into the overall value of the project to determine whether or not the architect’s fee is profitable. Being placed in a position to insure another party, may place a whole different light on the manner in which a claim will be defended. The architect may be without fault, but still obligated to pay due to an agreement to provide insurance. What may seem like insignificant contractual terms may ultimately be the lynch pin between a profitable project and an economic nightmare. The risk benefit analysis of undertaking a project must include careful consideration of contractual responsibilities. By keeping your eyes open, one will certainly be better informed and can make a reasonable decision about which provisions are acceptable and which will force you to walk away. David B. Kosakoff, Esq., LEED, AP is the General Counsel to the Chapter and a Partner with the law firm of Sinnreich Kosakoff & Messina, LLP and devotes his practice primarily to the representation of architects. He can be reached at dkosakoff@skmlaw.net
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 13
Code Czar
Determination of Stories Above Grade in Elevated One and Two-Family Dwellings in Flood Hazard Areas by erika kreiger, aia
Sprinkler system or no sprinkler system, that is the question
One of the most difficult questions facing design professionals and Code Enforcement Officials in the reconstruction after a severe flood event, is when the elevation of a dwelling to meet the requirements for flood-resistant construction creates a three-story dwelling. Section R313.5 of the 2010 Residential Code of New York State (RCNYS), requires that a dwelling having a height of three stories above grade be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 13D. The RCNYS Technical Bulletin, provides guidance for determining the number of stories above grade in one or twofamily dwellings that must be elevated in order to comply with the flood-resistant construction requirements of the RCNYS. The bulletin presents six determinations of stories above grade in elevated two-story dwellings based on the definitions, language, and conclusions from the RCNYS. Information is offered supporting determinations of stories above grade for dwellings with traditional basements, perimeter foundation walls, and open foundation systems consisting of piers, pilings or columns. In summary, the Technical Bulletin’s conclusions are:
1. Two-story dwelling with a basement, where the finished surface of the floor above is not more than 6 feet above grade plane, or not more than 6 feet above the finished ground
14 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
level for more than 50 percent of the total building perimeter, or not more than 12 feet above the finished ground level at any point. CONCLUSION: Two story dwelling; no sprinkler system is required.
2. Two story dwelling with a basement, where the finished surface of the floor above is: • More than 6 feet above grade plane, or • More than 6 feet above the finished ground level for more than 50 percent of the total building perimeter, or • More than 12 feet above the finished ground level at any point. CONCLUSION: Three story dwelling; a sprinkler system is required. 3. Two story dwelling with NO BASEMENT, and either perimeter foundation walls, or an open foundation system of piers, pilings or columns, where the finished surface of the floor above is: • Not more than 6 feet above grade plane • Not more than 6 feet above the finished ground level for more than 50 percent of the total building perimeter, and • Not more than 12 feet above finished ground level at any point CONCLUSION: Two story dwelling; no sprinkler system is required.
4. Two story dwelling with NO BASEMENT, and
either perimeter foundation walls, or an open foundation system of piers, pilings or columns, where the finished surface of the floor above is: • More than 6 feet above grade plane, • More than 6 feet above the finished ground level for more than 50 percent of the total building perimeter, and • More than 12 feet above the finished ground level at any point CONCLUSION: Three story dwelling; a sprinkler system is required.
5. Two story dwelling with NO BASEMENT, and an open foundation system of piers, pilings or columns; where the open foundation system has been enclosed by non-supporting breakaway walls, open-wood lattice work, insect screening, or other material intended to collapse under wind or flood loads; and where the finished surface of the floor above is: • More than 6 feet above grade plane, • More than 6 feet above the finished ground level for more than 50 percent of the total building perimeter, and • More than 12 feet above the finished ground level at any point CONCLUSION: Three story dwelling; a sprinkler system is required. 6. Two story dwelling with NO BASEMENT, and an open foundation system of piers, pilings or columns, where the finished surface of the floor above is: • More than 6 feet above grade plane, • More than 6 feet above the finished ground level for more than 50 percent of the total building perimeter, and • More than 12 feet above the finished ground level at any point CONCLUSION: Two story dwelling; no sprinkler system required, but limitations on the use of the area of the open foundation system may be necessary.
If the elevation of a dwelling to meet the requirements for flood-resistant construction is determined by the authority having jurisdiction to create a dwelling having a height of three stories above grade, Section R313.5 requires the installation of a NFPA 13D automatic sprinkler system. The Division of Building Standards and Codes (DBSC) offers property owners the opportunity to address individual problems with code compliance through its variance process. Questions on variances and the process should be directed to your DBSC Regional Office. NOTE: A “basement” under the 2010 RCNYS and a “basement” as defined by FEMA are not necessarily the same thing. FEMA defines a basement as “Any area of the building, including any sunken room or sunken portion of a room, having its floor below ground level (subgrade) on all sides.” In some flood hazard areas, enclosed areas, including basements, are prohibited below the elevated lowest floors. In other flood hazard areas, enclosed areas, including basements as defined by the 2010 RCNYS, below elevated lowest floors are permitted, but not to be used for living spaces and are limited in use to the parking of vehicles, building access (walkways, stairways or ramps), or storage. The homeowner and the CEO should be sure that including a basement (as defined in the 2010 RCNYS), in a one- or two-family dwelling located in a flood hazard area, does not violate any requirements applicable to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA’s requirements publication states that basements are not permitted, and all existing below grade areas must be backfilled to or above, the adjacent ground surface, for dwellings located in Zone A and Zone V. Erika is the Regional Architect for the State of NY based out of Peekskill.
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 15
AIA Updates
2014 State of the State Address: Jobs, Infrastructure, Recovery by mike burridge
Governor Cuomo took center stage on January
8th to deliver his fourth State of the State address, outlining his policy goals for the upcoming 2014 Legislative Session. Gearing up for his 2014 election bid, the governor is pinning his hopes on tangible job growth, a renewed sense of hope for the business climate, massive infrastructure investment, and preparing New York both intellectually and structurally for the 21st Century. The re-imagining and rejuvenation of New York State presents several opportunities for the architectural profession. The State’s push to overhaul the way we think about the built environment and its interaction with nature presents an opportunity to amplify the profession’s value and assist in crafting sensible design solutions. Immense infrastructure investment, to the tune of $17 billion, is expected to create thousands of jobs in the construction industry and hopefully strengthen architectural billings. The governor is investing $100 million to build and preserve 3,000 affordable housing units and $5 billion in the reconstruction of the State’s transit system, including the repair and replacement of 104 bridges. These projects will most likely continue to experiment with alternative project delivery such as Design-Build and Public-Private-Partnerships. It will be vital for the profession to be engaged in the process as the Legislature crafts laws to make these delivery models increasingly accessible for public projects. Architects must have a say in how these delivery methods protect the public welfare, tax dollars, and overall design quality. He unveiled a new competition called NYPrize, aimed at developing decentralized clean energy micro grids that can allow communities and buildings to operate as “energy islands” in emergencies. This $40 million competition will be awarded to communities across the state and will serve as a test case for transitioning to a cleaner and more resilient energy system. Competition will also find its way into scholarships aimed at the brightest students in the state. The top 10% of high school students will be granted a full scholarship if they pursue a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
16 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
field, with the agreement that they remain in the state for five years after graduation. STEM education currently recognizes several specialties within the architectural profession. The AIA is pushing for loan forgiveness at the federal level, and to support similar measures at the state level to help ease the burden of student loan debt, while drawing interest in the profession. Governor Cuomo also announced the second phase of the NY Rising Community Reconstruction program, a community-based reconstruction program created to engage areas impacted by recent natural disasters and support innovative recover plans. Twenty-two additional communities from across the state will be receiving Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) aid. AIANYS leadership continues to engage state agencies regarding the flaws in the NY Rising Community Reconstruction and Housing programs. AIANYS is pushing the state to rework their insurance requirements and payment schedules to make it easier for smaller firms to compete. For more information please visit http://stormrecovery.ny.gov/ interim-home While the Governor accomplished many of his recovery objectives he outlined last year, his goal to establish a Citizen First Responder Corps went unrealized. In a renewed commitment, the governor used this year’s address to announce that the Corps will be launched in mid-January with a first round of training for interested individuals. This spirit of volunteerism and commitment to one’s community is precisely the message AIANYS has been trying to send with the passage of the Good Samaritan Act. AIANYS worked tirelessly since the bill’s inception and has built a support network prime for action during the 2014 Legislative Session. Twenty-five other states around the country recognize the value of the profession’s skill set during times of crisis and provides them with reasonable immunity. With your help, support and advocacy, 2014 will be the year New York State extends this Good Samaritan recognition to a dedicated community of civic-minded professionals. Mike Burridge is the AIANYS Government Advocacy Coordinator
AIA Updates
AIANYS: Current efforts and recent accomplishments
Good Samaritan Act
AIANYS Strengthens State Agency Collaboration
New York Rising Community Reconstruction Program
While we find ourselves one year removed from the destruction of Hurricane Sandy, and two years removed from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, communities are still fighting to rebuild their homes, businesses, and lives. These events exposed the lack of capacity to respond to a crisis, and highlighted the need to design our built environment for resiliency in the face of a changing climate. The Good Samaritan Act will provide crucial liability protections for architects and other design professionals who choose to volunteer their skills and services in times of great need. Legal immunity will help remove barriers to large scale volunteer assistance and help build the response capacity the state seeks. The Government Advocacy Committee and AIANYS leadership have worked tirelessly to bring New York State in-line with the twenty-five other states that provide immunity for architects for volunteering their services. AIANYS is determined to continue to work with our allies in the Legislature and the design community, to pass the Good Samaritan Act and have it signed into law in 2014. 2014 is an election year and legislators want to hear from their constituents! Find your Assembly or Senate representative and contact them to let them know you support A.4380B/S.3942-A, the Good Samaritan Act.
Billions of capital construction dollars are allocated each year for public projects across the state and overseen by various state agencies and public authorities. These agencies and authorities enforce wide-ranging and disparate policies governing procurement, fee structures, project delivery, insurance requirements and other pertinent design and construction issues. Over this past year, AIANYS has redoubled its efforts toward collaboration with public sector construction entities such as the Office of General Services, the Dormitory Authority, and the State University Construction Fund, in order to ensure that the role of the architect is being protected during public projects. AIANYS continues to work closely with the State Board of Architecture on issues affecting the regulation, education, licensing, and discipline of the profession. Executive Director Georgi Ann Bailey has fostered a strong relationship with the Board and is present at each meeting to listen and offer feedback regarding trends and needs of the architectural profession.
This past July, forty-three communities were designated as NY Rising Communities for the purpose of distributing Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to municipalities affected by Hurricanes Sandy and Irene, and Tropical Storm Lee. The NY Rising Communities included towns, cities and villages in five AIANYS chapters: Long Island, Peconic, New York, Eastern NY, Westchester + Hudson Valley, Southern NY, and Buffalo/WNY. Timothy Boyland, AIA, V.P. of Government Advocacy, was appointed to serve on the Staten Island NY Rising Planning Community and is working to help communities across Staten Island build back better and smarter in order to mitigate future disasters. It’s not too late to become involved in rebuilding these communities. Visit the Governor’s NY Rising website and check for meeting dates and locations so you can share ideas and make your voice heard. One issue for members to address with their elected officials is the prohibitive insurance requirements that are making it difficult for independent firms to bid on reconstruction projects. AIANYS leadership and Executive Director Georgi Ann Bailey are currently working with DASNY and other state agencies to see what can be done to level the playing field so all firms can participate. Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 17
Feature
First Architect, now Alderman: A tale of budding civil service by brad will, aia
Architects, too, work with clients to arrive at holistic, functional, efficient and creative solutions. We have what it takes to be public officials, and should look at how we can serve our respective municipalities.
In the Summer of 1949, in the Village of New Paltz, NY, Board of Trustees and Acting Mayor Henry DuBois
were entertaining bids for the New Fire House and Village Hall. One of the three trustees was my grandfather, Roland G. Will, who served four 2-year terms on the Board, from 1945 to 1953. Approving and administering the award and construction of these two important municipal projects were the highlights of Dr. Will’s tenure on the Village Board of Trustees, as were the significant improvements and repairs to the water and sewer district. Architects, planners, teachers, and workers from a rainbow of industries and trades solve problems every day, on the job. My grandfather was a Fulbright professor of education and philosophy at SUNY New Paltz for over three decades, with a skill set uniquely qualified for application to public problem solving. Architects, too, work with clients to arrive at holistic, functional, efficient and creative solutions. We have what it takes to be public officials, and we should look at how we can serve our respective municipalities. As a teacher, my grandfather exemplified the role each of us, as citizens, can play in our communities as civil servants. In the middle of his teaching career, he chose to run for local office and contribute his expertise as an educator to the not-so-fine art of politics and policy-making. When he and his fellow Trustees
18 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
weren’t overseeing large scale municipal projects, they were lending assistance to a neighbor objecting to unwanted chickens gathering outside the kitchen window, or surface water running into cellars - it all comes with the territory of serving the public as a local politician. In the spirit of my grandfather Roland, and with the helpful encouragement of my fellow architects with whom I served four years on the AIAWHV Board of Directors, I declared my candidacy for 3rd Ward Alderman in our fine Hudson Valley City of Kingston, NY. That was early 2013, not knowing that the process on which I was embarking would be full of twists and turns. It was already known that our current Alderman, a young, first-term Republican, had opted not to seek reelection, thus creating an open seat on the Common Council. Along with two other Democrats, I threw my hat in the ring. Two of us interviewed in February with the Kingston Democratic Committee (the third candidate missed the interview date), and I was informed the very next day that my candidacy was unanimously approved. TWIST #1 occurred when it was learned that the rejected candidate went to the Republican Committee, and was handed their nomination. Evidently, with no Republicans stepping up in the 3rd Ward, a registered Democrat would suffice. TWIST#2 surfaced at the City Democratic Convention
in late May, when the same three Democratic candidates were each nominated from the floor. With no candidate receiving a second, a primary race commenced. Signature-gathering of Ward residents began in earnest throughout the month of June, and again, all three obtained the requisite number to get onto the September primary ballot. It was during this post-convention period that I first became aware of “cross filing,” a political tactic that exists in only a handful of states, and banned in other states. Originally intended to level the playing field (somewhat) for minor parties and “down ticket” elections, it was famously abused in 1944 by NY Congressman Vito Marcantonio, who successfully secured and won both the Republican and Democratic primaries. California found the practice odious enough to abolish in 1959, but it persists in NY, NH, and PA. My opponent, who had already secured the Republican nomination, was attempting this maneuver. He was denied garnering both major party nominations when I prevailed at the Democratic Primary election – thus, the General Election table was set. After a seemingly endless five-month long nomination, campaign, primary election, and general election, I won a twoyear term as our 3rd Ward Alderman. As one of nine Aldermen, I will work with State and County representatives, the Mayor’s office, City department heads, and 3rd Ward residents to help shape Kingston’s future. I have much to do and repairs to make (i.e. our infamous sinkhole), exciting developments are already in process: the County and City have won substantial grants to improve streets and develop a network of rail trails, new businesses continue to invest in Kingston and programs for kids
10 topics to choose from PDHs each
7
$245/person/session before March 1 $295/person/session after March 1 (Lunch is included on site for all sessions)
Call idp today for more information or to register – (315)682-1496 or visit our website, www.idpsessions.com
Registered Provider New Jersey State Board CPC Provider
and seniors are evolving. The arts and eateries are flourishing in our corner of the Hudson Valley and will be key elements of our economic recovery. As architects, we are trained to be problem solvers, prepared and well poised to tackle a myriad of municipal challenges. If we want to influence policy, introduce our ideas to a wide audience, and provide guidance for capital projects that too often are mismanaged or ill-conceived, then as architects we should seek a seat at the table. We have all spent countless hours on the other side of that table, before planning boards, zoning boards of appeal, town boards, and agency commissions. I believe we are shortchanging our profession and our communities by not forming the process, rather than simply reacting to it. My successful run for elected office is meant to address this perceived gap, and to encourage fellow architects in our chapter and beyond to seek positions of public/civil service, offer your ideas, and execute smart policies that will improve our great, historic Hudson Valley and Westchester towns, cities, and counties. Elected office is but one station at which we can serve, local boards and commissions are always looking for, and would truly benefit from, the participation and knowledge of architects and planners. On January 7, I was sworn in as 3rd Ward Alderman for the City of Kingston – somewhere, I know grandfather Will is smiling approvingly. Brad is former AIAWHV Board Member, an architect and currently D-Ward 3 in Kingston.
Now accepting registrations for the Spring ’14 Sessions Upstate New York
New York City HVAC Equipment and Installation Presented by William M. Rodwick, PE, BSCE, MPA New York City, NY – March 25
Dam Safety Inspections Presented by William M. Rodwick, PE, BSCE, MPA Fishkill, NY – April 3
Technical Restoration, Renovation, and Historic Preservation Presented by Edward D. Re, Jr., AIA New York City, NY – April 10
Quality Control / Quality Assurance and Professional Ethics Presented by William M. Rodwick, PE, BSCE, MPA Syracuse, NY – April 11
Analyzing Delays and Inefficiencies Using Real Examples & Case Studies Presented by Scott Lowe, PE New York City – May 6
Challenges of Structural Renovation Presented by Alexander Newman, PE Albany, NY – April 30 Improved Water Quality Through Green Infrastructure, Low Impact Development, and Better Site Design (Also recommended for Landscape Architects) Presented by Donald W. Lake, PE Buffalo, NY – May 13
NYC Department of Buildings, Building Code and Zoning Review, and BSA and City Planning Practice Presented by Charles Rizzo and Bryan Winter, RA New York City – May 29
Analyzing Delays and Inefficiencies Using Real Examples & Case Studies Presented by Scott Lowe, PE Syracuse, NY – May 16
New Jersey Smoke Control Systems and Applicable Building/Construction Code Requirements Presented by Robert J. Davidson East Hanover, NJ – February 25 Hamilton, NJ – February 26 Construction Project Legal Issues, Building Code Enforcement, & Design Professional Ethics Presented by Stephen Bialkowski, Esq. and Robert Hughes, JD Hamilton, NJ – March 18 East Hanover, NJ – March 26
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NEW IDP WEBINAR SERIES Presented by William Millikin 1.5 PDHs each Construction Project Documentation April 8 – 9:30am-11:00am [EST] Two Approaches to Measuring Construction Delays April 29 – 9:30am-11:00am [EST]
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 19
Structural Solutions
Renovating Historic Facades by ciro cuono, PE and bruce darling
Copper or stainless steel are also viable materials for the in wall flashings. The key is to use common sense and logic and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations completely Modern curtain wall and cavity wall facades present many challenges to the designer.
Equally as important are the challenges associated with historic facades (pre cavity wall and curtain wall technology), which exist in vast building stock across major cities and outlying suburbs across the country. The traditional building method for centuries was unreinforced masonry, usually brick, stone or rubble, and timber framing. The facades of these buildings resist the elements by mass effect. Known as barrier systems, the massiveness of the masonry (e.g. a 3 wythe or 12” brick wall) allows water to penetrate through cracks and joints in the outer layers and keeps the inside dry by having a width thicker than the wind driven rain can penetrate. After the rain has stopped, the moisture which has been absorbed will be released to the exterior and dry the masonry. During the Winter, uninsulated masonry is warmed by heating of the interior, which also assists in driving out the moisture. This simple concept has generally worked well. Several historic events including the great fires of Chicago and New York, introduced new elements to building and facade construction and various architectural styles or copies of styles. The development of wrought iron, cast iron, and eventually structural steel in the mid 1800’s, led to the technology race to develop “fireproof construction”. The period between about the 1880’s to the 1940’s has diverse and very interesting structural framing types and facade types made possible by these events and developments. Typical floor systems of the period include Terra Cotta flat and segmental arches, Metropolitan floors, and Cinder slabs. These fireproofed floors coupled with cast iron columns, steel or wrought iron
20 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
beams and eventually all steel skeletal framing allowed the exciting skyscraper race to develop. With this new skeletal framing came a necessary change in facades. A load bearing brick “barrier” facade could no longer be reasonably built to a height of 20 stories. Here is an example of a classic building and facade system we see quite often in the NY metropolitan area. A 1920’s apartment building with an all steel skeletal frame and cinder concrete slabs reinforced with a draped wire mesh (same technology as the Empire State Building). The facade is typically brick exterior with an 8” terra cotta tile backup. The terra cotta is supported by the concrete slab edge and the brick stacks the
height of the building with a common running bond with headers or row lock courses every 6th course. The challenge for today, is that typically the edge of the steel I beams are just behind the exterior brick (4”) and built without flashing or waterproofing. Fast forward almost 100 years and the wind driven rain breaking through washed out sacrificial mortar, freeze thaw cycles etc, leads to the corrosion of the structural steel. Corrosion or rusting is a chemical reaction of iron in the steel, water, and oxygen. The rusting of the steel will cause the exterior masonry to bulge out. This can often be seen when looking up the facade of the building. The forces developed from corrosion are so strong that they can jack up a building. These jacking forces crack the brick which is in compression. The cracks allow more water to enter and a vicious cycle develops which can rapidly deteriorate a building. Due to weather patterns in this part of the country, the south and west facades at the upper floors tend to exhibit the worst deterioration, primarily from wind driven rain. The fix is conceptually simple, but often hard to police in the field. The outer brick is removed and shored above to expose the deteriorated framing. This framing is then scraped, power brushed, and reinforced with new welded plates, channel sections, etc. to restore the lost capacity. Generally the structural engineer is tasked with sizing this reinforcement based on field measurements and guesstimates on the amount of loss. Once the structural capacity is restored, the steel is then coated with a rust preservative coating or galvanized steel is used and the steel I beams are packed out with masonry, tied back to the steel and flashed. There are many flashing materials available on the market today including; copper with fabric backing, self-adhering rubberized asphalts, and some liquid applied membranes. Copper or stainless steel are also viable materials for the in wall flashings. The key is to use common sense and logic and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations completely. Above windows, there is typically a hung lintel. The flashing on this lintel should extend several brick courses above the steel and end with a stainless steel termination bar or terminated with a cut reglet. The ends of the lintel need end dams turned up to create a “bathtub”. Metal flashing is usually installed over the lintel with a drip edge and which extends approx. 1/2” past the facade. The flashing materials listed above tie into this metal and extend further up the wall. If copper is used, then a divorcing layer of membrane or paint is required so you do not have galvanic action between the dissimilar materials. It is also tempting to designers not to show the flashing due to the change in aesthetics it causes. This can allow water to travel around and back under the flashing thus negating the work done to protect the structure from water. The main idea is to introduce waterproofing to extend the life of the structure. Typically, this is only done at the areas where deterioration has been exhibited due to cost and other practicalities. A more challenging version on low rise period buildings is a hybrid version where there are no vertical steel columns. It is interesting on these buildings to see how the technology has slowly changed. A scenario we have encountered was a 3 Wythe brick load bearing structure with interior steel columns and girders with wood infill framing. The wood bearing on the exterior wall
and at large window openings was supported by a steel girder buried in the inner Wythe. This true load bearing condition created shoring and installation challenges for the new steel reinforcing and flashing. In addition to bricks, other facade elements were quite common including decorative corner quoins, glazed architectural terra cotta motifs, limestone panels and balconies and cast stone. Glazed architectural terra cotta is often quite beautiful but difficult to deal with in the field. The technology was basically developed as a cheap way of copying and mass producing carved stone work from previous old world architecture. A great example of this facade material in use, is on the Woolworth Building in NYC. These pieces were built from a mold and not solid. They were installed with various iron and steel crimps and straps. The buildings that tend to be in better shape typically were mortared or grouted solid with few voids. This has allowed less water to penetrate and corrode the steel anchorage and lessened the impact on freeze thaw. Total replacement of these elements is quite a challenge. We have been involved in jobs where new terra cotta is used, generally from one of a few manufactures such as Boston Valley Terra Cotta and Gladding McBean. Another solution is to replicate the pieces in GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete). This is often less expensive and very light weight. It does however, require a structural backup system where structural stainless steel tubes, bars, and angles are used to create that backup structure. It is somewhat ironic that in order to preserve a facade with historic glazed architectural terra cotta pieces in something like GFRC, one is making a copy of something that was a copy of historic stone work which was probably a copy of ancient wood carvings. Perhaps someday something like GFRC will be considered quite important. When doing any of the above repairs, it is imperative that flashings be installed to protect the elements being repaired so they can last for extended periods and provide proper service. Ciro Cuono, P.E., LEED AP, is a principal at Cuono Engineering PLLC, Port Chester, NY. He can be reached at ccuono@cuonoengineering.com. Bruce Darling is principal and founder of BPD Roof Consulting, East Granby Ct. He can be reached at bruce@bpdrci.com
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 21
Feature
After Super Storm Sandy: A Westchester architect visits Breezy Point by jason taylor, AIA
As architects, we were the first people they had heard from who could actually guide them properly towards re-building. Three months after Hurricane Sandy, my associate
Nick and I found ourselves in the car of a resident of Breezy Point, New York, touring the destruction left in the wake of the storm. We witnessed the charred remains of one hundred and twenty-six homes that burned in eighty mile per hour winds. We drove along the beach and saw homes pushed off their foundations by waves, homes that had collapsed and homes tipped over so far they were actually leaning on neighboring homes. Virtually every building in this community was swamped in several feet of flood water. All the basements were flooded, HVAC equipment was ruined, and foundations were undermined or cracked. It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before. We had come to Breezy Point at the behest of Jim Killoran from Habitat for Humanity of Westchester. Jim had asked us to come down and give a lesson on how to build flood
22 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
and wind resistant homes. When we arrived, Jim had set up a one room building as a classroom where around twenty-five local homeowners waited to hear if we could provide any helpful information. We spoke about base flood elevations, piers, piles, wind strapping, stick framing, modular construction, SIP panels, fire resistant siding, codes, insurance and anything else we could think of to help the people in this devastated community. We took questions for about half-an-hour, then spoke with individual families. This wasn’t our first experience with storm damaged homes. We worked with Habitat for Humanity rebuilding a home destroyed by the Mamaroneck River flood in 2007. We’ve worked on several homes damaged by Hurricane Irene in 2011. I’ve even had to partially rebuild my own home after a powerful nor’easter in 2010 brought a massive pine tree down onto our roof. But the damage and recovery efforts
after Sandy were of an entirely different and unfamiliar scale. Breezy Point is a beach community at the tip of the Rockaway peninsula. Despite its rows of bungalows and apparent vacation homes it is technically part of New York City and under the jurisdiction of the New York City Department of Buildings (NYC DOB). For even the smallest projects, working
with the NYC DOB and its full inspection regime is complicated, time consuming and expensive. Breezy Point’s
geographic isolation from the rest of New York City and the community’s status as a cooperative governed by its own rules, created a situation where residential renovations and additions have often skirted the city’s bureaucracy and were completed with little oversight or input from architects and engineers. Many of the homes that we saw had major additions on them, some with second stories built right on top of the original wood frames and unreinforced block foundations. One home we toured had a side addition built directly on an old concrete patio with no footings; I imagine that work like this was not uncommon throughout Breezy Point. Without oversight these structures never received any mandated code upgrades. Walls were not braced for wind, foundations were not raised or reinforced for flooding and wave action. The hodgepodge of building elements and construction techniques exacerbated the damage from the storm making it tremendously difficult to repair these homes properly. Hurricane Sandy fallout has brought with it inspections and government agencies. Most of the homes have been labeled as “substantially damaged” and must now be brought up to code. That should be a good thing; it should mean that the new or repaired homes will be elevated above flood levels, braced for wind and waves and insulated to meet new energy codes. It
should mean that future storms will no longer disrupt so many lives and cost so much money. But the reality is
that these families are faced with the fact that there is really no sensible way to follow the rules and save the homes that they love; homes that they have worked hard on and invested in, homes that, in many cases have been in their families for generations. Perhaps the greatest obstacle for families with flood damaged homes is that they can barely afford to repair the damage, let alone build back properly. Many of the residents have no mortgages and subsequently no flood insurance. Even the families with flood insurance have found their settlements to be woefully inadequate. After talking to many residents, I heard that flood insurance settlements were hovering around $75,000 to $100,000, with an opportunity for an additional $30,000 for code upgrades. The technical challenges of raising these homes six to ten feet above grade to meet FEMA flood elevation requirements is compounded by code requirements for wind bracing and energy compliance. Over the years many of these homes have evolved from quaint bungalows into much larger two story homes. The unorthodox and unpredictable construction of these homes makes trying to save them a truly futile endeavor. To do this right, they should be torn down, built new, and built strong. But building in New York is expensive, especially with the full regulatory apparatus of the NYC DOB monitoring the whole process. For these families to get the living space they had before, I estimate the average family will need at least three times as much
as their insurance companies are offering. Over and over I heard that the families whose homes burned down are the lucky ones. They will get full replacement value as well as temporary accommodations from their homeowners’ insurance. Indeed, recent reports from Breezy Point indicate the vast majority of reconstruction is happening specifically in the burned down section of town. The families with only flood damage are still displaced and in limbo. Some have understandably defied the authorities, repaired their old homes and moved back in, willing to risk that another storm could destroy their home yet again. FEMA along with the City and State government have offered information and help. But none of the residents I spoke with had a definite path forward based on information they had been provided. Less than half the people we met were even aware that they would need to file for building permits, and they all will require permits. Nick and I didn’t go to Breezy Point hoping to get any work. But after we spoke, we were approached by several families, to see if they could hire us. As architects, we were the first
people they had heard from who could actually guide them properly towards re-building. In us, I think they saw
a way forward, and I could sense their desperation. I would like to think we spoke eloquently, but there was nothing special about what we said. It’s simply that they really need architects. The truth is that all along, for decades, they’ve needed architects. They need us now, and they needed us before. As a profession we’ve failed to let the public know that architects should be their first resource for just about anything they do with their homes or buildings. This is true even when there is no disaster from which to recover. People don’t know what we do, and they don’t know where to find us. When I told some of the families what an architect can do for them, most admitted that they never thought about an architect. They talk to contractors, insurance adjusters and well meaning family and friends; many of whom provide all sorts of inaccurate information and questionable advice. We are the professionals that can tie all the pieces together. We can help homeowners navigate the Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 23
reconstruction of their homes and communities. Sadly for many in Breezy Point it may be too late for our help. A lack of funds, decades of questionable construction, a strong “do-it local and do-it-yourself ” home improvement tradition, along with the daunting codes and zoning rules of New York City, have brought us to a place where there is not much even architects can do today. For a few months I kept in touch with one homeowner named Tom. He was living with his wife and two kids in a rental nearby while trying to figure out what to do with his flood damaged home. Tom told me how he had tried to ride out the storm. He felt his house sway back and forth as the wind whipped off the ocean. He listened to the framing crack and groan frighteningly until he was forced to evacuate as the tidal surge rolled in. I went back to Breezy Point to visit Tom’s home and see if I could offer some guidance. The family had built a large addition on their house just a few years earlier. The addition had completed a dream for this family and they were very happy there. As I toured the house with its walls and floor stripped down to expose the wood frame, I could clearly see that none of the addition was built to survive wind forces. I explained to Tom that with every sway back and forth, the connections holding his house together had gotten looser and looser. Given the home’s condition, a new house would probably cost the same as attempting to elevate the house and repair it. Either way, between insurance and savings, he could not afford to get his home back.
He had filed some paperwork to get additional money from the government and was waiting nervously for a response. It’s been many months since we last spoke, and from reports I’ve read about Breezy Point I can only assume that Tom, like most of his neighbors is still searching for a way to rebuild. On a more hopeful note, my firm has recently completed construction documents for a new, modern, flood-proof, energyefficient, home in Long Beach just fourteen miles east of Breezy Point. It will replace an old bungalow destroyed by the storm. We expect construction to begin this Spring. Long Beach, which on average sits just six feet above sea level, suffered similar devastation to Breezy Point with virtually every home on the island, sustaining “substantial damage.” But Long Beach is part of Nassau County and has a small and very helpful building department. It has an uncomplicated zoning ordinance and follows the Building Code of the State of New York. I spoke with the Long Beach Commissioner of Buildings recently; He expects at least 800 homes to be re-built in the next year. All of these homes will be elevated and safe from future storms. A few weeks ago, I walked up and down the streets in the Long Beach neighborhood where we are working. As I passed each neighbor’s house I smiled as I saw a single punched hole in each home’s front walkway, a telltale sign that soil borings were taken. That means that architects and engineers have been hired and the necessary ground work has begun to build new and build properly.
Join us Tuesday March 4th for a night of fun at Spins Bowl at Grand Prix. Register online www.aiawhv.org
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Feature
Fear and loathing at Design Review Boards: Part III by John D. Fry, aia, leed ap bd+c
Does the design review process yield better results than a process that incorporates no design review?
The third installment of this series will continue to examine the challenges presented by the Design Review Board process and explore strategies for successful navigation through this process. The core elements of these strategies were identified during a panel discussion hosted by AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley in conjunction with Westchester Municipal Planning Federation. The program was entitled, Navigating the Design Review Process, and included a panel discussion at the Chapter’s Expo event in October 2013. Panel participants included: • Jerome Kerner AIA, Architect • Elizabeth Parks AIA, Architect • Valerie Monastra,Village of Ossining Planner • Christian Miller, City of Rye Planner • Lee Ellman, City of Yonkers Planning Director
Responses from previous articles in this series and attendee comments expressed during the October panel discussion share common elements. The observation most commonly shared is a majority of Design Review Boards are not composed of design professionals. Many seven member boards have one or two design professionals with the remaining board members (in theory) representing other building and development professions. Often boards have a more diverse membership which may include a wide range of interested community members with no experience in the design, construction or real estate professions. 26 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
This circumstance does not automatically mean a particular board will be inept at understanding a proposed application. Some communities view that distilling questions and observations into meaningful and productive commentary can be accomplished by all astute board members. However, real world experiences suggest nonbuilding profession board members tend to be challenged in understanding drawings and technical information along with maintaining a focus on what the board is charged to review and on what to comment. Other common observations include the trend that effective boards follow effective leadership via the chairperson’s seat. This effective board management is often in conjunction with a defined mission and good support tools like design guideline documents. The signature struggles during the design review board process have been examined in the previous two articles. This article’s goal is to move beyond the frustrating portions of the process and discuss strategies for improving the process. These strategies fall into two primary paths: 1. The global path which seeks to improve the overall process 2. The pragmatic path which seeks to incrementally manage each aspect of the process to improve the linear flow The universal question for either path, (or the process in general), is, “Does the design review board process yield better design results than a process that incorporates no design review?” Therein lays the rub. This question is not in play in this discussion as I believe it is safe to say design review boards
are here to stay no matter what the consensus view is regarding their accomplishments. Design Review Boards have existed for over 25 years in many communities. They have surfaced in most areas of this country and are also surfacing globally and I believe the desire for individuals and communities to have a collective standing in all areas of community management, is consistent with societal entitlement. The genesis of Design Review Boards can be traced back to the creation of historic districts and the desire to better manage our built environment. From this arose the aesthetic, legal, and individual commitment support that can be found in boards today. Those subsequent historic review boards and commissions evolved to manage the past, present and future physical, social and financial prosperity of those districts. On the individual side, the idea of being better stewards of our community fabric is universally embraced as good and noble. This trend, as it relates to influencing and managing design via civic means and methods, can be traced back to the first Design Review Board formed: the Vieux Carrie Commission, the historic review board charged with managing the deterioration of the Vieux Carrie in New Orleans (aka ‘French Quarter). The legal foundation for Design Review Boards is also linked to the creation of the first historic districts and subsequent historic review boards and commissions. The legal concepts which grew out of the historic districts legal concepts, have been court tested and have prevailed in the majority of cases. In my view, the single most important strategy, for globally improving the design review process is for architects and other design professionals, is to become more active in one’s own community governance. Many of us who serve on design review boards share mixed feelings regarding this service. I find myself constantly balancing my personal observations with the specific charges to our board based on the Village Code language and remind other board members of the fairly narrow bandwidth of commentary which we are allowed to provide to an applicant. As an applicant appearing in front of other boards, I sometimes see familiar elements of board members wandering off the defined path of commentary. Whether you serve on a board or actively influence and lobby your community leaders towards effective means and methods for design review, it is important that you become engaged in your community. Any improvements that can/ will be made as architects, start with assisting your community in improving the process. Many communities have developed reference documents beyond the basic zoning language to better delineate aesthetic goals and desires. The purpose and benefit of these design guidelines is to provide a higher level of communication between municipality and applicant. Promoting advanced communication is a direction that all design professionals need to actively promote in their respective communities. Standing on the sidelines and criticizing the process is not a productive option. I strongly believe this is one of the areas in which AIA members can separate themselves from non-AIA members. Strategies for navigating the Design Review Board process vary with the scale of each project, yet not without common elements . For example, the single family residence review process obviously differs greatly from a regional shopping
center project review, yet several common elements are explored in the design review board process. The core element in this discussion is, your design should reflect your client’s program and the fundamental design elements as an extension of the program. As opposed to, designing the project to get it approved. Ultimately, there may be areas of compromise, so the first element of preparing for the Design Review Board process is to understand the nature and perspective of compromise. That is to say compromises may depend on what side of the application you represent. Engaging in the art of compromise is an important skill set for design professionals to develop according to all sides of the discussion. This is not to suggest abandoning a strong commitment to specific elements of your design and your client’s goals during the review process, it is simply to frame the reality that it is difficult, if not impossible, to find uncompromising design in contemporary society, even among ‘Starchitects’. Embracing Howard Roark heroism is indeed admirable if it is pliable enough to keep your core design elements intact. Many individuals and boards would characterize this type of heroism as a flaw, if it yields an impasse with a Design Review Board. The next level of strategy is fundamental to the architecture profession. It is one of the core elements to our education. These are skills which cannot become stagnate in your repertoire, and cannot be emphasized enough. The art of excellent communication can be your best tool in advancing your design and your clients’ interests. This communication excellence
is divided equally between: speaking skills, writing skills and graphic skills. Successful navigation of the design review process cannot be accomplished without competence in all three.
Good reconnaissance is an important element to any process and is especially critical in navigating the design review process. Often good reconnaissance begins with informal meetings with neighbors and other stake holders. A knowledgeable applicant is a well received applicant no matter what the proposal. Good reconnaissance continues with understanding: Who are the design review board members? What are their names and professions? Who are the extended community representatives that may appear to speak on behalf of stake holders? What are important attributes of the community for which the project is proposed? What are the strengths and weaknesses of your design and application?
No design and application are perfect so recognizing these elements and speaking to them in a straightforward manner during the review process tends to garner sincere appreciation by board members who have heard many applicants speak to the wonder of their proposal. Because all applications exist in context; rural, suburban, urban, economically challenged or affluent; historic or contemporary; an extension of existing built environment or a signature project, the specific project constraints and opportunities should be recognized and properly articulated during the design review process, in order to achieve one’s goals. Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 27
Feature
Land of 10,000 Lakes and Windows by rick torres, aia
Travelers have mistaken it for a welcome center at the Canadian border Actually, it’s closer to 16,000 lakes. This I learned in August as part of a seven person group that had the opportunity to travel to Minnesota as a guest of Marvin Windows and Doors. We were escorted by Steve Ihlenburg, our chapter’s Architectural Representative for Super Enterprises of Melville, New York. Steve is our chapter’s go-to resource for Marvin. We departed LGA early on a gloomy August Tuesday morning for Minneapolis–St. Paul, yet arrived in the bright and sunny twin cities. After a direct shuttle over to our hotel and a quick deposit of our luggage, we were back in the van for an exciting day of architectural treasure building tour. On the tour, we had the pleasure of viewing work from Charles Lazor, Edward Larrabee Barnes, Herzog & de Meuron, Cesar Pelli, Gunner Birkerts, Philip Johnson and John Burgee and others. Unfortunately, time did not allow us to visit works by Frank Lloyd Wright and Frank Gehry, but it is safe to say the Twin Cities have their fair share of great projects. I would have liked to get to another great building, Target Field, to take in a Twins game but my legs could only do so much. After a well earned rest the next morning we were off to Warroad, MN via
28 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
one of four aircraft operated by Marvin. Warroad is the home to Marvin, although they do have other manufacturing sites. A few years ago Marvin constructed a training center that contains classrooms, a museum, a gift shop, dining and catering capabilities as well as office spaces. Because of its presence, travelers have mistaken it for a Welcome Center at the Canadian border, which is six miles up the road. The remainder of the day was spent in classroom training and on tours of the manufacturing plant. The building covers many acres and we saw every last bit of it. There go those old legs again. Our plant tour guide, 10 year Marvin Veteran Lonnie Swanson, was knowledgeable, entertaining and knew everyone in the plant. Lonnie was also our classroom instructor. We were brought up to speed on the latest Marvin features, innovations and techniques. The Integrity window line was the subject of one of the classes. The Marvin Signature group gave another class covering their incredible capabilities in replicating historic window details, including the use of 3-D plotting technologies that allows them to produce mock-ups and samples out of plastics for architect and client approval.
What does one do with one’s evenings in Warroad, Minnesota? One option is to visit The Shed. The Shed is a collection 90 rare cars personally owned by one of the Marvin family members - and it is open to the public. Our host was a Marvin family friend who knew every car detail and loved sharing his knowledge. Cars on-site include: FDR’s limousine, a Shelby Cobra, GTOs, Camaros, Corvettes and Pinky Tuscadero’s Pink Cadillac from Happy Days. We were put up at The Patch Motel across the street from the plant. Lonnie took us to breakfast the next morning at a great spot on the shores of Lake of the Woods, one of Minnesota’s 16,000+ lakes. There was a Coast Guard Station nearby and we learned that Minnesota has more coastline than California, Florida and Hawaii combined. Then we returned to the plant for our last tour and to the training center for our last classroom session before our return flight. I want to extent a sincere thanks to Steve Ihlenburg, who offers this opportunity several times a year and encourages all interested to visit. I myself will certainly one day return to Warroad, and enthusiastically suggest you join me.
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 29
Event Highlights
Soireé 77: A Chapter Anniversary Celebration Held at Garcia’s at The Capitol Theater in Port Chester December 16, 2013 Photography by Peter Krupenye
Chapter members, professional affiliates, legislators and public advocates joined together to celebrate seventy-seven years of the Chapter’s accomplishments and to celebrate individuals and companies accomplishments of their own as well as the chapter’s success. The fun, festive formal, social evening enjoyed by colleagues and allied professionals was filled with food, spirits, networking, socializing and live entertainment. Attendees were also led on exclusive tours of the historic venue visiting the back of house spaces including the green room and backstage area. Candid photos of the legendary artists that have performed at the theater adorned the walls throughout the building on each floor - evidence of the rich history of the venue. The tours also provided insight into the recent renovations the theater has undergone, which respectfully restored the original architecture simultaneously providing the required modern technology to create a versatile entertainment venue. The event really picked up with live music by SKYFACTOR, a local band led by one of our own Board Members, Jason Taylor. Special recognitions honored during the presentation of the night include: • Russell A. Davidson, FAIA, chapter member and AIAWHV past president of who was inducted into the AIA College of Fellows this past June • Amy Paulin, NYS Assemblywomen, as Legislative Honoree for being selected by AIANYS as Legislator of the Year. • Sustainable Playland as Public Honoree, for their vision and endeavor to revitalize historic Rye Playland • OLA Consulting Engineers as Allied Professional Honoree, for their long standing commitment to our chapter and excellence in MEP engineering • Brittany Grannan, Associate AIA, as AIAWHV Honoree, for her special contributions with our chapter’s graphic images/standards upgrade endeavors NOTES: In addition to receiving his honor, Russell A. Davidson pleasantly surprised those in attendance with the news that he is running for AIA National President Elect. We wish him luck as he pursues his candidacy and hope to celebrate his electoral success next year at Soirée ’78. Beginning in 2014, an ARE scholarship will be awarded to Chapter Associates. More information will be distributed later this year about the criteria. This is an exciting service the chapter is happy to now offer it’s associate members as it joins AIA National and AIA NY State in providing licensure scholarships. We want to thank all of our sponsors that helped make the night a success and for sharing in our celebration: Damiano Barile Engineers, PC; OLA Consulting Engineers; MechoSystems; Mohawk Industries; Napco; Sika Sarnafil; Sinnreich, Kosakoff, & Messina LLP; Walker Zanger; Acme Stage & Sports; CW Brown; Michael Halebian & Company, Inc; RVP Flooring Systems; Task Floors; and Wolf Gordon. Don’t be left out next year! Soirée ‘78 will be in full force at the end of this year. Watch for Save the Date information to be released soon. 30 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 31
Feature
AIAWHV 2013 Design Awards: A Celebration of Architecture by julie evans, AIA, LEED AP
From posting the call for entries, to processing submissions, to coordinating a jury, to planning the Gala, the design awards cycle spans 8 months of committee involvement. This year, we received 41 submissions, ranging from health centers to college cafeterias to corporate campuses to impeccably restored churches to inventive lighting installations to high-performance high-end residences to workforce housing, built and un-built. The jury was held on Oct. 8, at NYIT Old Westbury Campus on Long Island. The jury was comprised of four AIA LI chapter members. The jury deliberated for about 4 hours, and granted 18 awards. The winning projects achieved excellence in delightful and inspiring ways, and represented the breadth and vitality and of our chapter area. Erik Kaeyer and I traveled to Old Westbury to guide the jury, and it was an invigorating morning. The jurors were generous with their time, serious in their deliberations, and as excited as we were at the range of submissions – thoughtful, poetic, and ambitious. I had the pleasure of calling the winners, some of whom had submitted work for the first time! The Celebration of Architecture Gala was held November 6, 2013 at the Mary S. Pinkham Hall at Rye Country Day School. This project had received a Design Award from our Chapter Design Awards program in 2012.
Event Sponsors
O’Dea Lynch Abbattista Engineers Weyerhauser
The Jury
Roger P, Smith, AIA, LEED AP, Principal, BBS Architects, Landscape Architects, & Engineers, PC Robert Cody, AIA LEED AP, Chair, Old Westbury Architecture Department Martin N. Hero, AIA, President, Hero Architects John A. Notaro, AIA, NGA Architects
Awards Committee
Julie Evans, Sandy Mintzes, Michael Gallin, Erika Conradt, Erik Kaeyer, Michiko Kishi I invite those of you who have not yet participated in the awards program to submit your work! Pulling back, assessing your work, distilling project images and intentions for a jury is a great investment in your practice. 32 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
2013 DESIGN AWARDS SINGLE FAMILY
High Honor Award: A HOUSE IN THE WOODS Hudson Valley, NY
ARCHITECT: WILLIAM REUE ARCHITECT MEP Engineering: D’Antonio Consulting Engineers Structural Engineering: Ross Dalland Sustainability Consultant: Integral Building and Design Surveyor: Mercurio, Norton and Taroli Home Automation: Everglades Technology Cabinetry: Cabinets by Stanley Contractor: Sisca Northeast Photography: Steve Freihon
Located on a densely forested slope in the Hudson Valley, A House in the Woods is the result of the studied relationship between two opposing geometries - a long sculptural wall clad in Cor-Ten weathering steel and a mass of stratified bluestone that appears to have emerged from the boulder-strewn earth. The heroic wall is pragmatically justified as it organizes the interior spaces into a series of cinmetaic portals to the landscape and carves out a modest entry court that amplifies the sound of the stream running parallel to the house. The use of locally-sourced materials and strategic siting stitch the house into the natural world while contributing to its sustainability for a modern one.
34 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
Honor Award: CLOVERHILL FARM ARCHITECT: CAROL KURTH ARCHITECTURE, PC + CAROL KURTH INTERIORS, LTD Design Team: Carol J.W. Kurth, FAIA, LEED AP Christine Lent, AIA, Project Architect, John E. Rapetti, Assoc. AIA, Tina Schwab, Sr. Interior Designer. Samantha Marino, Design Liaison Contractor: Legacy Development Northeast, LLC Nicole Reiss, Project Manager Structural Engineer: E2 Engineering Landscape Consultant: Diane Bilgore, DAB Design Photography: Peter Krupenye
2013 DESIGN AWARDS SINGLE FAMILY
Architect Carol Kurth, FAIA, and her team, transformed Cloverhill Farm, a 21-acre old-world farmstead into a striking, museum-like environment complemented by a warm, stone palette and verdant landscape. The design team created a dramatic new arrival sequence, and opened the home’s interior spaces by recessing ceiling heights and replacing columns with larger, loadbearing beams. Overall, the design heightens the home’s drama and elegance in a way that is refined and holistically modern.
Citation Award: TAYLOR RESIDENCE Hastings on Hudson, NY
ARCHITECT: CHRISTINA GRIFFIN ARCHITECT Photography: Josefa Mulaire & Suzanne Levine
The Taylor Residence is a complete renovation and extension of a 1948 ranch home, transforming it into a modern house with glass walls and multiple decks capturing views of the Hudson River and Palisades. The project is located at 60 Summit Drive in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. The architect is Christina Griffin, AIA, LEED AP, principal of Christina Griffin Architect PC.
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 35
2013 DESIGN AWARDS MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
Honor Award: FACADE IMPROVEMENTS TO PAUL F CULLUM APARTMENTS North Bergen, NJ
ARCHITECT: LOTHROP ASSOCIATES, LLP
This project involved a multi-phased facade restoration to an existing 17 story high rise residential building that was constructed in 1973. The project scope included installation of a weather barrier over the existing facade, heavy gauge metal framing, and new thermal insulation covered by a new facade consisting of composite and stone panels.
Design Team: Design Partner - James D. Lothrop, AIA, FASID, NCARB, Technical Partner - George Rosamond, AIA, FCSI, Senior Associate / Project Manager Arthur J. Seckler, III, Associate AIA Photography: Peter Krupenye
Citation Award: 22 TARRYTOWN ROAD WORKFORCE HOUSING Town of Greenburgh, NY
ARCHITECT: MAGNUSSON ARCHITECTURE AND PLANNING, PC MEP Engineer: Ettinger Engineering Associates Structural Engineer: Goldstein Associates Consulting Engineers Civil Engineer: TRC Engineers, Inc. Landscape Architect: Pouder Design Group Sustainability Consultant: Steven Winter Associates General Contractor: Sisca Northeast, Inc. Photography: Ari Burling Photography
36 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
22 Tarrytown Road is located in the Town of Greenburgh, NY and is within walking distance to the White Plains MetroNorth station. Developed by Westhab, Inc., it consists of a three-story, 28-unit workforce family development including a cellar, community room, laundry facility, green roof and parking. The massing of the building is articulated in a series of vertical volumes and a combination of fiber cement facade materials to break the horizontality of the 3-story design. 22 Tarrytown Road includes a 6,000-square foot green roof which will reduce the amount of peak stormwater runoff into the sewer system and improve the quality of water that flows into the rivers and streams.
2013 DESIGN AWARDS INSTITUTIONAL
Honor Award: WEST SIDE DINING Stony Brook, NY
ARCHITECT: KSQ ARCHITECTS PC Design Team: Armand Quadrini, AIA, LEED AP - Principal-In-Charge; Douglas Chu - Project Manager; David W. Short, AIA/ Chester Ehrig/ Shannon Meyer, RID, IIDA, LEED AP - Project Designers Consultant Team: Food Services: Ricca Newmark Design - David Chislett MEP/ Fire Protection: LKB Engineers - Babar Zia Structural Design: GACE - Chok-Pan Wong Civil Eningeering/ Landscape: BL Companies - Paul Curcio Lighting Design: Karen Goldstick Karen Goldstick, Carlin Simpson, Meredith Anke LEED: Horizon Engineering - Dan Forino Commissioning: Horizon Engineering - Ryan Lynch Consultant Team: J.Kokolakis Contracting Inc.- Jim Kyroglou, Project Executive Photography: Melissa Lukenbaugh Photography This university needed a dining hall renovation and addition to better serve a diverse range of student groups. The new design provides a strong visual connection to the surrounding wooded environment and the pedestrian culture of the campus. The result transforms a dated, traditional, dining hall into a modern, 24/7 campus-wide dining facility on track to achieve LEED Silver.
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 37
2013 DESIGN AWARDS INSTITUTIONAL
Honor Award: DARIEN LIBRARY Darien, CT
ARCHITECT: PETER GISOLFI ASSOCIATES Design Team: Peter Gisolfi, AIA, ASLA, LEED AP; Sandra Mintzes, AIA, LEED AP; Frank X. Craine, AIA, LEED AP; Ari Engelman, RA, Cheng-hsun Wu, RA, LEED AP; Ronen Wilk, RLA MEP: AKF Group LLC Structural: Anastos Engineering Associates, PC Sustainability: Viridian Energy & Environmental, LLC Site/Civil: Stearns & Wheeler, LLC Theatrical Systems: Harvey Marshall Berling Associates Cost Estimator: Daedalus Projects, Inc. Lighting: Goldstick Lighting Design, LTD Roofing: Watsky Associates Code: Bruce J. Spiewak, AIA Photography: Robert Mintzes
The new Darien Library is influenced by its setting, by new ideas about library usage and organization, by advances in information technology, and by theories of sustainable design; it was the first LEED Gold certified public library in New England. The building is traditional in its exterior massing and materials, but is timeless, interconnected, and transparent in its interior architecture.
Honor Award: THE WINWARD SCHOOL White Plains, NY
ARCHITECT: PETER GISOLFI ASSOCIATES Design Team: Peter Gisolfi, AIA, ASLA, LEED AP; Frank Craine, AIA, LEED AOP, Crosby Scott; Belle Chen Taylor; Richard Price; Maria Karsanidi MEP: O’dea Lynch Abbattista Structural Engineers: Anastos Engineering Theatrical Systems: Harvey Marshall Berling Cost Estimating: James Diamantopoulos Acoustics: Jaffe Holden Roofing: Watsky Associates Code: Bruce J. Spiewak, AIA Photographer: Robert Mintzes
A new center for the Teacher Training Institute has been built on the Middle School campus. The building serves two distinct purposes: provide the spaces needed to meet the increasing demand for training and outreach, and support the needs of the Middle School for instruction, recreation, assembly and performances. The form and placement of the new TTI building create a central courtyard between the existing Middle School building and the WTTI. This courtyard functions as the “Town Square” for the campus. The two-story, 16,500 square foot building contains two small lecture rooms and one large multipurpose lecture hall which are connected to each other by a generous lobby and single-loaded corridor; all of the circulation spaces look out to the central courtyard. In addition, there are offices and meeting rooms for the Teacher Training Institute and the Middle School. 38 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
2013 DESIGN AWARDS INSTITUTIONAL
Citation Award: ROSLYN HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA COMMONS Roslyn, NY
ARCHITECT: KG&D ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS, PC Design Team: Russell A. Davidson, FAIA – Project Executive; Erik A. Kaeyer, AIA, LEED AP – Design Principal; Susan Davidson – Interior Designer; Travis Schnell – Architect Consultants: MEP Engineers: Damiano Barile Consulting Engineers Structural Engineer: Nachman Engineering Project Specifications: Falk Associates Independent Cost Estimator: Nasco Construction Services Food Service Consultant: Clevenger Frable LaVallee Photography: © David Lamb Photography 2011
Transformation of an aging series of disconnected cafeteria spaces by KG&D Architects & Engineers, PC of Mount Kisco, NY created a cohesive, technology-rich cafetera commons for students at Roslyn High School. The challenges were to open up and unify existing space, gain seating capacity, and create a thoroughly modern commons that encouraged students to stay on campus. The design solution removed walls to create a bright open commons with day lighting, gained 162 additional seats in a more flexible configuration, and created an engaging 21st Century media commons.
Citation Award: HUDSON SPINE & PAIN CONSULTANTS New York, NY
ARCHITECT: LOTHROP ASSOCIATES, LLP Design Team: Partner In Charge - John Cutsumpas, AIA,NCARB; Director of Healthcare/Project Director - Philip Cerniglia, AIA, NCARB; Interior Design - Lori Saccardi; Job Captain - Wayne Karabinos Mechanical/Electrical/Fire Protection Engineer: Syska Hennessy Group (Project Director: Timothy Krawetz P .E., Vice President, Production Manager: Patrick McDonald, P.E., LEED AP) Pain Management ASC Physician Practice (Hudson Spine and Pain Consultants) is a 5,000 square foot medical office located in Tribeca, Manhattan, NY, along Broadway, with a $1.2 million construction cost. The office was designed around the client’s theme of holistic patient-centered healing. The focus of the design is a circular reception desk created as a metaphor for holistic healthcare while simultaneously anchoring the space as an organizing element both functionally and aesthetically. Similarly, the holistic approach to healing as represented by the circle is portrayed and referenced throughout the corridors, offices, and procedure rooms, and depiced in design elements including desks, walls, ceiling soffits, furniture fabric, artwork, and floor patterns. The functional plan provides smooth patient/ staff process flow and privacy while simultaneously inviting natural light to penetrate and brighten the space. We achieved the client’s desires of a soothing, restful, healing space, with the sincerity necessary to deal with the complexity of patient issues. Patients enter and leave the space feeling rejuvenated. Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 39
2013 DESIGN AWARDS UNBUILT
Honor Award: HUDSON RIVER HEALTHCARE, INC Peekskill, NY
Architect: GALLIN BEELER DESIGN STUDIO PLLC Design Team: Raymond Beeler, Teresa Marboe Owner’s Advocate: PAC MEP Engineer: OLA Consulting Engineers, PC Landscape Architect: Lee Weintraub Landscape Architecture, LLC Sustainability Consultant: YR&G Structural Engineer: The Di Salvo Ericson Group Images: Gallin Beeler Design Studio
This project is the proposed renovation and expansion of Hudson River HealthCare, a notfor-profit federally qualified health center located in Peekskill, NY. The two historic buildings on the site will be renovated and united into a cohesive facility by a new 5,200 s.f. addition.
Citation Award: DCSPCA ADOPTION AND EDUCATION CENTER - PHASE 1A Hyde Park, NY
Architect: ROLANDO KRAEHER, ARCHITECT Structural Engineer: Robert Silman Associates MEP Engineer: Landmark Facilities Group Civil Engineer: Rohde Soyka & Andrews Constructed Wetlands Consultant: New England Waste Systems Lighting Design Consultant: Melanie Freundlich Lighting Design Code Consultant: William Dailey Cost Consultant: Slocum Consulting Specifications Consultant: Construction Specifications Renderings: Dawid Pol, RA
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The project is the new Adoption and Education Center for the Dutchess County SPCA in the town of Hyde Park, New York, and is the first phase of a six phase multi-year project. It is situated within the client’s 32.6 acre property and will serve as the entry gate to all future buildings. The project was designed to increase the animal holding capacity and to create a welcoming, safe, open and stress-free environment. It also includes the infrastructure necessary for all future buildings including access roads, geothermal wells and constructed wetlands as the wastewater system which allows black and grey water discharges to be fully filtered and decontaminated by microorganisms and plants.
2013 DESIGN AWARDS
Honor Award: CHRIST CHURCH BRONXVILLE
HISTORIC RESTORATION
Bronxville, NY
Architect: WALTER SEDOVIC ARCHITECTS Walter Sedovic FAIA LEED, Principal & CEO, Jill H Gotthelf AIA FAPT, Principal
Design Team: Altieri Sebor Wieber, Edward Stanley Engineers, Chandler LLC Contractors: Herbert Rose Inc, Landmark Slate & Cooper, Brenner Builders, Robert M Spano Plumbing, Guy’s Electric, McDevitt Metal, Rohlf’s Stained & Leaded Glass, Ellen Miret Glass Photography: Walter Sedovic Architects
Revealing beauty that’s beyond skin deep: Rediscovering and re-engaging the architectonic features of infrastructure and form embedded in this 1925 Bertram Goodhue masterwork, making it a model of sustainability and energy efficiency. Its complex program involved innovations in data collection, material science and preservation, environmental compliance, codes, spatial modifications and operations. Noteworthy is its restored original passive and active mechanical systems.
Citation Award: EAST END RESTORATION, LARCHMONT YACHT CLUB Larchmont, NY
Architect: JAMES FLEMING, ARCHITECT Drafting coordination: Matthew Arnold, RA. AIA Structural Engineer: Thomas Renzo, P.E. Kitchen design/Exhaust design: Hafsco, Inc, /Interstate Fire and Safety, Inc. Contractor: Murphy Brothers Contracting, Inc Photograpghy by: Deraso Portfolios,
The Larchmont Yacht Club, established in 1888, expanded to both the East and West sides when the Benjamin Carver Mansion became the Yacht Club. Kitchens, pantries, and back house services were all located in the basement, and after 100 years of accommodation and development, directed improvements were needed. The East End project was initiated in order to make the internal service operations, specifically day to day food service and event operations, work more efficiently. The historic sensitivity and aesthetic improvements work hand-in-hand. Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 41
2013 DESIGN AWARDS INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE
Citation Award: SKYSCAPE37 New York, NY
Architect: CAROL KURTH ARCHITECTURE, PC + CAROL KURTH INTERIORS, LTD
Located steps away from Lincoln Center, the modern Skyscape37 apartment offers panoramic views of Central Park and Midtown. Begun as an assemblage of three apartment units, the project’s design by architect Carol Kurth, FAIA, cleverly integrates puzzle-like spaces into a gracious, flowing backdrop for a family of four. The clients desired an open, visual canvas for their collection of vintage movie art, while maintaing privacy and comfort for the family.
Design Team: Carol J.W. Kurth, FAIA, LEED AP John E. Rapetti, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP Tina Schwab, Sr. Interior Designer Samantha Marino, Design Liaison Contractor: Legacy Development Northeast, LLC Photography: Peter Krupenye
LIGHTING
Citation Award: THE PIN CLOUD AT SPINS BOWL Mt. Kisco, NY
Architect: GALLIN BEELER DESIGN STUDIO PLLC
Design Team: Michael L. Gallin, Frank Spataro Script Writer: Joshua Emig Photographer: Greg Molesworth
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Grand Prix New York hired Gallin Beeler Design Studio to create a low cost signature architectural element for their new bowling facility. The Pin Cloud was created by hanging 657 bowling pins and 64 lights from the ceiling to form a complex wave illuminated by a dynamic lighting scheme. To assure precision of the complex form, computer models were utilized to aid construction.
2013 DESIGN AWARDS CORPORATE/COMMERCIAL
Citation Award: MEDIACOM HEADQUARTERS Mediacom Park, NY
ARCHITECT: POSKANZER SKOTT ARCHITECTS Civil Engineer: Lanc and Tully Structure: Structure Studio MEP:nOmdex, Inc. Interiors: Diane Picyk at Poskanzer Skott Architects Landscape:Greenland Landscape Co. Greenland Associates – Landscape Architects, LLC Audio Visual – Acoustics: K2 Audio, LLC Kitchen: Raymond and Raymond Lighting: Clinard Design Studio LLC Roofing: Watsky Associates, Inc.
The site strategy for this new corporate headquarters on 200 acres of existing farmland was the result of balancing disparate factors including analysis of existing topography, buildable area, site access, prominent views, site orientation, as well as building massing, program and budget. Located at the crest of the farmland, the building features to extended “fin” walls (West and South) which tether the structure to the land. These walls also act as gateways separating the natural meadow foreground from the more manicured buildings, parking and landscape features. The project enhances the contrast between the man-made esthetic and natural farmland. URBAN RENEWAL
Citation Award: MAIN STREET FAMILY AND SENIOR HOUSING Village of Spring Valley, NY
ARCHITECT: MAGNUSSON ARCHITECTURE AND PLANNING, PC
MEP Engineer: Johnson & Urban, LLC Laszlo Bodak Engineer PC Structural Engineer: Wexler & Associates Civil Engineer: TRC Engineers, Inc. Geotechnical Engineer: Pillori Associates, PA Surveyor: AR Celentano Environmental Consultant: CA Rich Consultants, Inc. Urban Renewal Master Planners: Saccardi & Schiff General Contractor: Sisca Northeast, Inc. Photography: Ari Burling Photography
The Main Street Family and Senior Housing projects are comprised of two mixed-use buildings facing one another across the commercial artery of the Village of Spring Valley’s historic downtown. Completed in 2010 and 2012, the four-story buildings include affordable senior and family apartments as well as ground floor retail space, and were developed by CPC Resources working with the Rockland Housing Action Coalition, with financing from NY State HCR. The projects were designed by Magnusson Architecture and Planning, with structural engineering by Wexler Associates, MEP engineering by Laszlo Bodak Engineers and Johnson & Urban, and civil engineering by TRC Engineers Inc. Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 43
Join your Westchester + Hudson Valley AIA Board members at the convention
44 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
Now accepting registrations for the Spring ’14 Sessions
There’s a lot more to motorized window shades than up and down. This is what counts: Quiet, powerful operation, precise shade alignment, smooth integration. And convenient, even automated, control options resulting in energy savings and occupant comfort. mechosystems.com/WhisperShade
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 45
Event Highlights
EXPO: Progressions
Held at the Marriot Grand Ballroom, Tarrytown, NY October 21, 2013 125 attendees, 31 Vendor Booths, 26 CES classes Photography by Peter Krupenye
Attendees had time to review many products in between CES classes. Vendors offered services, products, systems, information and energy efficient design. In addition to the vendors, twenty six Continuing Education Classes were presented. CES presentations were made by EXPO vendors along with organization such as the Westchester Municipal Planning Federation, Westchester Health Department, Webster Bank, Westchester County Human Rights Commission, Westchester Disable on the Move and a Code Talk with our favorite Code Official Erika Krieger. A total of 32 credits were offered throughout the day. Participants also visited vendor booths to gather stamps in their passport program in order to qualify for drawings for numerous prizes including tablets, TV and other giveaways. The Chapter is already planning for this year’s Expo to be held on October 27, 2014. Save and date and hope to see everyone there...
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Chapter members and future members enjoyed themselves and learned a lot from a variety of vendors. The days events also included networking, food, raffle and a full day of CES programs.
Vendors from all aspects of architectural design presented their latest products and services in the design and technology world. Attendees of the Expo visited the 31 vendor booths gathering product information while vendors had the opportunity to inform architects and engineers of the details of their new product, designs and energy saving technologies.
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 47
Interview
Kim Miller, AIA: Architect of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund by peter gaito jr, aia
I sat down with Kim Miller, AIA LEED AP, Staff Architect and Director of Operations, Pocantico Center. We spoke in the original Coach Barn building, which now serves as venue for conferences and meetings on critical issues related to the (RBF) Rockefeller Brothers Fund’s mission. Kim and staff also manages Kykuit, the Teahouse, Orangerie and a 1949 Marcel Breuer House. Kim has worked there for 20 years, shed some insight on managing the architectural aspects of the estate. For more info. see www.rbf.org.
PG: You graduated from Columbia School of Architecture in 1990. How did you end up at RBF?
KM: I was working for a firm in Manhattan that was downsizing and a friend said that the Rockefeller Brothers Fund was looking for an architect to oversee a single project’s renovation which was to be then open to the public. I interviewed and was hired in 1992 for a job that was supposed to last 18 months. Which project was that?
That was helping the Executive Director oversee the renovation of the Coach Barn, originally designed by York & Sawyer. The project also included renovating Kykuit.
Originally the three floor Coach Barn was used for what purpose?
Downstairs were the mechanical spaces, the main floor was the barn and the top floor were staff apartments. Now the downstairs is the conference center, main floor museum, and the apartments have been turned into lodging accommodations for guests at the conference center.
Were you involved in the architect selection process for the renovation?
No, I came on board after Herbert S. Newman Architects was selected and construction was set to begin. My role for RBF involved owner’s rep style management that included all design updates, changes and construction administration.
What was your involvement in the Kykuit Renovation and what was the RBF plan for that building?
I was in charge of managing the renovation the top two floors of the mansion to create bedrooms for conference guests and improving the fire safety and ADA accessibility of
48 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
the main floor. We needed to do this to get Kykuit ready for public access. It opened to the public in 1994.
Was it open to the public prior to 1994?
No, it was a private residence until Nelson Rockefeller’s death in 1979, who left it to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. In 1991, an agreement was made with RBF to administer the property for a long term lease. The renovation started in 1991 and was completed in 1994.
Anything odd or interesting discovered during the Kykuit renovation?
Not particularly, but one thing I do recall when looking for a sprinkler pipe route, we found a plywood wall behind a sculpture, and behind this plywood wall was an ornamental wood door. We found out that this door was added by the original architect to keep the symmetry of the real door across the room. Did you decide to keep the door or the plywood wall? We took a lot of photographs, but decided to restore the plywood wall and sculpture, which was from Nelson Rockefeller’s period.
What other buildings fall under the RBF umbrella?
There are a number of buildings on the grounds and most of them are still private, but in addition to the Coach Barn and Kykuit, we also maintain the 1908 Orangerie Building, designed by William Wells Bosworth, to house 100 imported orange trees during the winter, a Greenhouse, a Marcel Breuer House relocated from MoMA in 1950, a Japanese Tea House and Japanese Shrine.
Was the Japanese Tea house built on site or moved here from somewhere else like the Breuer house?
It was designed for the grounds here in Tarrytown, but built in Japan and then transferred to here in the early 1960s.
How did RBF acquire a Marcel Breuer house?
It was on exhibit at MoMA in 1949 for 6 months, and then the museum didn’t know what to do with it. We are not sure who called who, but the Rockefeller family house made arrangements to have the house cut into 4 pieces and delivered to the grounds here and reassembled in 1950.
I know over the years Philip Johnson and recently Kiernan Timberlake had houses on display at the MoMA modern home exhibits. It would be great if those houses were saved as well. You have a true treasure here with the Breuer House. Is RBF on the lookout for other such houses? No, that was a one time deal done by the family, we are not actively seeking out houses. We have the Breuer house open for special tours and as residency for recipients of various RDF cultural programs for writers, poets, musicians and dancers, who stay for a week or two, who then give performances there at the end of their stay.
How large is the Park?
About 250 acres, but we maintain 140 acres and the rest is still private/family owned. The golf course is half private, half maintained by RBF.
What about the Tudor Mansion on the Golf Course?
That is privately owned. It was originally designed in the 1920s as a playhouse for the children of John D. Rockefeller Jr. JDR Jr. lived in Kykuit after his father passed away in the 1937.
Are there interesting other properties that we should know?
My assistant and I are putting together a history of the site, beginning with the original purchases by John D. Rockefeller in 1893 from different landowners. We are trying to recreate the map of all the large and small homes he purchased. Over the years, several houses were moved, some demolished, and a number of houses in the Village of Pocantico Hills used to be on the grounds, but later moved.
Are there any constraints for current or upcoming projects due to National Trust for Historical Preservation Status?
We would need their approval for any material changes, since they are the owners of the property.
What else is on the boards for you and RBF?
Nothing planned right now, we just removed a 1939 10,000 gallon oil tank. Maintaining the buildings, keeping everything dry and all systems running, is challenging enough.
What is to become of the Orangerie?
Nothing planned now, we are just maintaining it. There are no funds and no official plans, but there are lots of different ideas of what to do with it, but nothing coming down the road just yet.
Are the Rockefeller family members still involved?
Several family members are part of the RBF Board and sit on the Pocantico committee, but are not involved in day to day operations.
What about the RBF grants and application process? I know there was a recent greenhouse gas emission grant research awarded. Are any awards architecture based?
There are so many grants given out in different programs. It was founded in 1940 as a vehicle to advance social change and contribute to a just, sustainable and peaceful world. Not specific to architecture.
When you get out of your office and are able to sneak out for a minute and enjoy the grounds, where do you go? The Gardens of Kykuit, I like to walk thru them, hear the fountains, and experience the different beautiful gardens as designed by WW Bosworth.
The 2nd ArchPLUS issue will arrive in April: Contributors welcome Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 49
2014 Golf Outing
Scholarship and Education Fundraiser
:HVWFKHVWHU +XGVRQ 9DOOH\ “I’ll shoot my age if I have to live to be 105.â€? - Bob Hope The Westchester Hudson Valley chapter of The American Institute of Architects invites you to their annual golf outing and Scholarship Education Fundraiser. This years’ venue is The Hollow Brook Golf Club. The tranquil 250-acre site offers dramatic elevation changes, gently undulating meadows, rolling hills and WKH PDJQLÂżFHQW +ROORZ %URRN ZKLFK SULVWLQHO\ WUDYHUVHV this beautiful Westchester County, New York property. Together, the many breathtaking features and incredible scenery make the property one of nature’s most perfect golf course settings. The 6,900-yard layout, set in a valley and bordered on one side by a mountain ridge, offers one striking view after another. The course’s design incorporates dramatic elevation changes, gently undulating fairways, mature native trees, lakes and a crystal clear trout stream that runs through the property.
Location:
Sponsorship Opportunities: Consider partnering with us as we fund our annual scholarships, awarded each year to tomorrow’s architects. There are numerous opportunities. With your help the future of the architectural profession can get off to a great start.
Program Costs:
Hollow Brook Golf Club
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If you can not join us for the golf, please join us for the dinner and reception!
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Registration:
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For questions,contact Valerie Brown, Executive Director at aiawhv@gmail.com
30 Dinner
P.O. Box 611 Katonah, NY 10536 914.232.7240 aiawhv@gmail.com
50 ArchPLUS Winter 2014
“Architecture can’t force people to connect, it can only plan the crossing points, remove barriers, and make the meeting places useful and attractive” -Denise Scott Brown
“My architecture is easy to understand and enjoy. I hope it is also hard to forget” -Oscar Niemeyer
“Specialists are people who always repeat the same mistakes” -Walter Gropius
“Architecture is really about well-being. I think that people want to feel good in a space...On the one hand, its about shelter; but its also about pleasure” -Zaha Hadid
“One of the great beauties of architecture, is that each time, it is like life starting all over again” -Renzo Piano
“If architecture is frozen music, then music must be liquid architecture” -Quincy Jones
“What you newspaper and magazine writers, who work in rabbit time, don’t understand is that the practice of architecture has to be measured in elephant time.” -Eero Saarinen
Save the Date: April 29, 2014, and join us for
Winter 2014 ArchPLUS 51
ArchPLUS
AIA WHV