Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Service
New York City
Peter L. Gluck and Partners, Architects
Facade doors are both formal and functional
The Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Service provides a variety of public services to the East Harlem community. Peter L. Gluck and Partners designed a new building that consolidates functions and offices that had previously occupied five separate locations. The organization had very limited funds but nevertheless wanted to create a visible and welcoming refuge for the low-income families that depend on its services including family advocacy, home nursing care, a food pantry, classrooms, and daycare.
The building’s signature element is a facade system comprised of ordinary exterior doors, large pieces of fixed glass, and insulated panels. Rather than using conventional fenestration, the architects designed this system of fixed and movable pieces that allow building occupants to control the amount of light and air entering their offices. A low-cost and practical solution, it also creates instant symbolism: the opened doors convey a welcoming atmosphere to the public.
Inside, a steel structural frame allows for clear, column-free floor plates with unobstructed views and flexibility for the client to reconfigure the space to suit any change in its program. Additionally, the structural frame and foundations are designed to accommodate two additional floors should the owner want to expand the building at a later date.
Formal name of project:
Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Service
Location:
New York City
Gross square footage:
21,500 sq. ft.
Total Construction Cost:
$4.4 million
Owner:
Little Sisters of the Assumption Family Health Service
Architect:
Peter L. Gluck and Partners, Architects
646 W. 131st St., 2nd Fl.
New York, NY 10027
212-690-4950 tel.
www.gluckpartners.com
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