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03.18.24

Chestnut Commons featured in Metropolis Magazine

In March 2024 project features, Metropolis Magazine highlighted Chestnut Commons as a case study in successful passive house design for an affordable, mixed-use development. Chestnut Commons is one of Dattner Architects’ recently completed projects that not only follows passive house principles but also provides housing to the formerly homeless and low-income individuals. In addition to the housing, the project integrates a Community Center in the base of the building, which includes a satellite campus for CUNY Kingsborough Community College, a food manufacturing incubator that provides job training, a social services center run by the Cypress Hills Local Development Corp, and a Brooklyn Federal Credit Union branch. Sustainability and affordability are issues often dealt with separately—while  in case of Chestnut Commons, the intent was to build a project that not only houses people in need but also works toward creating true affordability for the residents. Viewed through a broadened lens of environmental equity and recognizing that utility bills are one of the largest burdens on a household’s income, the Passive House design strategy significantly lowers the cooling and heating loads on the building – providing a direct synthesis of affordability and sustainability. To read the full article: https://metropolismag.com/projects/this-brooklyn-multifamily-community-is-sustainable-and-affordable/
In March 2024 project features, Metropolis Magazine highlighted Chestnut Commons as a case study in successful passive house design for an affordable, mixed-use development. Chestnut Commons is one of Dattner Architects’ recently completed projects that not only follows passive house principles but also provides housing to the formerly homeless and low-income individuals. In addition to the housing, the project integrates a Community Center in the base of the building, which includes a satellite campus for CUNY Kingsborough Community College, a food manufacturing incubator that provides job training, a social services center run by the Cypress Hills Local Development Corp, and a Brooklyn Federal Credit Union branch. Sustainability and affordability are issues often dealt with separately—while  in case of Chestnut Commons, the intent was to build a project that not only houses people in need but also works toward creating true affordability for the residents. Viewed through a broadened lens of environmental equity and recognizing that utility bills are one of the largest burdens on a household’s income, the Passive House design strategy significantly lowers the cooling and heating loads on the building – providing a direct synthesis of affordability and sustainability. To read the full article: https://metropolismag.com/projects/this-brooklyn-multifamily-community-is-sustainable-and-affordable/
24 0313 Principals Group H For News
03.11.24

Dattner Architects is a Women-Owned Firm

Dattner Architects is a women-owned design firm. This is a milestone for our practice, which was founded 60 years ago. Our long-standing commitment to equity and inclusion has organically fostered women to thrive and achieve at the highest level of leadership. Today the firm is led by 10 partners, half of whom are women; and the women are the majority owners. We are a firm that continues to evolve and advance. Our core mission is unwavering, and it unites our work and our practice. We proudly take on the planning and design of the region’s most essential projects, creating architecture that enriches the urban experience, transforms environments, and strengthens communities. Today Dattner Architects is over 100 people, 59% of whom are women, 41% BIPOC, and 17% LGBTQ+ all working together from one office in New York City. A steadfast dedication to our mission, a strong and varied portfolio of that spans sectors, and a thoughtful leadership transition plan allows our 60-year-old practice to continue to remain vital and vibrant—reflecting the diversity and relevancy of our practice. "Driven to work at the urban scale, I initially sought out Dattner Architects because the firm had designed many of the civic spaces that were formative in my life," notes Gia Maneiro, Principal and Corporate President.  "This passion fueled my career here—from junior designer to Principal—supported by the confidence, camaraderie and mentorship that defines the culture of the office.  Raising my daughter solidified my commitment to leadership in the future of sustainable public architecture, and I could not be more proud to share in a majority women owned partnership that embodies these values." Dattner Architects is certified as a WBE with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
Dattner Architects is a women-owned design firm. This is a milestone for our practice, which was founded 60 years ago. Our long-standing commitment to equity and inclusion has organically fostered women to thrive and achieve at the highest level of leadership. Today the firm is led by 10 partners, half of whom are women; and the women are the majority owners. We are a firm that continues to evolve and advance. Our core mission is unwavering, and it unites our work and our practice. We proudly take on the planning and design of the region’s most essential projects, creating architecture that enriches the urban experience, transforms environments, and strengthens communities. Today Dattner Architects is over 100 people, 59% of whom are women, 41% BIPOC, and 17% LGBTQ+ all working together from one office in New York City. A steadfast dedication to our mission, a strong and varied portfolio of that spans sectors, and a thoughtful leadership transition plan allows our 60-year-old practice to continue to remain vital and vibrant—reflecting the diversity and relevancy of our practice. "Driven to work at the urban scale, I initially sought out Dattner Architects because the firm had designed many of the civic spaces that were formative in my life," notes Gia Maneiro, Principal and Corporate President.  "This passion fueled my career here—from junior designer to Principal—supported by the confidence, camaraderie and mentorship that defines the culture of the office.  Raising my daughter solidified my commitment to leadership in the future of sustainable public architecture, and I could not be more proud to share in a majority women owned partnership that embodies these values." Dattner Architects is certified as a WBE with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
PHA Reimagine Buildings News
03.06.24

Shefali Sanghvi and Heather McKinstry join Passive House Accelerator’s Inaugural Reimagine Buildings ’24 Event

Dattner Architects’ Director of Sustainability, Shefali Sanghvi and Associate, Heather McKinstry will be speaking at the Passive House Accelerator’s Reimagine Buildings’ 24 (RB’24) held on March 7 and March 8. A new vision for what a global conference can be, PHA’s, RB’24 is a virtual experience tailored to provide essential knowledge, connections, and inspiration to create impactful buildings that are resilient and equitable. For 24 hours speakers and audience members will discuss new, innovative buildings, exploring topics like deep energy efficiency, low-embodied carbon and more. Heather will join a panel of experts on the main stage to discuss the climate crisis and the affordability crisis. She will highlight Dattner Architects’ 425 Grand Concourse project as an example of how affordable housing projects benefit from Passive House solutions. Friday March 8th, 2024: 8am – 8:50am Hour 21: Haven For All: Climate Resilient Affordable Housing Shefali will be speaking at the closing panel during the conclusion of the event, presenting a global view on resiliency of buildings, sites, and the future of sustainable, equitable development. Friday March 8th, 2024: 11am – 12pm Hour 24: Closing the Circle: Equity, Resiliency, and Future Horizons Learn from people from around the world are adopting better building techniques that not only embrace Passive House standards but also plant-based materials, and localized approaches to decarbonization and resiliency. More and register here: https://www.accelevents.com/e/passive-house-accelerator?aff=AIANYS
Dattner Architects’ Director of Sustainability, Shefali Sanghvi and Associate, Heather McKinstry will be speaking at the Passive House Accelerator’s Reimagine Buildings’ 24 (RB’24) held on March 7 and March 8. A new vision for what a global conference can be, PHA’s, RB’24 is a virtual experience tailored to provide essential knowledge, connections, and inspiration to create impactful buildings that are resilient and equitable. For 24 hours speakers and audience members will discuss new, innovative buildings, exploring topics like deep energy efficiency, low-embodied carbon and more. Heather will join a panel of experts on the main stage to discuss the climate crisis and the affordability crisis. She will highlight Dattner Architects’ 425 Grand Concourse project as an example of how affordable housing projects benefit from Passive House solutions. Friday March 8th, 2024: 8am – 8:50am Hour 21: Haven For All: Climate Resilient Affordable Housing Shefali will be speaking at the closing panel during the conclusion of the event, presenting a global view on resiliency of buildings, sites, and the future of sustainable, equitable development. Friday March 8th, 2024: 11am – 12pm Hour 24: Closing the Circle: Equity, Resiliency, and Future Horizons Learn from people from around the world are adopting better building techniques that not only embrace Passive House standards but also plant-based materials, and localized approaches to decarbonization and resiliency. More and register here: https://www.accelevents.com/e/passive-house-accelerator?aff=AIANYS
21 1217 Aerial Residential No School
02.27.24

ALAFIA featured in The Architect’s Newspaper

Featured in the January/February 2024 issue, The Architect’s Newspaper included the latest updates on Dattner Architects’ Alafia Master Plan and highlights from a discussion with Daniel Heuberger, the Principal in Charge of the plan, and subsequent phase 1 design...Situated on a 27-acre site at the northern edge of Jamaica Bay in Brooklyn, Alafia is an ambitious master plan that will transform a decommissioned state psychiatric hospital into a wellness-oriented resilient community designed to address the chronic social, economic, and health disparities in a historically underserved area. The project is based on notable planning principles. Integrating a mix of scales to foster a sense of place, identification, and belonging. The personal scale includes small scale spaces, individualized buildings, lobbies, and finishes. The communal scale includes buildings centered around shared amenities and garden spaces. The neighborhood scale creates a publicly accessible interior campus, crossed by city streets, welcoming pedestrians and vehicles. Currently in the first phase of construction, the mixed-use, mid-rise Building C1/C2 will provide 452 units of affordable housing including units for the formerly homeless and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it will include exterior and interior amenity spaces, a social services suite, a health clinic, and retail spaces. Building C3 will provide 124 units and will include exterior and interior amenity spaces. The buildings are designed to be Passive House certified. We have started construction of the Maintenance Hub, which will serve as a flexible operational facility, ensuring compliance with both current and future waste regulations. The centralized trash and recycling collection facility will allow waste, biowaste, and recyclable waste streams from throughout the development to be centralized.   As one of the largest projects to result from the New York State Vital Brooklyn Initiative, Dattner Architects designed the master plan in collaboration with landscape architect SCAPE. “The buildings share a number of common characteristics: a communal identity built around a shared, defensible, and safe outdoor space; a lively, activated ground plane with residential, commercial, and community facility activities on all sides of the structure; a sense of place created by a mix of scales and unique massing to each building; and a healthy, comfortable environment based on sustainable, Passive House principles.”- Daniel Heuberger, Principal at Dattner Articles. Read full article here: Alafia by Dattner and SCAPE is underway in East New York (archpaper.com)
Featured in the January/February 2024 issue, The Architect’s Newspaper included the latest updates on Dattner Architects’ Alafia Master Plan and highlights from a discussion with Daniel Heuberger, the Principal in Charge of the plan, and subsequent phase 1 design...Situated on a 27-acre site at the northern edge of Jamaica Bay in Brooklyn, Alafia is an ambitious master plan that will transform a decommissioned state psychiatric hospital into a wellness-oriented resilient community designed to address the chronic social, economic, and health disparities in a historically underserved area. The project is based on notable planning principles. Integrating a mix of scales to foster a sense of place, identification, and belonging. The personal scale includes small scale spaces, individualized buildings, lobbies, and finishes. The communal scale includes buildings centered around shared amenities and garden spaces. The neighborhood scale creates a publicly accessible interior campus, crossed by city streets, welcoming pedestrians and vehicles. Currently in the first phase of construction, the mixed-use, mid-rise Building C1/C2 will provide 452 units of affordable housing including units for the formerly homeless and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it will include exterior and interior amenity spaces, a social services suite, a health clinic, and retail spaces. Building C3 will provide 124 units and will include exterior and interior amenity spaces. The buildings are designed to be Passive House certified. We have started construction of the Maintenance Hub, which will serve as a flexible operational facility, ensuring compliance with both current and future waste regulations. The centralized trash and recycling collection facility will allow waste, biowaste, and recyclable waste streams from throughout the development to be centralized.   As one of the largest projects to result from the New York State Vital Brooklyn Initiative, Dattner Architects designed the master plan in collaboration with landscape architect SCAPE. “The buildings share a number of common characteristics: a communal identity built around a shared, defensible, and safe outdoor space; a lively, activated ground plane with residential, commercial, and community facility activities on all sides of the structure; a sense of place created by a mix of scales and unique massing to each building; and a healthy, comfortable environment based on sustainable, Passive House principles.”- Daniel Heuberger, Principal at Dattner Articles. Read full article here: Alafia by Dattner and SCAPE is underway in East New York (archpaper.com)
Hero
02.20.24

Shelter Housing designed to foster community and dignity

With a diverse portfolio spanning six decades, Dattner Architects has played a pivotal role in reshaping urban landscapes, creating spaces that not only provide shelter but also foster a sense of community and dignity for those in need. Grounded in principles of inclusivity and sustainability, our work reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of homelessness and the importance of providing holistic support systems. We are designing two shelter and supportive housing projects that will not only provide for those in need for housing but also clinic services for the community at large. 59th Street Shelter 59th Street Shelter is a new 200-bed women's shelter on West 59th Street in Manhattan under construction that, in addition to providing much needed emergency housing for the unhoused, will also include a public-facing Article 28 outpatient medical clinic. This project will be operated by Project Renewal and as a joint development venture with the Hudson Companies, two NYC based organizations with a long history of providing local affordable and supportive housing. The new building unlocks the available floor area on the site to provide a 51,000 square foot, 9-story building designed to achieve LEED Gold. The building features green roofs and a street-facing landscaped terrace for residents to engage in gardening and passive recreation. This terrace was born from the project's unique site context which informed the building massing, diagrammatically allowing the adjacent public park to fold over and onto the setback roof. Understanding the importance of the first impressions of a building by an arriving shelter resident, the façades were composed with a multi-family residential association in their materiality, scale, and detailing. The building’s superstructure was leveraged to create large windows in the primary façade that provide an abundance of natural daylight into the shelter dormitories. New Providence Redevelopment New Providence is the redevelopment of a 6-story women’s shelter on East 45th Steet in Manhattan that Project Renewal operated for several decades. The building did not meet the programmatic needs and the site was significantly under-built. In a joint venture between Project Renewal and Monadnock Development, Dattner Architects was retained to design a new building to redevelop the site with a purpose-built women’s shelter and supportive housing. The new 130,000 square foot, 21-story building will include a 171-bed women's shelter and will provide 130 supportive and affordable housing units. The shelter will function as transitional housing for shelter clients and the supportive and affordable units will be permanent housing for residents. The shelter is located at the base of the building and includes exterior amenity space, recreation areas, a full kitchen for food service and cooking/hospitality training, and extensive therapeutic and social service support facilities. The supportive housing component includes its own exterior amenity space and a large social services suite. A public-facing Article 28 health clinic operated by Project Renewal on the ground floor will serve both the residents of the building and the surrounding neighborhood.
With a diverse portfolio spanning six decades, Dattner Architects has played a pivotal role in reshaping urban landscapes, creating spaces that not only provide shelter but also foster a sense of community and dignity for those in need. Grounded in principles of inclusivity and sustainability, our work reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of homelessness and the importance of providing holistic support systems. We are designing two shelter and supportive housing projects that will not only provide for those in need for housing but also clinic services for the community at large. 59th Street Shelter 59th Street Shelter is a new 200-bed women's shelter on West 59th Street in Manhattan under construction that, in addition to providing much needed emergency housing for the unhoused, will also include a public-facing Article 28 outpatient medical clinic. This project will be operated by Project Renewal and as a joint development venture with the Hudson Companies, two NYC based organizations with a long history of providing local affordable and supportive housing. The new building unlocks the available floor area on the site to provide a 51,000 square foot, 9-story building designed to achieve LEED Gold. The building features green roofs and a street-facing landscaped terrace for residents to engage in gardening and passive recreation. This terrace was born from the project's unique site context which informed the building massing, diagrammatically allowing the adjacent public park to fold over and onto the setback roof. Understanding the importance of the first impressions of a building by an arriving shelter resident, the façades were composed with a multi-family residential association in their materiality, scale, and detailing. The building’s superstructure was leveraged to create large windows in the primary façade that provide an abundance of natural daylight into the shelter dormitories. New Providence Redevelopment New Providence is the redevelopment of a 6-story women’s shelter on East 45th Steet in Manhattan that Project Renewal operated for several decades. The building did not meet the programmatic needs and the site was significantly under-built. In a joint venture between Project Renewal and Monadnock Development, Dattner Architects was retained to design a new building to redevelop the site with a purpose-built women’s shelter and supportive housing. The new 130,000 square foot, 21-story building will include a 171-bed women's shelter and will provide 130 supportive and affordable housing units. The shelter will function as transitional housing for shelter clients and the supportive and affordable units will be permanent housing for residents. The shelter is located at the base of the building and includes exterior amenity space, recreation areas, a full kitchen for food service and cooking/hospitality training, and extensive therapeutic and social service support facilities. The supportive housing component includes its own exterior amenity space and a large social services suite. A public-facing Article 28 health clinic operated by Project Renewal on the ground floor will serve both the residents of the building and the surrounding neighborhood.
NY Build Expo VBD
02.09.24

Dattner Architects at New York Build Expo

Principal Paul Bauer and Director of Sustainability, Senior Associate, Shefali Sanghvi joined industry leaders and peers at this year’s New York Build Expo on February 14th at the Javits Center. Panel: From Waste to Wealth: Circular Construction for a Sustainable Future Date & Time: February 14, 2024, at 12:00pm Speakers: Shefali Sanghvi (Dattner Architects); Nicole Spina (NYCEDC); Amanda Kaminsky (Americas - Lendlease); Kritika Kharbanda (Henning Larsen); Kat West (Turner & Townsend); Sheida Shahi (Adaptis); Jonathan Munkley (WSP, Zero Construct) Panel: Designing a Safer City for All Date & Time: February 14, 2024, at 11:00pm Speakers: Paul Bauer (Dattner Architects); Adam Paul Susaneck (AECOM Metro New York); Roberto Vila (Stantec); Sofia Berger (WSP); Aaron Mendelsohn (New York City Council)   The New York Build Expo is the largest construction and design show for New York and the Tri-State area. The show features 500+ top industry speakers across 15 different tracks and AIA CES approved workshops, 400+ exhibitors, exclusive free-to-attend networking events including the Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction, an Architect’s Hub, and much more.  
Principal Paul Bauer and Director of Sustainability, Senior Associate, Shefali Sanghvi joined industry leaders and peers at this year’s New York Build Expo on February 14th at the Javits Center. Panel: From Waste to Wealth: Circular Construction for a Sustainable Future Date & Time: February 14, 2024, at 12:00pm Speakers: Shefali Sanghvi (Dattner Architects); Nicole Spina (NYCEDC); Amanda Kaminsky (Americas - Lendlease); Kritika Kharbanda (Henning Larsen); Kat West (Turner & Townsend); Sheida Shahi (Adaptis); Jonathan Munkley (WSP, Zero Construct) Panel: Designing a Safer City for All Date & Time: February 14, 2024, at 11:00pm Speakers: Paul Bauer (Dattner Architects); Adam Paul Susaneck (AECOM Metro New York); Roberto Vila (Stantec); Sofia Berger (WSP); Aaron Mendelsohn (New York City Council)   The New York Build Expo is the largest construction and design show for New York and the Tri-State area. The show features 500+ top industry speakers across 15 different tracks and AIA CES approved workshops, 400+ exhibitors, exclusive free-to-attend networking events including the Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction, an Architect’s Hub, and much more.  
Rachel Urban Omnibus
02.02.24

Rachel Ehrlich featured in Architectural League of New York’s Urban Omnibus

Dattner Architects’ Associate Principal Rachel Ehrlich AIA, LEED AP BD+C talks with Urban Omnibus (The Architectural League of New York) about designing projects that address the intersectional crises of affordable housing and climate change, the role of architects when creating housing within tight sites and underserved communities, and the value of collaboration. In the interview with Mariana Mogilevich, editor-in-chief of Urban Omnibus, Rachel highlights design solutions and challenges faced during design and construction of the recently completed affordable housing project Santaella Gardens, and supporting housing project St. James Terrace. The way that we create housing in New York City is its own ecosystem and industry. The architecture is a tiny piece of it. We think of the building as being the most important part, but the people that put together the financing think of money as the most important part. And then the people who are providing social services to the people in these homes are like: “Obviously, caring for these people is the most important part. If we don’t figure that out, what are we doing here?” Rachel is a leader in the design of affordable housing, and she has a distinct focus on supportive and senior living spaces. A climate activist, her dedication centers around enriching communities, creating vibrant, livable neighborhoods that serve as the foundation for social equity. Through her expertise, she strives to provide well-designed, sustainable homes for individuals across all income levels. For the last four years, Rachel has represented Madison, New Jersey as a council member where she supports the town’s concerns regarding infrastructure, capital projects, and climate action. “We recently adopted climate goals in our town of 17,000 people and are working towards cutting carbon pollution and increasing resiliency to mitigate the effects of climate change that are already here.” Read more: https://urbanomnibus.net/2024/01/building-out-of-a-tight-spot/  
Dattner Architects’ Associate Principal Rachel Ehrlich AIA, LEED AP BD+C talks with Urban Omnibus (The Architectural League of New York) about designing projects that address the intersectional crises of affordable housing and climate change, the role of architects when creating housing within tight sites and underserved communities, and the value of collaboration. In the interview with Mariana Mogilevich, editor-in-chief of Urban Omnibus, Rachel highlights design solutions and challenges faced during design and construction of the recently completed affordable housing project Santaella Gardens, and supporting housing project St. James Terrace. The way that we create housing in New York City is its own ecosystem and industry. The architecture is a tiny piece of it. We think of the building as being the most important part, but the people that put together the financing think of money as the most important part. And then the people who are providing social services to the people in these homes are like: “Obviously, caring for these people is the most important part. If we don’t figure that out, what are we doing here?” Rachel is a leader in the design of affordable housing, and she has a distinct focus on supportive and senior living spaces. A climate activist, her dedication centers around enriching communities, creating vibrant, livable neighborhoods that serve as the foundation for social equity. Through her expertise, she strives to provide well-designed, sustainable homes for individuals across all income levels. For the last four years, Rachel has represented Madison, New Jersey as a council member where she supports the town’s concerns regarding infrastructure, capital projects, and climate action. “We recently adopted climate goals in our town of 17,000 people and are working towards cutting carbon pollution and increasing resiliency to mitigate the effects of climate change that are already here.” Read more: https://urbanomnibus.net/2024/01/building-out-of-a-tight-spot/  
First Friday News
01.31.24

Architectural League First Friday at Dattner Architects

Dattner Architects will host The Architectural League's First Friday on March 1st, 2024. As part of The Architectural League’s well-regarded First Friday Series, we are opening up our office to members on March 1, 2024. Join us for an evening of drinks, conversation, and a look into our ongoing and award-winning projects, culture, and space. The League’s First Friday events are informal social gatherings that allow members to visit the offices of leading design practices and see work on the boards. We will be highlighting projects from our archives as well as exhibiting new projects, our Passive House affordable housing, and a group of adaptive re-use projects. We also hope to provide insight into our professional development programs and ERGs. Registration opens soon, directly through the Architectural League: First Friday: Dattner Architects - The Architectural League of New York (archleague.org)
Dattner Architects will host The Architectural League's First Friday on March 1st, 2024. As part of The Architectural League’s well-regarded First Friday Series, we are opening up our office to members on March 1, 2024. Join us for an evening of drinks, conversation, and a look into our ongoing and award-winning projects, culture, and space. The League’s First Friday events are informal social gatherings that allow members to visit the offices of leading design practices and see work on the boards. We will be highlighting projects from our archives as well as exhibiting new projects, our Passive House affordable housing, and a group of adaptive re-use projects. We also hope to provide insight into our professional development programs and ERGs. Registration opens soon, directly through the Architectural League: First Friday: Dattner Architects - The Architectural League of New York (archleague.org)
24 0118 Promotions Photos News
01.22.24

Dattner Architects 2024 Promotions: Senior Associates and Associates

Dattner Architects proudly announces the promotion of four new Senior Associates and three Associates. These promotions reflect these employees’ dedication to our firm, commitment to our civic architecture mission, and professional rigor. Aaron Campbell, Lola Rodriguez, Pascale Baladi have been elevated to Associate. Our new Senior Associates are Adam Siegel, Jon King, Patrick McAffrey, and Wei Wang. “The dedication and achievements of these seven professionals is celebrated through these promotions. They each bring a welcome and distinctive perspective to our practice, and we are excited about their continued impact on our firm and our projects.” - Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Aaron Campbell, RA, CPHC, Associate has worked in architecture, exhibitions, fabrication, real estate development, and general contracting. These experiences shaped his understanding of how architectural knowledge operates within a larger industry context. His focus is on the design of accessible public facilities, and he is currently a team member for the design of the Hoboken Maritime Park. Lola Rodriguez, RA, LEED AP, Associate has focused her career on projects that serve the public. She balances her broad international perspective from her training and practice as a licensed architect in Peru with her local work experience, to guide each project from conception to completion. Lola is an essential part of the team designing and building JFK’s Central Terminal Roadways and Ground Transportation Center Pascale Baladi, AIA, Associate is fascinated with the different ways in which cultures shape the inner workings of modern urban environments, and how they influence the way humans’ paths cross, intertwine, mingle, and engage with each other. This fascination has led her to pursue design of urban multi-family residential buildings, where she hopes to contribute to the provision of safe, equitable, and affordable homes for each diverse community. Pascale was nominated for 2023 METROPOLIS’ inaugural Arch30 Event which recognizes the next generation of leadership in architecture.  She is a member of the firm’s EDI Task Force. Inspired by the city of New York, Adam Siegel, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Assoc. DBIA, ENV SP, PMP, Senior Associate believes in architecture’s ability to create a sustainable future through design excellence. Concentrating on the design of urban transportation and infrastructure projects, he is committed to an engaged, collaborative process that fulfills the team’s design aspirations as well as meets the needs of stakeholders. Adam’s skill as a project manager carries through to the construction site. Jon King AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Associate has the ability to integrate and manage functionality and design goals results in built projects with enduring and sustainable value. He applies a deep understanding of high-performance building practices to his projects informed in part through continual research and collaboration with industry experts on subjects including thermal envelope assemblies and building systems. Formally trained in both architecture and product design, Patrick McAffrey AIA, Senior Associate ’s passion for intelligent urbanism has led him to focus his work on infrastructure and transportation projects, which he believes have profound impact on the building fabric and urban lifestyles they support. Patrick is the project manager for Department of Sanitation’s (DSNY) District 3 Garage under construction in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn and the Studio Director for our Transportation/Infrastructure Studio Wei Wang AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Associate believes the architect’s role goes beyond design and function; it also uplifts communities and fosters social equity. She has experience managing projects, from mixed-use high-rise residential developments to commercial buildings. Passionate about building materials and research, Wei co-chairs the firm’s Sustainable Practice Group and AIA Committee on the Environment.  She was called upon to represent the next generation of architects as the Young Architects Representative for AIA New York State.
Dattner Architects proudly announces the promotion of four new Senior Associates and three Associates. These promotions reflect these employees’ dedication to our firm, commitment to our civic architecture mission, and professional rigor. Aaron Campbell, Lola Rodriguez, Pascale Baladi have been elevated to Associate. Our new Senior Associates are Adam Siegel, Jon King, Patrick McAffrey, and Wei Wang. “The dedication and achievements of these seven professionals is celebrated through these promotions. They each bring a welcome and distinctive perspective to our practice, and we are excited about their continued impact on our firm and our projects.” - Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Aaron Campbell, RA, CPHC, Associate has worked in architecture, exhibitions, fabrication, real estate development, and general contracting. These experiences shaped his understanding of how architectural knowledge operates within a larger industry context. His focus is on the design of accessible public facilities, and he is currently a team member for the design of the Hoboken Maritime Park. Lola Rodriguez, RA, LEED AP, Associate has focused her career on projects that serve the public. She balances her broad international perspective from her training and practice as a licensed architect in Peru with her local work experience, to guide each project from conception to completion. Lola is an essential part of the team designing and building JFK’s Central Terminal Roadways and Ground Transportation Center Pascale Baladi, AIA, Associate is fascinated with the different ways in which cultures shape the inner workings of modern urban environments, and how they influence the way humans’ paths cross, intertwine, mingle, and engage with each other. This fascination has led her to pursue design of urban multi-family residential buildings, where she hopes to contribute to the provision of safe, equitable, and affordable homes for each diverse community. Pascale was nominated for 2023 METROPOLIS’ inaugural Arch30 Event which recognizes the next generation of leadership in architecture.  She is a member of the firm’s EDI Task Force. Inspired by the city of New York, Adam Siegel, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Assoc. DBIA, ENV SP, PMP, Senior Associate believes in architecture’s ability to create a sustainable future through design excellence. Concentrating on the design of urban transportation and infrastructure projects, he is committed to an engaged, collaborative process that fulfills the team’s design aspirations as well as meets the needs of stakeholders. Adam’s skill as a project manager carries through to the construction site. Jon King AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Associate has the ability to integrate and manage functionality and design goals results in built projects with enduring and sustainable value. He applies a deep understanding of high-performance building practices to his projects informed in part through continual research and collaboration with industry experts on subjects including thermal envelope assemblies and building systems. Formally trained in both architecture and product design, Patrick McAffrey AIA, Senior Associate ’s passion for intelligent urbanism has led him to focus his work on infrastructure and transportation projects, which he believes have profound impact on the building fabric and urban lifestyles they support. Patrick is the project manager for Department of Sanitation’s (DSNY) District 3 Garage under construction in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn and the Studio Director for our Transportation/Infrastructure Studio Wei Wang AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Associate believes the architect’s role goes beyond design and function; it also uplifts communities and fosters social equity. She has experience managing projects, from mixed-use high-rise residential developments to commercial buildings. Passionate about building materials and research, Wei co-chairs the firm’s Sustainable Practice Group and AIA Committee on the Environment.  She was called upon to represent the next generation of architects as the Young Architects Representative for AIA New York State.
DB1A5708 News Page
11.30.23

Bill Stein Steps into the Role of Principal Emeritus

Congratulations to William (Bill) Stein FAIA as he steps into the role of Principal Emeritus. Bill has been a vital leader of Dattner Architects for over forty-five years. His career exemplifies architecture in service to society, committed to design excellence and civic engagement. Bill studied with Richard Dattner at the City College School of Architecture (now the Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture) and joined Richard’s practice in 1977. He became an associate in 1980 and a principal in 1999. At Dattner Architects he has fostered a collaborative, inclusive culture, shaping buildings that serve social needs and improve neighborhoods. He has directed notable civic and housing projects throughout New York City and guided the growth of the firm’s affordable housing practice. From Public School 234 in the heart of Tribeca, to the landmark West 72nd Street Subway Station, to The New York Public Library’s Bronx Library Center, to Via Verde, the award-winning, sustainable affordable housing development, Bill’s work has had a lasting impact on the public realm and the lives of New Yorkers. Bill is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects. He served as a Vice-President of AIA NY and President of the Center for Architecture Foundation. He chaired a code review committee for the NYC Model Code Adoption and is a board member of the Citizens Housing & Planning Council. In 2021 he received the Henry Hobson Richardson Award from the AIA NYS, recognizing architects who have made a significant contribution to the quality of public architecture in New York State.
Congratulations to William (Bill) Stein FAIA as he steps into the role of Principal Emeritus. Bill has been a vital leader of Dattner Architects for over forty-five years. His career exemplifies architecture in service to society, committed to design excellence and civic engagement. Bill studied with Richard Dattner at the City College School of Architecture (now the Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture) and joined Richard’s practice in 1977. He became an associate in 1980 and a principal in 1999. At Dattner Architects he has fostered a collaborative, inclusive culture, shaping buildings that serve social needs and improve neighborhoods. He has directed notable civic and housing projects throughout New York City and guided the growth of the firm’s affordable housing practice. From Public School 234 in the heart of Tribeca, to the landmark West 72nd Street Subway Station, to The New York Public Library’s Bronx Library Center, to Via Verde, the award-winning, sustainable affordable housing development, Bill’s work has had a lasting impact on the public realm and the lives of New Yorkers. Bill is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects. He served as a Vice-President of AIA NY and President of the Center for Architecture Foundation. He chaired a code review committee for the NYC Model Code Adoption and is a board member of the Citizens Housing & Planning Council. In 2021 he received the Henry Hobson Richardson Award from the AIA NYS, recognizing architects who have made a significant contribution to the quality of public architecture in New York State.
Stanley Manne Research Institute
11.15.23

ENR 2023 announced Best Project K-12 Education: Bronx High School of Science

We are thrilled to share that Dattner Architects’ project Bronx High School of Science; Stanley Manne Institute was recognized as ENR (Engineering News- Record) 2023 New York Best Project k-12 Education Project. Located at the Bronx High School of Science, the Stanley Manne Research Institute is a new state-of-the-art research building named after, and generously funded by, Bronx Science alumnus Stanley Manne. This university-level facility will allow high school students from across the Bronx to conduct long-term experiments, preparing them for college or professional settings. The building houses three multidisciplinary labs, a walk-in cold room, tissue culture room, microscopy room, sterilization room, animal room, and a multi-purpose room for special events. Like a professional lab, spaces are modular and flexible, as equipment and science requirements change over time. Each lab is served by a computational room for group meetings, lectures, and experiment data review. For more information about this category award and full list of winners: Best Project K-12 Education: Bronx High School of Science - Stanley Manne ’52 Institute of Science | Engineering News-Record (enr.com)          
We are thrilled to share that Dattner Architects’ project Bronx High School of Science; Stanley Manne Institute was recognized as ENR (Engineering News- Record) 2023 New York Best Project k-12 Education Project. Located at the Bronx High School of Science, the Stanley Manne Research Institute is a new state-of-the-art research building named after, and generously funded by, Bronx Science alumnus Stanley Manne. This university-level facility will allow high school students from across the Bronx to conduct long-term experiments, preparing them for college or professional settings. The building houses three multidisciplinary labs, a walk-in cold room, tissue culture room, microscopy room, sterilization room, animal room, and a multi-purpose room for special events. Like a professional lab, spaces are modular and flexible, as equipment and science requirements change over time. Each lab is served by a computational room for group meetings, lectures, and experiment data review. For more information about this category award and full list of winners: Best Project K-12 Education: Bronx High School of Science - Stanley Manne ’52 Institute of Science | Engineering News-Record (enr.com)          
23 1110 PHIUS Featured
11.10.23

Dattner Architects Receives Multiple PHIUS Awards

We are thrilled to share that Dattner Architects’ projects Vital Brookdale and Chestnut Commons projects each won multiple PHIUS Design Competition awards at the PhiusCon 2023, held earlier this week. Vital Brookdale, an exemplary model of community-based housing plus healthcare, won Best Overall Project and was named the Winner in the Low-Rise Multifamily category.    Vital Brookdale is the first project in New York State’s Vital Brooklyn Initiative, a program designed to improve Central Brooklyn’s low-income residents’ access to health, wellness, and housing. The design and programming of the building sets a new benchmark for high-quality, sustainable, health-focused, affordable housing mixed-use developments. The low-carbon development is Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) + 2015 certified, an international standard of building for maximized energy efficiency. Chestnut Commons was announced as a winner for High-Rise Multifamily Category. One of the first developments stemming from the East New York Neighborhood Plan, Chestnut Commons provides affordable housing for formerly homeless and low-income households. 275 affordable housing apartments are supported by an integrated programming package, including communal spaces on the second floor with direct access to a landscaped roof terrace. Community-centric in both design and development, the project integrates a community center operated by Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation, a satellite Community College campus, a food manufacturing incubator that provides job training, and a credit union.  
We are thrilled to share that Dattner Architects’ projects Vital Brookdale and Chestnut Commons projects each won multiple PHIUS Design Competition awards at the PhiusCon 2023, held earlier this week. Vital Brookdale, an exemplary model of community-based housing plus healthcare, won Best Overall Project and was named the Winner in the Low-Rise Multifamily category.    Vital Brookdale is the first project in New York State’s Vital Brooklyn Initiative, a program designed to improve Central Brooklyn’s low-income residents’ access to health, wellness, and housing. The design and programming of the building sets a new benchmark for high-quality, sustainable, health-focused, affordable housing mixed-use developments. The low-carbon development is Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) + 2015 certified, an international standard of building for maximized energy efficiency. Chestnut Commons was announced as a winner for High-Rise Multifamily Category. One of the first developments stemming from the East New York Neighborhood Plan, Chestnut Commons provides affordable housing for formerly homeless and low-income households. 275 affordable housing apartments are supported by an integrated programming package, including communal spaces on the second floor with direct access to a landscaped roof terrace. Community-centric in both design and development, the project integrates a community center operated by Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation, a satellite Community College campus, a food manufacturing incubator that provides job training, and a credit union.  
Hero
11.03.23

Chestnut Commons wins SARA National Awards

Chestnut Commons won two awards at the SARA National Design Awards this weekend! The project is the winner of both the Design Excellence Award and the Multi-Family Residential: Affordable Housing, Low Income Housing, Market Rate Housing. Chestnut Commons is an innovative, sustainable, mixed-use development that provides critically needed affordable housing to over 600 formerly homeless and low-income households. Community-centric in both design and development, the project integrates a satellite Community College campus, workforce training, and a credit union – all within a Passive House building. Developed and operated by locally based organizations with strong community ties, the project strengthens the neighborhood with the inclusion of economic development and educational opportunities, arts programming, and job training services. Chestnut Commons exemplifies an innovative affordable housing model for sustainable development. The project provides not only urgently needed affordable housing, but a deep commitment to environmental equity and community building. The Society of American Registered Architects (SARA) National Design Awards celebrates excellence in architecture & design.
Chestnut Commons won two awards at the SARA National Design Awards this weekend! The project is the winner of both the Design Excellence Award and the Multi-Family Residential: Affordable Housing, Low Income Housing, Market Rate Housing. Chestnut Commons is an innovative, sustainable, mixed-use development that provides critically needed affordable housing to over 600 formerly homeless and low-income households. Community-centric in both design and development, the project integrates a satellite Community College campus, workforce training, and a credit union – all within a Passive House building. Developed and operated by locally based organizations with strong community ties, the project strengthens the neighborhood with the inclusion of economic development and educational opportunities, arts programming, and job training services. Chestnut Commons exemplifies an innovative affordable housing model for sustainable development. The project provides not only urgently needed affordable housing, but a deep commitment to environmental equity and community building. The Society of American Registered Architects (SARA) National Design Awards celebrates excellence in architecture & design.
Equity And Affordability In Housing Series EDIT
10.27.23

Shefali Sanghvi on AIA Equity and Affordability in Housing Panel

AIA New York State, New Jersey and Pennsylvania will present a three-part online series on equity and affordability in housing on November 10, November 17, and December 1, 2023. The panel From the Architect’s View: The Challenges and Opportunities Implementing Sustainability in Housing, will feature Shefali Sanghvi, Director of Sustainability, Dattner Architects. It is being held on Friday, November 17, 10:30am-12:00pm EST. The panel will examine challenges and opportunities around implementing sustainability in affordable housing covering topics such as how design sustainability should be defined, how we ensure that we, as designers, do not lose aspect of the human scale of our work, and how we are looking forward in our work. At Dattner Architects, we are dedicated to achieving high levels of urban sustainability and density – pioneering green civic and residential design and helping communities affected by climate change. Our Sustainable Practice Group (SPG) facilitates a positive environmental impact and improves occupant health, equity, and the resilience of Dattner projects through research on energy use, renewable energy, indoor environment and human health, sustainable materials, site ecology, and urban infrastructure. Join us for insightful discussions on the housing sector in the tri-state region. You can register for entire series or individual programs here: About - Tri-State Equity and Affordability in Housing Webinar Series (cvent.com)      
AIA New York State, New Jersey and Pennsylvania will present a three-part online series on equity and affordability in housing on November 10, November 17, and December 1, 2023. The panel From the Architect’s View: The Challenges and Opportunities Implementing Sustainability in Housing, will feature Shefali Sanghvi, Director of Sustainability, Dattner Architects. It is being held on Friday, November 17, 10:30am-12:00pm EST. The panel will examine challenges and opportunities around implementing sustainability in affordable housing covering topics such as how design sustainability should be defined, how we ensure that we, as designers, do not lose aspect of the human scale of our work, and how we are looking forward in our work. At Dattner Architects, we are dedicated to achieving high levels of urban sustainability and density – pioneering green civic and residential design and helping communities affected by climate change. Our Sustainable Practice Group (SPG) facilitates a positive environmental impact and improves occupant health, equity, and the resilience of Dattner projects through research on energy use, renewable energy, indoor environment and human health, sustainable materials, site ecology, and urban infrastructure. Join us for insightful discussions on the housing sector in the tri-state region. You can register for entire series or individual programs here: About - Tri-State Equity and Affordability in Housing Webinar Series (cvent.com)      
Metropolis CC Newspost 1
10.25.23

Chestnut Commons wins Planet Positive Award!

Chestnut Commons is the 2023 Multi-family/Mixed Use winner of the Metropolis Planet Positive Award!  This awards program recognizes design for a regenerative and equitable future. Judged by four expert juries across project types, regions, and product categories, award winners represent “the highest achievements in design that addresses climate change, ecosystem health, human health, and equity.” Chestnut Commons is an innovative and community-centric Passive House development that provides 275 critically needed affordable apartments to formerly homeless and low-income households in the Cypress Hill section of Brooklyn. This project is part of the East New York Neighborhood Plan and delivers on the commitment to provide meaningful affordable housing that allows residents to stay within their community. A model for sustainable development through its community-centric approach, and in its Passive House systems and detailing, Chestnut Commons exemplifies an innovative affordable housing model. Projects such as Chestnut Commons provide not only urgently needed affordable housing for those that need it most, but a deep commitment to environmental equity by utilizing a building type that is both highly energy efficient and resilient. Developed and operated in conjunction with local organizations, Chestnut Commons supports the neighborhood with economic development and educational opportunities, arts programs, and job training services. Programming includes a Brooklyn Cooperative Federal Credit Union branch, a café, and a kitchen incubator.
Chestnut Commons is the 2023 Multi-family/Mixed Use winner of the Metropolis Planet Positive Award!  This awards program recognizes design for a regenerative and equitable future. Judged by four expert juries across project types, regions, and product categories, award winners represent “the highest achievements in design that addresses climate change, ecosystem health, human health, and equity.” Chestnut Commons is an innovative and community-centric Passive House development that provides 275 critically needed affordable apartments to formerly homeless and low-income households in the Cypress Hill section of Brooklyn. This project is part of the East New York Neighborhood Plan and delivers on the commitment to provide meaningful affordable housing that allows residents to stay within their community. A model for sustainable development through its community-centric approach, and in its Passive House systems and detailing, Chestnut Commons exemplifies an innovative affordable housing model. Projects such as Chestnut Commons provide not only urgently needed affordable housing for those that need it most, but a deep commitment to environmental equity by utilizing a building type that is both highly energy efficient and resilient. Developed and operated in conjunction with local organizations, Chestnut Commons supports the neighborhood with economic development and educational opportunities, arts programs, and job training services. Programming includes a Brooklyn Cooperative Federal Credit Union branch, a café, and a kitchen incubator.
Dattner Architects, Broome Street Development, New York, New York
10.18.23

Celebrate OHNY Weekend with Dattner Architects

Open House New York (OHNY) is back with its annual citywide celebration of architecture! Offering a unique opportunity to experience New York City and the built environment, Dattner Architects will participate in this year’s OHNY Weekend with in-person tours at projects on Saturday, October 21, Chestnut Commons and Sunday, October 22, Broome Street Development. Chestnut Commons Located on an underused public land bounded by Dinsmore Place, Chestnut Street, and Atlantic Avenue, Chestnut Commons provides 275 affordable housing units to formerly homeless, extremely low-, very low-, and low-income households. This project is part of the East New York Neighborhood Plan, released in 2016 as part of the East New York new neighborhood rezoning, outlining a commitment to expedite the construction of deeply affordable housing. This new 14-story development offers a variety of uses contributing to a self-sustaining community with activities that support, enhance, and stimulate the surrounding community. The residential portion of the building integrates programming throughout, including communal spaces on the second floor with direct access to a landscaped roof terrace for residents, extending indoor activities to the outdoors. A large portion of the 14th floor roof is a gardening area with raised planting beds to create opportunities for active planting and vegetable cultivation. Broome Street Development Our recently completed Suffolk and Norfolk buildings are located just South of the Essex Crossing in the Lower East Side. The 460,000 square foot mixed-use development encompasses a diverse mix of market-rate, affordable and senior housing, as well as a community facility, retail space and the headquarters for a well-known neighborhood social services organization. The building covers most of the city block, fronting multiple streets.  It incorporates a combination of different building heights, window proportions and careful brick detailing that relate to the mix of scales that characterize this vibrant and ever-changing neighborhood. We can’t wait to celebrate OHNY Weekend with all of you. See you on October 21-22!
Open House New York (OHNY) is back with its annual citywide celebration of architecture! Offering a unique opportunity to experience New York City and the built environment, Dattner Architects will participate in this year’s OHNY Weekend with in-person tours at projects on Saturday, October 21, Chestnut Commons and Sunday, October 22, Broome Street Development. Chestnut Commons Located on an underused public land bounded by Dinsmore Place, Chestnut Street, and Atlantic Avenue, Chestnut Commons provides 275 affordable housing units to formerly homeless, extremely low-, very low-, and low-income households. This project is part of the East New York Neighborhood Plan, released in 2016 as part of the East New York new neighborhood rezoning, outlining a commitment to expedite the construction of deeply affordable housing. This new 14-story development offers a variety of uses contributing to a self-sustaining community with activities that support, enhance, and stimulate the surrounding community. The residential portion of the building integrates programming throughout, including communal spaces on the second floor with direct access to a landscaped roof terrace for residents, extending indoor activities to the outdoors. A large portion of the 14th floor roof is a gardening area with raised planting beds to create opportunities for active planting and vegetable cultivation. Broome Street Development Our recently completed Suffolk and Norfolk buildings are located just South of the Essex Crossing in the Lower East Side. The 460,000 square foot mixed-use development encompasses a diverse mix of market-rate, affordable and senior housing, as well as a community facility, retail space and the headquarters for a well-known neighborhood social services organization. The building covers most of the city block, fronting multiple streets.  It incorporates a combination of different building heights, window proportions and careful brick detailing that relate to the mix of scales that characterize this vibrant and ever-changing neighborhood. We can’t wait to celebrate OHNY Weekend with all of you. See you on October 21-22!
Arch30 New York 23 Web
10.12.23

Dattner Architects and METROPOLIS Arch30

Dattner Architects' Brandon Wang and Pascale Baladi were invited and engaged participants at the inaugural METROPOLIS Arch 30 program, which recognizes the next generation of leadership in architecture. Collaborating with leading design firms in select cities, METROPOLIS identifies top talent under the age of 30 that share a commitment to sustainability and knowledge sharing. Each group meets for a workshop led by the magazine's editors, followed by networking opportunities with program partners. Avi Rajagopal, editor in chief, and Verda Alexander, editor at large, were workshop facilitators. They "encouraged the young leaders in architecture to think about the challenges they face at work, how to find the support they need, and how to identify and pursue purposeful work."  Pascale and Brandon found the evening energizing and the interactive experience connecting with peers, exchanging insights, and sharing thoughts about leadership, sustainability, and architecture practices at their respective workplaces incredibly valuable. “It is an honor to have been nominated for METROPOLIS' inaugural Arch30 Event and to have the chance to connect with many like-minded young professionals who are eager to learn and push the industry forward with ambition, innovation, and camaraderie. I came out of it feeling empowered to be part of such a capable generation of architects, who simultaneously have become a peer support network.” – Pascale Baladi Read more: METROPOLIS Honors its First Arch30 Cohort in New York - Metropolis (metropolismag.com)
Dattner Architects' Brandon Wang and Pascale Baladi were invited and engaged participants at the inaugural METROPOLIS Arch 30 program, which recognizes the next generation of leadership in architecture. Collaborating with leading design firms in select cities, METROPOLIS identifies top talent under the age of 30 that share a commitment to sustainability and knowledge sharing. Each group meets for a workshop led by the magazine's editors, followed by networking opportunities with program partners. Avi Rajagopal, editor in chief, and Verda Alexander, editor at large, were workshop facilitators. They "encouraged the young leaders in architecture to think about the challenges they face at work, how to find the support they need, and how to identify and pursue purposeful work."  Pascale and Brandon found the evening energizing and the interactive experience connecting with peers, exchanging insights, and sharing thoughts about leadership, sustainability, and architecture practices at their respective workplaces incredibly valuable. “It is an honor to have been nominated for METROPOLIS' inaugural Arch30 Event and to have the chance to connect with many like-minded young professionals who are eager to learn and push the industry forward with ambition, innovation, and camaraderie. I came out of it feeling empowered to be part of such a capable generation of architects, who simultaneously have become a peer support network.” – Pascale Baladi Read more: METROPOLIS Honors its First Arch30 Cohort in New York - Metropolis (metropolismag.com)
Via Verde
08.30.23

Via Verde – Celebrating its 10-year Anniversary

A decade after being selected as the winning entry in the New Housing New York Legacy Competition, Via Verde continues to serve as an archetype for future subsidized housing in New York City and beyond. The project set a precedent for how to achieve lofty design and sustainability goals for an affordable housing development while adhering to a strict budget. Ultimately creating 202 apartments spread across three distinct residential programs, Via Verde will continue to provide equitable, sustainable housing for South Bronx residents well into the future. In celebration of Via Verde's 10-year anniversary of operation Jonathan Rose Companies and Phipps Neighborhoods compiled a video detailing the history of the community. Included below is a snippet from the video, along with a link to the full version. We teamed with Grimshaw Architects and Weintraub Diaz Landscape Architecture to bring this visionary building to life. [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://www.dattner.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sequence-01.mp4"][/video] To watch the full video please visit this link: https://youtu.be/lFNdULp9xD4
A decade after being selected as the winning entry in the New Housing New York Legacy Competition, Via Verde continues to serve as an archetype for future subsidized housing in New York City and beyond. The project set a precedent for how to achieve lofty design and sustainability goals for an affordable housing development while adhering to a strict budget. Ultimately creating 202 apartments spread across three distinct residential programs, Via Verde will continue to provide equitable, sustainable housing for South Bronx residents well into the future. In celebration of Via Verde's 10-year anniversary of operation Jonathan Rose Companies and Phipps Neighborhoods compiled a video detailing the history of the community. Included below is a snippet from the video, along with a link to the full version. We teamed with Grimshaw Architects and Weintraub Diaz Landscape Architecture to bring this visionary building to life. [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://www.dattner.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sequence-01.mp4"][/video] To watch the full video please visit this link: https://youtu.be/lFNdULp9xD4
JFK Areal Rendering
08.24.23

Dattner Architects on team for the $1.24B contract to design and build JFK’s Central Terminal Roadways and Ground Transportation Center

Dattner Architects is excited to be the Architect on the team for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $1.24 billion contract to design and build John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Central Terminal Area Roadways, Utilities and Ground Transportation Center (GTC) in Queens, New York. Parsons Corporation is serving as lead designer to the Skanska Halmar JFK Joint Venture. The project is a key part of the $19 billion public-private transformation of JFK into a world-class airport. When complete, it will dramatically improve access to the airport by simplifying the existing complex roadway network, providing easier to navigate access to terminals with improved frontage areas, and building a new ground transportation center for passengers to connect to taxis, for-hire vehicles, mass transit and parking. The design-build project consists of the design and construction of the on-airport roadway transportation network which includes roadway reconfiguration, maintenance and protection of traffic, intuitive wayfinding and enhanced traffic technologies, at-grade pavement, retaining walls and bridges as well as utility relocations and upgrades. The project will improve user connectivity and access to the surrounding terminals. Also included, is the design and construction of a modern Ground Transportation Center which features: 1,950-space multi-level vehicle parking facility equipped with electric vehicle charging stations and an eco-conscious timber façade 400-foot-long elevated pedestrian bridge with pedestrian canopies Rainwater harvesting facility Energy-efficient provisions for solar paneling Read more below: https://www.panynj.gov/port-authority/en/press-room/press-release-archives/2022-press-releases1/port-authority-signs--1-24-billion-contract-to-design-and-build-.html
Dattner Architects is excited to be the Architect on the team for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $1.24 billion contract to design and build John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Central Terminal Area Roadways, Utilities and Ground Transportation Center (GTC) in Queens, New York. Parsons Corporation is serving as lead designer to the Skanska Halmar JFK Joint Venture. The project is a key part of the $19 billion public-private transformation of JFK into a world-class airport. When complete, it will dramatically improve access to the airport by simplifying the existing complex roadway network, providing easier to navigate access to terminals with improved frontage areas, and building a new ground transportation center for passengers to connect to taxis, for-hire vehicles, mass transit and parking. The design-build project consists of the design and construction of the on-airport roadway transportation network which includes roadway reconfiguration, maintenance and protection of traffic, intuitive wayfinding and enhanced traffic technologies, at-grade pavement, retaining walls and bridges as well as utility relocations and upgrades. The project will improve user connectivity and access to the surrounding terminals. Also included, is the design and construction of a modern Ground Transportation Center which features: 1,950-space multi-level vehicle parking facility equipped with electric vehicle charging stations and an eco-conscious timber façade 400-foot-long elevated pedestrian bridge with pedestrian canopies Rainwater harvesting facility Energy-efficient provisions for solar paneling Read more below: https://www.panynj.gov/port-authority/en/press-room/press-release-archives/2022-press-releases1/port-authority-signs--1-24-billion-contract-to-design-and-build-.html
0 First Image
08.14.23

Dattner selected to design Hoboken Maritime Park

Launched by the City of Hoboken, the Maritime Park Concept Design spans from March 2023 to November 2023 and includes a multi-disciplinary core team led by Dattner Architects, with SCAPE, Indigo River and Kimley Horn. As the final missing link in completing Hoboken's section of the New Jersey Hudson River Walkway, the site's conversion to the new Maritime Park will create a contiguous waterfront park from southern Pier A all the way north to Weehawken Cove. The Hoboken Maritime Park Project is a visioning, planning, and community engagement process to re-imagine the former Union Dry Dock, the last remaining industrial site along the Hoboken waterfront. The intent is to build sustainable and resilient pieces of public parks infrastructure for the visitors and residents while maintaining the city’s waterfront history. The first of three planned public meetings was held April 4th, 2023. Its aim was to share and discuss the project team’s site analysis and include the community in the visioning process though science fair-style thematic stations. The feedback gathered in the first workshop as well as the online survey informed three design approaches that were presented in a Public Meeting on July 11, 2023. We are excited to share the Design Approaches presented at the meeting. By aligning the Hudson River Walkway with Frank Sinatra Drive, the Civic Pier Approach provides expansive spaces for gathering including a Civic Hub (building), Lookout Lawn, and a reconstructed Programmed Pier with berths for Event Barges. The Civic Pier Approach provides Hoboken with a civic waterfront destination centered around gathering and immersive river experiences. You can view the presentation and work the team has done to date and stay informed for future updates at the following website:  https://maritime-park-cityofhoboken.hub.arcgis.com/ The future Maritime Park site sits within a short walking distance to a series of well-loved public parks and open spaces. The close proximity of a number of existing programs and amenities should inform the program selection for the future park to avoid redundancy. The unique location of the site along the waterfront should be seen as an opportunity to establish a new relationship with the water. “This is an important moment in Hoboken’s history, in which residents will help us build a beautiful waterfront park that will benefit generations of Hoboken residents to come... We’ve fought long and hard to ensure this site is preserved for resident access, and I’m excited to hear what amenities our community envisions for this world class park.” said Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla in his fourth State of the City address in March 2023.
Launched by the City of Hoboken, the Maritime Park Concept Design spans from March 2023 to November 2023 and includes a multi-disciplinary core team led by Dattner Architects, with SCAPE, Indigo River and Kimley Horn. As the final missing link in completing Hoboken's section of the New Jersey Hudson River Walkway, the site's conversion to the new Maritime Park will create a contiguous waterfront park from southern Pier A all the way north to Weehawken Cove. The Hoboken Maritime Park Project is a visioning, planning, and community engagement process to re-imagine the former Union Dry Dock, the last remaining industrial site along the Hoboken waterfront. The intent is to build sustainable and resilient pieces of public parks infrastructure for the visitors and residents while maintaining the city’s waterfront history. The first of three planned public meetings was held April 4th, 2023. Its aim was to share and discuss the project team’s site analysis and include the community in the visioning process though science fair-style thematic stations. The feedback gathered in the first workshop as well as the online survey informed three design approaches that were presented in a Public Meeting on July 11, 2023. We are excited to share the Design Approaches presented at the meeting. By aligning the Hudson River Walkway with Frank Sinatra Drive, the Civic Pier Approach provides expansive spaces for gathering including a Civic Hub (building), Lookout Lawn, and a reconstructed Programmed Pier with berths for Event Barges. The Civic Pier Approach provides Hoboken with a civic waterfront destination centered around gathering and immersive river experiences. You can view the presentation and work the team has done to date and stay informed for future updates at the following website:  https://maritime-park-cityofhoboken.hub.arcgis.com/ The future Maritime Park site sits within a short walking distance to a series of well-loved public parks and open spaces. The close proximity of a number of existing programs and amenities should inform the program selection for the future park to avoid redundancy. The unique location of the site along the waterfront should be seen as an opportunity to establish a new relationship with the water. “This is an important moment in Hoboken’s history, in which residents will help us build a beautiful waterfront park that will benefit generations of Hoboken residents to come... We’ve fought long and hard to ensure this site is preserved for resident access, and I’m excited to hear what amenities our community envisions for this world class park.” said Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla in his fourth State of the City address in March 2023.
Ruth Ro Madame Architects Featured
06.29.23

Ruth Ro featured in Madame Architect

Dattner Architects’ Principal Ruth Ro AIA is featured in Madame Architect, a platform that highlights and celebrates diverse and inspiring women that shape the architecture industry. In an interview with Madame Architect founder, Julia Gamolina, Ruth gives her thoughts on authenticity, inclusivity, and bringing your whole self to work. “I’m always inserting my identity into casual conversation. It’s important. As a Partner, I try to create a work environment that is inclusive, to give everyone an opportunity to do their best work, and to encourage diverse perspectives.” Ruth joined Dattner Architects in 2012 and was elevated to Principal in 2022. In 2020, Ruth founded the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion group at Dattner Architects — tackling intersectional issues that affect minority employees in the workplace. As a leader and mentor, she is dedicated to facilitating an inclusive and understanding workplace. Ruth leads many of the firm’s large mixed-use projects, which currently include Steiner Sequel in Sunset Park.
Dattner Architects’ Principal Ruth Ro AIA is featured in Madame Architect, a platform that highlights and celebrates diverse and inspiring women that shape the architecture industry. In an interview with Madame Architect founder, Julia Gamolina, Ruth gives her thoughts on authenticity, inclusivity, and bringing your whole self to work. “I’m always inserting my identity into casual conversation. It’s important. As a Partner, I try to create a work environment that is inclusive, to give everyone an opportunity to do their best work, and to encourage diverse perspectives.” Ruth joined Dattner Architects in 2012 and was elevated to Principal in 2022. In 2020, Ruth founded the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion group at Dattner Architects — tackling intersectional issues that affect minority employees in the workplace. As a leader and mentor, she is dedicated to facilitating an inclusive and understanding workplace. Ruth leads many of the firm’s large mixed-use projects, which currently include Steiner Sequel in Sunset Park.
23 0619 Neighborhoods Now Hero Image Option 1
06.20.23

Neighborhoods Now: Kingsbridge Community District Needs Assessment

Neighborhoods Now is a community-led design initiative to help NYC recover from the effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Launched in Spring 2020, by the Urban Design Forum and Van Alen Institute, the initiative taps into a collective network of architects, engineers, and designers to support local organizations leading their community’s recovery. Dattner Architects stepped forward to lend support, and we have been involved with the initiative ever since. Through Neighborhoods Now, one of the groups we worked with is the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition (NWBCCC) – a member-led, grassroots organization fighting for racial and economic equity in the Bronx. They have completed a Community District Needs Assessment to illustrate the current challenges and opportunities for small businesses and tenants in the immediate vicinity of the Kingsbridge Armory as it undergoes a potential redevelopment. The report aims to highlight the features of urban life in the Kingsbridge Neighborhood and tell a story of the diversity, passion, and tenacity of this neighborhood and its residents. “For us, the Bronx is home. It’s where we raise families, get an education, go to work, own businesses, create art, and find spiritual connection. We are people whose families have lived here for generations. And we are people who have come here from other boroughs and countries. Our community reflects a diversity of races, ethnicities, cultures, and faith traditions.” -NWBCCC In a joint effort to empower and uplift the Kingsbridge community, Dattner Architects joined Neighborhoods Now’s collective network of interdisciplinary partnerships, along with Scalar Architecture to support NWBCCC in their vision for a more resilient future. Learn more about the initiative here.
Neighborhoods Now is a community-led design initiative to help NYC recover from the effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Launched in Spring 2020, by the Urban Design Forum and Van Alen Institute, the initiative taps into a collective network of architects, engineers, and designers to support local organizations leading their community’s recovery. Dattner Architects stepped forward to lend support, and we have been involved with the initiative ever since. Through Neighborhoods Now, one of the groups we worked with is the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition (NWBCCC) – a member-led, grassroots organization fighting for racial and economic equity in the Bronx. They have completed a Community District Needs Assessment to illustrate the current challenges and opportunities for small businesses and tenants in the immediate vicinity of the Kingsbridge Armory as it undergoes a potential redevelopment. The report aims to highlight the features of urban life in the Kingsbridge Neighborhood and tell a story of the diversity, passion, and tenacity of this neighborhood and its residents. “For us, the Bronx is home. It’s where we raise families, get an education, go to work, own businesses, create art, and find spiritual connection. We are people whose families have lived here for generations. And we are people who have come here from other boroughs and countries. Our community reflects a diversity of races, ethnicities, cultures, and faith traditions.” -NWBCCC In a joint effort to empower and uplift the Kingsbridge community, Dattner Architects joined Neighborhoods Now’s collective network of interdisciplinary partnerships, along with Scalar Architecture to support NWBCCC in their vision for a more resilient future. Learn more about the initiative here.
22-1102-425-Roll-Over-1
04.27.23

425 Grand Concourse Wins Green Good Design Award

Dattner Architects is proud to share that 425 Grand Concourse has won a 2023 Green Good Design Award! Organized by the European Centre and the Chicago Athenaeum, the Green Good Design Sustainability Awards recognizes "outstanding individuals, companies, organizations, governments, and institutions — together with their products, services, programs, ideas, and concepts — that have forwarded exceptional thinking and inspired greater progress toward a more healthier and more sustainable universe." The largest PHIUS-certified Passive House project in North America, 425 Grand Concourse is a new mixed-use and mixed-income development, providing the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx with 277 affordable housing apartments. The project also includes an educational student services center, health clinic, supermarket, cultural space, and other community amenities. The design of 425 Grand Concourse honors the history of the site, which sits on land formerly occupied by Public School 31, a Bronx institution originally built in 1899. The former property fell into disrepair and remained abandoned for many years. In tribute to the site’s rich history, the PS 31 sign and other decorative façade elements were salvaged and are on display in the lobby of 425 Grand Concourse. The development implements high-efficiency building systems with an air-tight building envelope, energy recovery ventilation, and sustainable features to significantly reduce heat loss and gain. The project will surpass the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria and the design incorporates NYC Active Design Guidelines to encourage opportunities for physical activity. This benchmark sustainable project provides a model for healthy living environments in a district with one of the worst childhood asthma rates in the country. Architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning projects, product, and graphic designs from over 32 nations were awarded with Green Good Design awards, representing the world’s most important design firms, manufacturers, and leading FORTUNE 500 corporations that are forwarding a new emphasis on a more sustainable design and environment worldwide.
Dattner Architects is proud to share that 425 Grand Concourse has won a 2023 Green Good Design Award! Organized by the European Centre and the Chicago Athenaeum, the Green Good Design Sustainability Awards recognizes "outstanding individuals, companies, organizations, governments, and institutions — together with their products, services, programs, ideas, and concepts — that have forwarded exceptional thinking and inspired greater progress toward a more healthier and more sustainable universe." The largest PHIUS-certified Passive House project in North America, 425 Grand Concourse is a new mixed-use and mixed-income development, providing the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx with 277 affordable housing apartments. The project also includes an educational student services center, health clinic, supermarket, cultural space, and other community amenities. The design of 425 Grand Concourse honors the history of the site, which sits on land formerly occupied by Public School 31, a Bronx institution originally built in 1899. The former property fell into disrepair and remained abandoned for many years. In tribute to the site’s rich history, the PS 31 sign and other decorative façade elements were salvaged and are on display in the lobby of 425 Grand Concourse. The development implements high-efficiency building systems with an air-tight building envelope, energy recovery ventilation, and sustainable features to significantly reduce heat loss and gain. The project will surpass the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria and the design incorporates NYC Active Design Guidelines to encourage opportunities for physical activity. This benchmark sustainable project provides a model for healthy living environments in a district with one of the worst childhood asthma rates in the country. Architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning projects, product, and graphic designs from over 32 nations were awarded with Green Good Design awards, representing the world’s most important design firms, manufacturers, and leading FORTUNE 500 corporations that are forwarding a new emphasis on a more sustainable design and environment worldwide.
AIA New York State Excelsior Award, Vital Brookdale
04.25.23

Vital Brookdale Wins AIA New York State Excelsior Award

Dattner Architects is proud to announce that Vital Brookdale is a recipient of a 2023 AIA New York State Excelsior Award! This prestigious award recognizes a project's overall performance, design excellence, and impact on the community — all within the context of a publicly funded project. “It is an honor for our Vital Brookdale project to be recognized as a recipient of the 2023 AIA New York State Excelsior Award. Offering community-based healthcare, supportive services, and sustainable and modern features, Vital Brookdale has created a new standard for the future of affordable housing developments. Thank you to AIA, the Brooklyn community, the State, and all of our incredible partners for making this possible.” — Michael T. Rooney, Founding Principal, MDG Design + Construction Vital Brookdale is located on a unique site that was originally an ineffectively-used surface parking lot for an adjacent hospital. Through an innovative public-private partnership, the site was transformed, creating 160 units of affordable housing and 25,000 square feet of health-focused community space in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn. "Vital Brookdale is a successful example of how Passive House can be incorporated into our existing affordable housing framework in NYC. As the first project to be completed as part of NYS’ Vital Initiative, it’s been gratifying to work on a project that highlights health and wellness as just as critical to sustainability as energy efficiency. Construction started in April 2020, and it was a true team effort to get this project completed while navigating how to build a Passive House project when most people were working from home. We’re glad to see our collective hard work, the mission of the project, and the overall design, recognized by AIA NYS." — Shefali Sanghvi AIA, Director of Sustainability, Dattner Architects This Passive House project has a 100kW roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system, green roof, high-performance mechanical systems, insulation and windows, LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, and several other energy-efficient measures to ensure the comfort and affordability for residents as well as sustainability of the building. The design team also carefully selected interior materials while keeping in mind the ease of install, cost of material, maintenance, and impact on resident health. The end result is a project that is a model of affordable, community-based, sustainable multifamily housing in New York City. "Smith & Henzy is proud to be a member of the amazing team of professionals that came together to make Vital Brookdale a leading example of affordable sustainable development in New York.  We wish to commend Dattner Architects for their innovative design and vision for this project." — Timothy Henzy, Principal, Smith & Henzy
Dattner Architects is proud to announce that Vital Brookdale is a recipient of a 2023 AIA New York State Excelsior Award! This prestigious award recognizes a project's overall performance, design excellence, and impact on the community — all within the context of a publicly funded project. “It is an honor for our Vital Brookdale project to be recognized as a recipient of the 2023 AIA New York State Excelsior Award. Offering community-based healthcare, supportive services, and sustainable and modern features, Vital Brookdale has created a new standard for the future of affordable housing developments. Thank you to AIA, the Brooklyn community, the State, and all of our incredible partners for making this possible.” — Michael T. Rooney, Founding Principal, MDG Design + Construction Vital Brookdale is located on a unique site that was originally an ineffectively-used surface parking lot for an adjacent hospital. Through an innovative public-private partnership, the site was transformed, creating 160 units of affordable housing and 25,000 square feet of health-focused community space in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn. "Vital Brookdale is a successful example of how Passive House can be incorporated into our existing affordable housing framework in NYC. As the first project to be completed as part of NYS’ Vital Initiative, it’s been gratifying to work on a project that highlights health and wellness as just as critical to sustainability as energy efficiency. Construction started in April 2020, and it was a true team effort to get this project completed while navigating how to build a Passive House project when most people were working from home. We’re glad to see our collective hard work, the mission of the project, and the overall design, recognized by AIA NYS." — Shefali Sanghvi AIA, Director of Sustainability, Dattner Architects This Passive House project has a 100kW roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system, green roof, high-performance mechanical systems, insulation and windows, LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, and several other energy-efficient measures to ensure the comfort and affordability for residents as well as sustainability of the building. The design team also carefully selected interior materials while keeping in mind the ease of install, cost of material, maintenance, and impact on resident health. The end result is a project that is a model of affordable, community-based, sustainable multifamily housing in New York City. "Smith & Henzy is proud to be a member of the amazing team of professionals that came together to make Vital Brookdale a leading example of affordable sustainable development in New York.  We wish to commend Dattner Architects for their innovative design and vision for this project." — Timothy Henzy, Principal, Smith & Henzy
Notable Leaders in Sustainability, John Woelfling, Dattner Architects
04.17.23

John Woelfling Named One of Crain's Notable Leaders in Sustainability

Crain's New York has selected Dattner Architects' Principal John Woelfling as one of this year's sustainability pacesetters propelling New York toward a greener future. Crain's Notable Leaders in Sustainability features a list of 50 individuals who are pioneers in their fields, driving innovation, and advocating for sustainability in the areas of energy, real estate, technology, finance, and more. "As a New Yorker that has dedicated the last two decades of my professional career to designing and delivering high performance, sustainable buildings, it is an honor to receive this recognition from Crain's. Reduction of our energy usage and altering the amount of greenhouse gas emitted by humans is the existential challenge of our times. I am glad to be honored with like-minded problem solvers." — John Woelfling AIA John leads Dattner Architects' residential work, designing large-scale, urban affordable housing that embodies environmental responsibility and resident wellbeing. Under his leadership, the firm has developed specialized expertise in designing and building sustainable multi-family buildings; his commitment to sustainability and innovation has resulted in the completion of 961 new units of Passive House affordable housing for New Yorkers.
Crain's New York has selected Dattner Architects' Principal John Woelfling as one of this year's sustainability pacesetters propelling New York toward a greener future. Crain's Notable Leaders in Sustainability features a list of 50 individuals who are pioneers in their fields, driving innovation, and advocating for sustainability in the areas of energy, real estate, technology, finance, and more. "As a New Yorker that has dedicated the last two decades of my professional career to designing and delivering high performance, sustainable buildings, it is an honor to receive this recognition from Crain's. Reduction of our energy usage and altering the amount of greenhouse gas emitted by humans is the existential challenge of our times. I am glad to be honored with like-minded problem solvers." — John Woelfling AIA John leads Dattner Architects' residential work, designing large-scale, urban affordable housing that embodies environmental responsibility and resident wellbeing. Under his leadership, the firm has developed specialized expertise in designing and building sustainable multi-family buildings; his commitment to sustainability and innovation has resulted in the completion of 961 new units of Passive House affordable housing for New Yorkers.
AIA YAF Wei Feat
04.05.23

Wei Wang Named to AIA National's YAF Program

Dattner Architects' Associate Wei Wang has been named the New York State Young Architect Representative (YAR) within AIA National's Young Architects Forum (YAF) program. She has also been selected as the Committee on the Environment (COTE) liaison for YAF. The YAF program is organized to help emerging designers address important issues and serves as a collective voice for recently licensed architects. YAF's mission is to: Engage recently licensed architects in leadership to become agents of change within the profession Inspire professional growth among recently licensed architects through camaraderie and networking Advocate for issues of particular relevance to recently licensed architects Serve to make AIA memberships meaningful to recently licensed architects through programs and services Promote mentorship at all career stages to enhance personal growth, community involvement, and professional development As YAF's New York State representative, Wei will be an advocate for recently licensed designers at the local, state, and national levels as well as the bi-directional conduit of information from National to State; State to Local; and vice versa — providing monthly and bi-monthly update reports. COTE is an AIA Knowledge Community working for architects, allied professionals, and the public to achieve climate action and climate justice through design. As YAF's COTE liaison, Wei will attend monthly COTE Leadership Group meetings, provide updates on YAF activities, identify collaboration opportunities and resource needs, and engage with the Next Generation Working Group. She will also participate in YAF coordination and communicate opportunities at the national level. "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to represent the next generation of architects as the Young Architect Representative for New York State and the Committee on the Environment liaison for YAF, allowing me to collaborate with like-minded professionals to drive positive change in our industry. With sustainability and equity at the forefront of our goals, the AIA provides an ideal platform for us to translate these aspirations into tangible action. As the YAR, I am committed to fostering cross-disciplinary engagement and promoting innovative ideas that will transform the way we design and build. I look forward to working closely with YAF and COTE to advance our shared mission and make a meaningful impact in our communities." — Wei Wang AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Dattner Architects' Associate Wei Wang has been named the New York State Young Architect Representative (YAR) within AIA National's Young Architects Forum (YAF) program. She has also been selected as the Committee on the Environment (COTE) liaison for YAF. The YAF program is organized to help emerging designers address important issues and serves as a collective voice for recently licensed architects. YAF's mission is to: Engage recently licensed architects in leadership to become agents of change within the profession Inspire professional growth among recently licensed architects through camaraderie and networking Advocate for issues of particular relevance to recently licensed architects Serve to make AIA memberships meaningful to recently licensed architects through programs and services Promote mentorship at all career stages to enhance personal growth, community involvement, and professional development As YAF's New York State representative, Wei will be an advocate for recently licensed designers at the local, state, and national levels as well as the bi-directional conduit of information from National to State; State to Local; and vice versa — providing monthly and bi-monthly update reports. COTE is an AIA Knowledge Community working for architects, allied professionals, and the public to achieve climate action and climate justice through design. As YAF's COTE liaison, Wei will attend monthly COTE Leadership Group meetings, provide updates on YAF activities, identify collaboration opportunities and resource needs, and engage with the Next Generation Working Group. She will also participate in YAF coordination and communicate opportunities at the national level. "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to represent the next generation of architects as the Young Architect Representative for New York State and the Committee on the Environment liaison for YAF, allowing me to collaborate with like-minded professionals to drive positive change in our industry. With sustainability and equity at the forefront of our goals, the AIA provides an ideal platform for us to translate these aspirations into tangible action. As the YAR, I am committed to fostering cross-disciplinary engagement and promoting innovative ideas that will transform the way we design and build. I look forward to working closely with YAF and COTE to advance our shared mission and make a meaningful impact in our communities." — Wei Wang AIA, LEED AP BD+C
ASLA-NY Design Award - Alafia
04.03.23

Alafia Wins ASLA-NY Design Award

Alafia is the recipient of a Merit Award in Community Impact from the American Society of Landscape Architects - New York (ASLA-NY) chapter. The Community Impact award recognizes built and unbuilt projects focused on landscape architecture in underserved communities or impacting disadvantaged populations. Situated on a 28-acre site at the edge of New York City, Alafia is an ambitious master plan that transforms a decommissioned state psychiatric hospital into a new wellness-oriented resilient urban development designed to address the chronic social, economic, and health disparities in a historically underserved area. Once completed, Alafia will bring over 2,400 affordable apartments to the neighborhood, including units for the formerly homeless, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and seniors. This is the result of community engagement and the collaborative efforts of a public-private-nonprofit partnership. This year's ASLA-NY Design Award winners will be recognized during a ceremony on April 19 as well as on display at the Center for Architecture through the month of April in celebration of World Landscape Architecture month.
Alafia is the recipient of a Merit Award in Community Impact from the American Society of Landscape Architects - New York (ASLA-NY) chapter. The Community Impact award recognizes built and unbuilt projects focused on landscape architecture in underserved communities or impacting disadvantaged populations. Situated on a 28-acre site at the edge of New York City, Alafia is an ambitious master plan that transforms a decommissioned state psychiatric hospital into a new wellness-oriented resilient urban development designed to address the chronic social, economic, and health disparities in a historically underserved area. Once completed, Alafia will bring over 2,400 affordable apartments to the neighborhood, including units for the formerly homeless, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and seniors. This is the result of community engagement and the collaborative efforts of a public-private-nonprofit partnership. This year's ASLA-NY Design Award winners will be recognized during a ceremony on April 19 as well as on display at the Center for Architecture through the month of April in celebration of World Landscape Architecture month.
ArchNative
03.30.23

Dattner Architects x ArchNative Panel

On March 28, Dattner Architects hosted a panel discussion in collaboration with ArchNative — a women-owned platform that aims to celebrate and empower the dynamic women within the AEC and Real Estate industries. Panelists included Gia Mainiero, Heather McKinstry, Kathy Mu, Gabriella Orsi, and Annabelle Swain with ArchNative's Diana Fedorkova as moderator. The group discussed their journeys into architecture, sustainability and the built environment, the future of technology and its impact on design, and the piece of advice they would give to their younger selves. The panel concluded with a Q&A from the audience, including students from local universities, followed by a tour of the Dattner Architects' office.
On March 28, Dattner Architects hosted a panel discussion in collaboration with ArchNative — a women-owned platform that aims to celebrate and empower the dynamic women within the AEC and Real Estate industries. Panelists included Gia Mainiero, Heather McKinstry, Kathy Mu, Gabriella Orsi, and Annabelle Swain with ArchNative's Diana Fedorkova as moderator. The group discussed their journeys into architecture, sustainability and the built environment, the future of technology and its impact on design, and the piece of advice they would give to their younger selves. The panel concluded with a Q&A from the audience, including students from local universities, followed by a tour of the Dattner Architects' office.
CHPC 425 WEB FEAT
03.29.23

425 Grand Concourse Wins CHPC Award

Citizens Housing & Planning Council (CHPC) has honored 425 Grand Concourse with the Impact for Community Investment Award. "After working with a village of collaborators for seven years, 425 Grand Concourse can now be a healthy, resilient, and sustainable home for hundreds of New Yorkers. It has been such an honor for our team at Dattner Architects to have worked on this project and to demonstrate that affordable, multi-family buildings can be designed and built to Passive House standards while at the same time respecting the neighborhood history and integrating with the context. Congratulations to our clients—Trinity Financial and MBD—and all the partners that have helped raise the bar for what New York City housing can be." — John Woelfling, Principal 425 Grand Concourse provides the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx with 277 units of affordable housing, while the two-story base includes a medical facility; supermarket; community spaces for a local non-profit; comfort station for neighboring city park and playground—activating what was for nearly 20 years, an abandoned site; and a CUNY Hostos student services center. The largest PHIUS-certified Passive House development in North America, 425 Grand Concourse is a model for healthy living environments in a district with one of the worst childhood asthma rates in the country. Active ventilation brings filtered fresh air to all bedrooms and living rooms, keeping a constant flow of clean air without pollutants, pollen, or respiratory virus particles, increasing interior comfort and air quality. Continuous insulation at the façade, lack of thermal breaks, and high-quality windows mean the building stays temperate no matter the weather outdoors, even with a temporary loss of power. 425 Grand Concourse is the result of the collaboration between the design and development team, city and local stakeholders, and community members to understand and address the community’s need for more high-quality affordable homes.
Citizens Housing & Planning Council (CHPC) has honored 425 Grand Concourse with the Impact for Community Investment Award. "After working with a village of collaborators for seven years, 425 Grand Concourse can now be a healthy, resilient, and sustainable home for hundreds of New Yorkers. It has been such an honor for our team at Dattner Architects to have worked on this project and to demonstrate that affordable, multi-family buildings can be designed and built to Passive House standards while at the same time respecting the neighborhood history and integrating with the context. Congratulations to our clients—Trinity Financial and MBD—and all the partners that have helped raise the bar for what New York City housing can be." — John Woelfling, Principal 425 Grand Concourse provides the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx with 277 units of affordable housing, while the two-story base includes a medical facility; supermarket; community spaces for a local non-profit; comfort station for neighboring city park and playground—activating what was for nearly 20 years, an abandoned site; and a CUNY Hostos student services center. The largest PHIUS-certified Passive House development in North America, 425 Grand Concourse is a model for healthy living environments in a district with one of the worst childhood asthma rates in the country. Active ventilation brings filtered fresh air to all bedrooms and living rooms, keeping a constant flow of clean air without pollutants, pollen, or respiratory virus particles, increasing interior comfort and air quality. Continuous insulation at the façade, lack of thermal breaks, and high-quality windows mean the building stays temperate no matter the weather outdoors, even with a temporary loss of power. 425 Grand Concourse is the result of the collaboration between the design and development team, city and local stakeholders, and community members to understand and address the community’s need for more high-quality affordable homes.
Duberstein, GSA Design Awards
03.23.23

Duberstein Wins GSA Design Award

On March 15, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) recognized the Conrad B. Duberstein U.S. Bankruptcy Courthouse with a Citation Award in Workplace Design at an awards ceremony in Washington DC. During the event, GSA and its Administrator Robin Carnahan presented the agency's top design awards for 19 federal projects, representing the best in architecture and arts. "Through these awards, we are reaffirming our belief that excellence in design means creating spaces in which the federal government can deliver government effectively while also providing great overall experiences for the people who work in and visit federal facilities." — Robin Carnahan, GSA Administrator Duberstein, a four-story Romanesque revival structure, was originally completed in 1892 with a subsequent seven-story expansion in 1933. Today, the U.S. Courts Bankruptcy and Probation Consolidation aims to reactivate the Johnson Street entrance and upgrade the workplace through a phased approach to design and construction. This renovation reimagines the workplace environment for each U.S. Courts department and bridges the historic elements of the building with contemporary state-of-the-art office needs for future flexibility. The investment on integrated design such as energy efficiency and smart building technologies was key to the design philosophy. "The spaces are understated and straightforward, letting the building's history and its architecture speak for themselves." — Kay Sargent, GSA Design Awards Juror "On behalf of the entire AE team, I am so proud to receive this GSA Workplace award for the U.S. Courthouse consolidation project at the Conrad B. Duberstein U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in conjunction with GSA project manager, Robert Olohan. [Dattner Architects' Principal] Paul Bauer and I were excited to connect with GSA leadership, the jury, and fellow award recipients after the event in DC. Dattner looks forward to continuing these conversations on current and future endeavors." — Catherine Selby, Dattner Architects' Principal
On March 15, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) recognized the Conrad B. Duberstein U.S. Bankruptcy Courthouse with a Citation Award in Workplace Design at an awards ceremony in Washington DC. During the event, GSA and its Administrator Robin Carnahan presented the agency's top design awards for 19 federal projects, representing the best in architecture and arts. "Through these awards, we are reaffirming our belief that excellence in design means creating spaces in which the federal government can deliver government effectively while also providing great overall experiences for the people who work in and visit federal facilities." — Robin Carnahan, GSA Administrator Duberstein, a four-story Romanesque revival structure, was originally completed in 1892 with a subsequent seven-story expansion in 1933. Today, the U.S. Courts Bankruptcy and Probation Consolidation aims to reactivate the Johnson Street entrance and upgrade the workplace through a phased approach to design and construction. This renovation reimagines the workplace environment for each U.S. Courts department and bridges the historic elements of the building with contemporary state-of-the-art office needs for future flexibility. The investment on integrated design such as energy efficiency and smart building technologies was key to the design philosophy. "The spaces are understated and straightforward, letting the building's history and its architecture speak for themselves." — Kay Sargent, GSA Design Awards Juror "On behalf of the entire AE team, I am so proud to receive this GSA Workplace award for the U.S. Courthouse consolidation project at the Conrad B. Duberstein U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in conjunction with GSA project manager, Robert Olohan. [Dattner Architects' Principal] Paul Bauer and I were excited to connect with GSA leadership, the jury, and fellow award recipients after the event in DC. Dattner looks forward to continuing these conversations on current and future endeavors." — Catherine Selby, Dattner Architects' Principal
Gia NYBUILD WEB FEAT
03.10.23

Gia Mainiero at New York Build Expo

On March 8, Dattner Architects' Principal Gia Mainiero participated in a panel discussion on the future of collaborative project delivery in New York City as part of this year's New York Build Expo. Gia was joined on the panel by Alison Landry (Associate Commissioner, NYC Department of Design & Construction), Kimberlee Toscano (Senior Principal, Toscano Clements Taylor), and Raquel Diaz (Public Sector Area Manager, Gilbane) with Dennis Sanschagrin (Senior Vice President, PULLMAN SST) as panel moderator. "Our panel at New York Build was an invigorating discussion on the future of collaborative delivery in New York. Bringing together leaders from all stages of the process embodied the spirit of partnership and communication that is so core to the success of the delivery model." — Gia Mainiero, Principal New York Build is the largest construction and design show for New York and the Tri-State area, bringing together thousands of senior-level decision-makers, buyers, experts, and thought leaders from the AEC and real estate industries. The expo features 350+ high-level speakers across 12 tracks; workshops; 300+ exhibitors; live demonstrations; and networking events.
On March 8, Dattner Architects' Principal Gia Mainiero participated in a panel discussion on the future of collaborative project delivery in New York City as part of this year's New York Build Expo. Gia was joined on the panel by Alison Landry (Associate Commissioner, NYC Department of Design & Construction), Kimberlee Toscano (Senior Principal, Toscano Clements Taylor), and Raquel Diaz (Public Sector Area Manager, Gilbane) with Dennis Sanschagrin (Senior Vice President, PULLMAN SST) as panel moderator. "Our panel at New York Build was an invigorating discussion on the future of collaborative delivery in New York. Bringing together leaders from all stages of the process embodied the spirit of partnership and communication that is so core to the success of the delivery model." — Gia Mainiero, Principal New York Build is the largest construction and design show for New York and the Tri-State area, bringing together thousands of senior-level decision-makers, buyers, experts, and thought leaders from the AEC and real estate industries. The expo features 350+ high-level speakers across 12 tracks; workshops; 300+ exhibitors; live demonstrations; and networking events.
AIANY WIA Award - Dana Moore
02.02.23

Dana Moore Wins AIANY WIA Award

On January 26, AIA New York (AIANY)'s Women in Architecture (WIA) Committee celebrated women architects, who became licensed in the past year, during the committee's annual new year party at Brickworks Design Studio. As part of the festivities, the committee also honored Dattner Architects' Dana Moore with their Women in Architecture Recognition Award. This awards program highlights a recently licensed architect who demonstrates strong leadership skills and a commitment to the growth and advancement of the profession. Dana will receive a $1,000 stipend towards travel and miscellaneous expenses at this year's AIA National Conference in San Francisco. "Thank you to the Women in Architecture Committee! I'm honored to have been recognized among so many dedicated and accomplished candidates. I look forward to attending the AIA Conference in June and connecting with more sustainability-minded architects." — Dana Moore AIA Committed to socially responsible and sustainable design, Dana is an active member of the firm's Sustainable Practice Group where she has helped develop research, publications, and other knowledge-sharing initiatives. Beyond the office, Dana has taken part in the NYC Department of Sanitation's 2021 Zero Waste Academy and currently serves as an Urban Design Forum Forefront Fellow.
On January 26, AIA New York (AIANY)'s Women in Architecture (WIA) Committee celebrated women architects, who became licensed in the past year, during the committee's annual new year party at Brickworks Design Studio. As part of the festivities, the committee also honored Dattner Architects' Dana Moore with their Women in Architecture Recognition Award. This awards program highlights a recently licensed architect who demonstrates strong leadership skills and a commitment to the growth and advancement of the profession. Dana will receive a $1,000 stipend towards travel and miscellaneous expenses at this year's AIA National Conference in San Francisco. "Thank you to the Women in Architecture Committee! I'm honored to have been recognized among so many dedicated and accomplished candidates. I look forward to attending the AIA Conference in June and connecting with more sustainability-minded architects." — Dana Moore AIA Committed to socially responsible and sustainable design, Dana is an active member of the firm's Sustainable Practice Group where she has helped develop research, publications, and other knowledge-sharing initiatives. Beyond the office, Dana has taken part in the NYC Department of Sanitation's 2021 Zero Waste Academy and currently serves as an Urban Design Forum Forefront Fellow.
HM PHA WEB FEAT
02.01.23

Heather McKinstry on Passive House Accelerator Live

On February 8, Associate Heather McKinstry will take part in Passive House Accelerator (PHA) Live's Next Gen series for "Scale: Exploring the Extents of Passive House." Heather will discuss how large buildings can lower energy use, while overcoming the challenges presented by the density of urban housing. As real world solutions have been developed to meet Passive House standards, new opportunities have been created to build more efficiently across all building types. Join us as we talk about how Passive House has helped rapidly transform the market. PHA Live is a weekly series that brings together Passive House experts and those curious about Passive House to share lessons learned and best practices. PHA Live's Next Gen edition highlights the work of the next generation of practitioners and how their contributions are shaping the future of Passive House.
On February 8, Associate Heather McKinstry will take part in Passive House Accelerator (PHA) Live's Next Gen series for "Scale: Exploring the Extents of Passive House." Heather will discuss how large buildings can lower energy use, while overcoming the challenges presented by the density of urban housing. As real world solutions have been developed to meet Passive House standards, new opportunities have been created to build more efficiently across all building types. Join us as we talk about how Passive House has helped rapidly transform the market. PHA Live is a weekly series that brings together Passive House experts and those curious about Passive House to share lessons learned and best practices. PHA Live's Next Gen edition highlights the work of the next generation of practitioners and how their contributions are shaping the future of Passive House.
Dattner Architects 2023 Promotions - Kristy Philips, Brandon Wang, Matthew Barlow, Gustavo Munoz
01.04.23

Dattner Architects 2023 Promotions: Associates

In recognition of their demonstrated leadership, dedication to our firm and our values, and passion for civic architecture, Dattner Architects is proud to announce the promotions of our four new Associates: Gustavo Munoz, Brandon Wang, Kristy Phillips, and Matthew Barlow. “Our four new associates each bring a unique perspective to our practice. We are grateful for their commitment and accomplishments—and quite excited to have them join the leadership of our associates group.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Gustavo Munoz AIA With over 30 years of experience, Gustavo Munoz’s architectural expertise is in constructability and detailing. He is passionate about seeing projects come together in the field, and uses this passion to bring mixed-use, affordable housing developments to life. Gus has previous experience working directly for general contractors, developers, as well as having his own firm. Brandon Wang RA Brandon Wang approaches design with conceptual tact and environmental sensitivity. He is invested in architecture that supports and propels the infrastructural operations of cities, and promotes civic spaces. Brandon has contributed to infrastructure projects and competitions of different scales in forms of research, working drawings, visualizations, and fieldwork. He serves as a Studio Resource Leader for the firm’s Transportation and Infrastructure studio as well as a Co-Chair for the Sustainable Practice Group. Kristy Phillips AIA Kristy Phillips is interested in the environmental and social implications of her work, and focuses on designing spaces that educate, inspire, and expose people to humanized design, natural materials, and thoughtful craftsmanship. She has experience working on a variety of projects types, including schools, community centers, office buildings, and mixed-use residential developments. Matthew Barlow As Proposal and Business Development Director, Matthew Barlow leads new business development initiatives and works closely with firm leadership, design teams, and clients to develop thoughtful, tailored proposals. He is dedicated to fostering and promoting the vitality of the design process, and the evolving impact it has on the communities and environments it serves.
In recognition of their demonstrated leadership, dedication to our firm and our values, and passion for civic architecture, Dattner Architects is proud to announce the promotions of our four new Associates: Gustavo Munoz, Brandon Wang, Kristy Phillips, and Matthew Barlow. “Our four new associates each bring a unique perspective to our practice. We are grateful for their commitment and accomplishments—and quite excited to have them join the leadership of our associates group.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Gustavo Munoz AIA With over 30 years of experience, Gustavo Munoz’s architectural expertise is in constructability and detailing. He is passionate about seeing projects come together in the field, and uses this passion to bring mixed-use, affordable housing developments to life. Gus has previous experience working directly for general contractors, developers, as well as having his own firm. Brandon Wang RA Brandon Wang approaches design with conceptual tact and environmental sensitivity. He is invested in architecture that supports and propels the infrastructural operations of cities, and promotes civic spaces. Brandon has contributed to infrastructure projects and competitions of different scales in forms of research, working drawings, visualizations, and fieldwork. He serves as a Studio Resource Leader for the firm’s Transportation and Infrastructure studio as well as a Co-Chair for the Sustainable Practice Group. Kristy Phillips AIA Kristy Phillips is interested in the environmental and social implications of her work, and focuses on designing spaces that educate, inspire, and expose people to humanized design, natural materials, and thoughtful craftsmanship. She has experience working on a variety of projects types, including schools, community centers, office buildings, and mixed-use residential developments. Matthew Barlow As Proposal and Business Development Director, Matthew Barlow leads new business development initiatives and works closely with firm leadership, design teams, and clients to develop thoughtful, tailored proposals. He is dedicated to fostering and promoting the vitality of the design process, and the evolving impact it has on the communities and environments it serves.
Dattner Architects 2023 Promotions - Ruth Ro and Keith Engel
01.04.23

Dattner Architects 2023 Promotions: Principal & Associate Principal

Ruth Ro Joins Dattner Architects’ Partners Group Dattner Architects is pleased to announce that Ruth Ro AIA, LEED AP BD+C has been elevated to Principal in recognition of her contributions to the firm and her evolving role in the practice. “After 11 years at Dattner Architects, Ruth Ro is joining our partnership, becoming our fifth woman owner. To each endeavor, she brings her characteristic energy and optimism, her commitment to diversity and social equity, and her talent as a designer and project leader—I am excited to see what she creates with this expanded platform.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Naturally adept at bringing people together and facilitating dialogue, Ruth Ro leads the planning and architectural design of large-scale mixed-use projects. Her approach to working with clients and consultants is characterized by a commitment to problem solving through design and the belief in successful collaboration. Ruth is part of Dattner Architects’ Design and Technology Committee and she is one of the leaders in the firm’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee. “I am proud to be joining a partnership of colleagues whose combined strengths, shared mission, and commitment to great design continue to reinforce Dattner Architects’ reputation as good neighbors to the communities we serve and respected leaders in the profession.” — Ruth Ro Keith Engel is Elevated to Associate Principal Dattner Architects is also pleased to announce that Keith Engel AIA, LEED AP BD+C, CPHD has joined the Associate Principals group. “Keith’s professional work and advocacy for providing housing for those most in need is remarkable. As a Studio Leader at Dattner Architects, he has created an environment where professionals at all levels flourish. We are pleased to welcome him to our Associates Principals group.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Keith Engel values architecture’s ability to affect change and provide meaningful and equitable experiences, and he has dedicated his career to practicing socially responsible design with a focus on affordable and supportive housing. Keith has a nuanced perspective of a city in constant transition, and a personal commitment to a collaborative practice that invigorates neighborhoods and promotes constructive dialogue within the urban realm. He also currently serves as one of the firm’s Housing Studio Directors. “I am grateful and honored to join the Associate Principals and Principals in leading the civic mission of Dattner Architects. Consideration for essential and socially-engaged architecture is what drew me to Dattner 10 years ago, and I’m excited to continue to evolve a practice in service of those most vulnerable members of society—the unhoused in particular, and those that experience housing insecurity writ large.” — Keith Engel
Ruth Ro Joins Dattner Architects’ Partners Group Dattner Architects is pleased to announce that Ruth Ro AIA, LEED AP BD+C has been elevated to Principal in recognition of her contributions to the firm and her evolving role in the practice. “After 11 years at Dattner Architects, Ruth Ro is joining our partnership, becoming our fifth woman owner. To each endeavor, she brings her characteristic energy and optimism, her commitment to diversity and social equity, and her talent as a designer and project leader—I am excited to see what she creates with this expanded platform.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Naturally adept at bringing people together and facilitating dialogue, Ruth Ro leads the planning and architectural design of large-scale mixed-use projects. Her approach to working with clients and consultants is characterized by a commitment to problem solving through design and the belief in successful collaboration. Ruth is part of Dattner Architects’ Design and Technology Committee and she is one of the leaders in the firm’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee. “I am proud to be joining a partnership of colleagues whose combined strengths, shared mission, and commitment to great design continue to reinforce Dattner Architects’ reputation as good neighbors to the communities we serve and respected leaders in the profession.” — Ruth Ro Keith Engel is Elevated to Associate Principal Dattner Architects is also pleased to announce that Keith Engel AIA, LEED AP BD+C, CPHD has joined the Associate Principals group. “Keith’s professional work and advocacy for providing housing for those most in need is remarkable. As a Studio Leader at Dattner Architects, he has created an environment where professionals at all levels flourish. We are pleased to welcome him to our Associates Principals group.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Keith Engel values architecture’s ability to affect change and provide meaningful and equitable experiences, and he has dedicated his career to practicing socially responsible design with a focus on affordable and supportive housing. Keith has a nuanced perspective of a city in constant transition, and a personal commitment to a collaborative practice that invigorates neighborhoods and promotes constructive dialogue within the urban realm. He also currently serves as one of the firm’s Housing Studio Directors. “I am grateful and honored to join the Associate Principals and Principals in leading the civic mission of Dattner Architects. Consideration for essential and socially-engaged architecture is what drew me to Dattner 10 years ago, and I’m excited to continue to evolve a practice in service of those most vulnerable members of society—the unhoused in particular, and those that experience housing insecurity writ large.” — Keith Engel
QBBAAwards Web 3
12.22.22

QBBA Awards

Dattner Architects had the recent honor of receiving two significant awards at the Queens & Bronx Building Association (QBBA) Gala. Located in the East New York neighborhood of Brooklyn, our design for 50 Penn was recognized with a QBBA Building Award for its elegant design on a complicated site. The transit-oriented, mixed-use development sits adjacent to the elevated J/Z Subway and the below-grade A/C Subway. As a former industrial site, it was remediated through the Brownfield Cleanup Program. 50 Penn includes 218 apartments, 42 of which are dedicated to formerly homeless and elderly households. Commercial and retail spaces activate the ground floor, including a health-food grocery store developed through New York City's FRESH program which promotes nutritious, affordable, and fresh food in underserved neighborhoods. We were also honored with the first-ever QBBA Bronx Borough President's Award for 425 Grand Concourse. Borough President Gibson's Deputy BP, Janet Peguero, complimented the building design in her remarks as a gateway to the Bronx and an appropriate replacement for the former PS 31 school that previously occupied the site. 425 Grand Concourse is a model for dense urban development with 277 all-affordable apartments, a mixed-use podium that includes a CUNY Hostos student center, community medical center, and grocery store. At 26 stories and over 300,000 square feet, 425 Grand Concourse is the largest certified PHIUS Passive House project to date. "Thank you to QBBA for this great honor. We are so proud to have our work recognized for the impact that can be made through reinvesting in our New York City neighborhoods." — John Woelfling
Dattner Architects had the recent honor of receiving two significant awards at the Queens & Bronx Building Association (QBBA) Gala. Located in the East New York neighborhood of Brooklyn, our design for 50 Penn was recognized with a QBBA Building Award for its elegant design on a complicated site. The transit-oriented, mixed-use development sits adjacent to the elevated J/Z Subway and the below-grade A/C Subway. As a former industrial site, it was remediated through the Brownfield Cleanup Program. 50 Penn includes 218 apartments, 42 of which are dedicated to formerly homeless and elderly households. Commercial and retail spaces activate the ground floor, including a health-food grocery store developed through New York City's FRESH program which promotes nutritious, affordable, and fresh food in underserved neighborhoods. We were also honored with the first-ever QBBA Bronx Borough President's Award for 425 Grand Concourse. Borough President Gibson's Deputy BP, Janet Peguero, complimented the building design in her remarks as a gateway to the Bronx and an appropriate replacement for the former PS 31 school that previously occupied the site. 425 Grand Concourse is a model for dense urban development with 277 all-affordable apartments, a mixed-use podium that includes a CUNY Hostos student center, community medical center, and grocery store. At 26 stories and over 300,000 square feet, 425 Grand Concourse is the largest certified PHIUS Passive House project to date. "Thank you to QBBA for this great honor. We are so proud to have our work recognized for the impact that can be made through reinvesting in our New York City neighborhoods." — John Woelfling
Dattner Architects Nyc Vital Brookdale Thumbnail Dusk
11.30.22

Vital Brookdale Ribbon Cutting

Dattner Architects joined MDG Design & Construction, Smith & Henzy Advisory Group, The New York Foundling, City and State officials, and local community partners for the ribbon cutting ceremony at Vital Brookdale, a new mixed-use Passive House development in Brooklyn. "Vital Brookdale is a superb example of affordable, multifamily passive house housing in NYC. The unique site created some challenges, but the design and construction teams worked together to create a beautiful project. This building integrates well into the community and furthers many of the State's goals in the Vital Brooklyn initiative. We are honored to be part of this team and excited to celebrate this milestone." — Shefali Sanghvi, Director of Sustainability Vital Brookdale is the first building to be completed under New York State’s Vital Brooklyn Initiative—an ongoing community development program for underserved neighborhoods in Central Brooklyn. An exemplary model of affordable Passive House and community-based housing with healthcare, Vital Brookdale brings 160 units of affordable housing and 25,000 square feet of health-focused community space to the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn. Alongside deeply affordable apartments, Vital Brookdale provides resources that promote health and wellness, job training, outdoor green space, and opportunities for recreation, supporting residents and the surrounding community. Tenants have access to a second floor terrace, and front and rear-courtyards, which includes landscaping, a dog run, play area as well as passive recreation and seating areas. Additional amenities include complimentary building-wide wireless-internet access, a multi-purpose community room, game room, library/co-working space, fitness room, laundry room, cold-storage locker and package rooms, and a bike storage room. This Passive House project has a 100kW roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system, green roof, high-performance mechanical systems, insulation and windows, LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, and several other energy-efficient measures to ensure the comfort and affordability for residents as well as sustainability of the building.
Dattner Architects joined MDG Design & Construction, Smith & Henzy Advisory Group, The New York Foundling, City and State officials, and local community partners for the ribbon cutting ceremony at Vital Brookdale, a new mixed-use Passive House development in Brooklyn. "Vital Brookdale is a superb example of affordable, multifamily passive house housing in NYC. The unique site created some challenges, but the design and construction teams worked together to create a beautiful project. This building integrates well into the community and furthers many of the State's goals in the Vital Brooklyn initiative. We are honored to be part of this team and excited to celebrate this milestone." — Shefali Sanghvi, Director of Sustainability Vital Brookdale is the first building to be completed under New York State’s Vital Brooklyn Initiative—an ongoing community development program for underserved neighborhoods in Central Brooklyn. An exemplary model of affordable Passive House and community-based housing with healthcare, Vital Brookdale brings 160 units of affordable housing and 25,000 square feet of health-focused community space to the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn. Alongside deeply affordable apartments, Vital Brookdale provides resources that promote health and wellness, job training, outdoor green space, and opportunities for recreation, supporting residents and the surrounding community. Tenants have access to a second floor terrace, and front and rear-courtyards, which includes landscaping, a dog run, play area as well as passive recreation and seating areas. Additional amenities include complimentary building-wide wireless-internet access, a multi-purpose community room, game room, library/co-working space, fitness room, laundry room, cold-storage locker and package rooms, and a bike storage room. This Passive House project has a 100kW roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system, green roof, high-performance mechanical systems, insulation and windows, LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, and several other energy-efficient measures to ensure the comfort and affordability for residents as well as sustainability of the building.
PWC 20 Under 40
11.28.22

PWC 20 Under 40: Heather McKinstry

Dattner Architects' Associate Heather McKinstry has been named one of Professional Women in Construction (PWC)'s 20 under 40. The recipients represent a diverse group of 20 individuals excelling in their respective careers. "I’m honored to have been selected as one of PWC’s 20 under 40 Women in Construction.  The tireless work of organization like PWC have changed the culture of the construction industry, and I’m proud to be able to contribute to the work of building our cities."— Heather McKinstry Heather believes that architecture's most important role is to create inclusive, healthy, and sustainable buildings for communities, while minimizing their impact on the natural environment. As a leader in the firm's Sustainable Practice Group, she chairs the committee on building energy usage. Heather was most recently the Project Manager for 425 Grand Concourse, the largest Passive House (PHIUS) certified building in North America. The 2022 20 Under 40 Class will be honored and celebrated at a ceremony during PWC's holiday party on December 8.
Dattner Architects' Associate Heather McKinstry has been named one of Professional Women in Construction (PWC)'s 20 under 40. The recipients represent a diverse group of 20 individuals excelling in their respective careers. "I’m honored to have been selected as one of PWC’s 20 under 40 Women in Construction.  The tireless work of organization like PWC have changed the culture of the construction industry, and I’m proud to be able to contribute to the work of building our cities."— Heather McKinstry Heather believes that architecture's most important role is to create inclusive, healthy, and sustainable buildings for communities, while minimizing their impact on the natural environment. As a leader in the firm's Sustainable Practice Group, she chairs the committee on building energy usage. Heather was most recently the Project Manager for 425 Grand Concourse, the largest Passive House (PHIUS) certified building in North America. The 2022 20 Under 40 Class will be honored and celebrated at a ceremony during PWC's holiday party on December 8.
DA WEB PhiusConAwards Feat
11.21.22

PHIUS Design Awards

Dattner Architects is proud to share that 425 Grand Concourse and Santaella Gardens were big winners at this year's PhiusCon in Chicago. 425 Grand Concourse took home the award for Best Overall Project as well as Best High-Rise Multifamily, while Santaella Gardens won the Best Project by a Young Professional. 425 Grand Concourse is the largest Passive House (PHIUS) certified project in North America. The 26-story building implements high efficiency building systems with an air-tight building envelope, energy recovery ventilation, and sustainable features to significantly reduce heat loss and gain. The development will consume up to 70% less energy than a conventional housing project. Santaella Garden's super-insulated, virtually air-tight building envelope includes thermally broken, high-performance windows and advanced air sealing details to eliminate condensation and air exfiltration. The high-performance envelope offers residents enhanced thermal comfort while lowering heating and cooling costs. The 8th Annual Passive Projects Design Competition recognized fully certified passive building projects of all types and in all climate zones. Competition categories included: Best Overall Project; Best Single Family; Best High-Rise Multifamily; Best Low-Rise Multifamily; Best Commercial / Institutional; Best Retrofit; Best Source Zero; and Best Project by a Young Professional.    
Dattner Architects is proud to share that 425 Grand Concourse and Santaella Gardens were big winners at this year's PhiusCon in Chicago. 425 Grand Concourse took home the award for Best Overall Project as well as Best High-Rise Multifamily, while Santaella Gardens won the Best Project by a Young Professional. 425 Grand Concourse is the largest Passive House (PHIUS) certified project in North America. The 26-story building implements high efficiency building systems with an air-tight building envelope, energy recovery ventilation, and sustainable features to significantly reduce heat loss and gain. The development will consume up to 70% less energy than a conventional housing project. Santaella Garden's super-insulated, virtually air-tight building envelope includes thermally broken, high-performance windows and advanced air sealing details to eliminate condensation and air exfiltration. The high-performance envelope offers residents enhanced thermal comfort while lowering heating and cooling costs. The 8th Annual Passive Projects Design Competition recognized fully certified passive building projects of all types and in all climate zones. Competition categories included: Best Overall Project; Best Single Family; Best High-Rise Multifamily; Best Low-Rise Multifamily; Best Commercial / Institutional; Best Retrofit; Best Source Zero; and Best Project by a Young Professional.    
BXHSS DAWEB FEAT
11.15.22

Stanley Manne Research Institute Ribbon Cutting

Dattner Architects is proud to celebrate the grand opening of the Stanley Manne Research Institute! Located at the Bronx High School of Science, the Manne Institute is a new state-of-the-art research building named after, and generously funded by, Bronx Science alumnus Stanley Manne. The donation from Mr. Manne represents the largest individual gift to The Bronx High School of Science Alumni Foundation ever, and the largest gift to a New York City public school in history. This university-level facility will allow high school students from across the Bronx to conduct long-term experiments, preparing them for college or professional settings. The building houses three multidisciplinary labs, a walk-in cold room, tissue culture room, microscopy room, sterilization room, animal room, and a multi-purpose room for special events. Like a professional lab, spaces are modular and flexible, as equipment and science requirements change over time. Each lab is served by a computational room for group meetings, lectures, and experiment data review. “The Manne Institute is a transformative project for Bronx Science and our biggest undertaking ever as a Foundation. We needed an architecture firm who could go beyond design. We needed a firm with true expertise, tremendous respect in the industry and the capabilities to help advise through all steps of the project. As we did our research, it became apparent that Daniel Heuberger and his team at Dattner checked all of those boxes and more. We simply could have never done this project without Dattner Architects and their talents.” — Eleanor Coufus, VP - Alumni Foundation, Bronx High School of Science Offering summer study programs and faculty mentorship opportunities, the Manne Institute will also enable promising students from Bronx Science and other area public high schools additional advanced research opportunities in Microbiology, Animal Behavior, and Genetics. “This is more than a unique research facility, but a wonderful Bronx story as well. A graduate of the school, Stanley Manne, has given another generation of ambitious and bright students an opportunity to embark on a lifetime of scientific inquiry.” — Daniel Heuberger, Principal, Dattner Architects Although its footprint is modest in size, this research center is a highly visible place-making addition to the school campus. Along with the much larger main building, it completes the outdoor courtyard where students gather between classes. The lab is visible from all sides, and subtle offsets in the massing and screening of the roof top mechanical plant give each façade a unique visual proportion and contextual relationship. The building is conceived as a precise, finely detailed scientific object. The façade is composed of tightly spaced, fiber-reinforced concrete panels, punctuated by modular openings that respond to the compact and rational laboratory plans. The three-dimensional panels cast changing and dynamic shadows on the façade over the course of the day. Bright green brick accents representing the school color mark the entrances and line the main stair and lobby. “The Stanley Manne Research Institute provides a unique opportunity for talented NYC public high school students to be trained in a university-level laboratory. Who knows what important breakthroughs in biology or medicine will be made by these future scientists?” — Brian Nesin, Senior Associate, Dattner Architects
Dattner Architects is proud to celebrate the grand opening of the Stanley Manne Research Institute! Located at the Bronx High School of Science, the Manne Institute is a new state-of-the-art research building named after, and generously funded by, Bronx Science alumnus Stanley Manne. The donation from Mr. Manne represents the largest individual gift to The Bronx High School of Science Alumni Foundation ever, and the largest gift to a New York City public school in history. This university-level facility will allow high school students from across the Bronx to conduct long-term experiments, preparing them for college or professional settings. The building houses three multidisciplinary labs, a walk-in cold room, tissue culture room, microscopy room, sterilization room, animal room, and a multi-purpose room for special events. Like a professional lab, spaces are modular and flexible, as equipment and science requirements change over time. Each lab is served by a computational room for group meetings, lectures, and experiment data review. “The Manne Institute is a transformative project for Bronx Science and our biggest undertaking ever as a Foundation. We needed an architecture firm who could go beyond design. We needed a firm with true expertise, tremendous respect in the industry and the capabilities to help advise through all steps of the project. As we did our research, it became apparent that Daniel Heuberger and his team at Dattner checked all of those boxes and more. We simply could have never done this project without Dattner Architects and their talents.” — Eleanor Coufus, VP - Alumni Foundation, Bronx High School of Science Offering summer study programs and faculty mentorship opportunities, the Manne Institute will also enable promising students from Bronx Science and other area public high schools additional advanced research opportunities in Microbiology, Animal Behavior, and Genetics. “This is more than a unique research facility, but a wonderful Bronx story as well. A graduate of the school, Stanley Manne, has given another generation of ambitious and bright students an opportunity to embark on a lifetime of scientific inquiry.” — Daniel Heuberger, Principal, Dattner Architects Although its footprint is modest in size, this research center is a highly visible place-making addition to the school campus. Along with the much larger main building, it completes the outdoor courtyard where students gather between classes. The lab is visible from all sides, and subtle offsets in the massing and screening of the roof top mechanical plant give each façade a unique visual proportion and contextual relationship. The building is conceived as a precise, finely detailed scientific object. The façade is composed of tightly spaced, fiber-reinforced concrete panels, punctuated by modular openings that respond to the compact and rational laboratory plans. The three-dimensional panels cast changing and dynamic shadows on the façade over the course of the day. Bright green brick accents representing the school color mark the entrances and line the main stair and lobby. “The Stanley Manne Research Institute provides a unique opportunity for talented NYC public high school students to be trained in a university-level laboratory. Who knows what important breakthroughs in biology or medicine will be made by these future scientists?” — Brian Nesin, Senior Associate, Dattner Architects
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Woelfling John H New NEWS
03.07.24

John Woelfling elevated to the AIA College of Fellows

In recognition of outstanding accomplishments and architectural excellence, annually the American Institute of Architects (AIA) appoints distinguished members to join the College of Fellows. Only 3% of AIA members attained this distinction. Dattner Architects is delighted to announce that Principal John Woelfling FAIA has been chosen to join this year's cohort of AIA Fellows! Out of 96 candidates who were elevated by AIA National, John is one of the 10 members from the AIA New York chapter. John was recognized for his remarkable contributions to the advancement of the architectural profession through his commitment to innovative sustainable design and his continued advocacy for affordable housing. John’s leadership in large-scale affordable housing has become a national model for addressing the housing crisis through sustainable, community-responsive design. With a commitment to sustainable practices, he has overseen the development of over twenty 100% affordable buildings, comprising more than 3,300 apartments. Notably, he has pioneered the integration of Passive House principles into multi-family affordable housing design, resulting in four of the largest Passive House mixed-use buildings in the United States, totaling 961 affordable apartments, with hundreds more now in design. These projects exemplify his dedication to environmental justice, resident health, and affordability. Moreover, each of these buildings marked the respective clients' first Passive House project, showcasing John’s innovative approach to sustainable architecture. “The honor of having arrived at the professional milestone of joining the College of Fellows has clarified for me that a significant part of attaining this honor has been the journey. The self-reflecting process of preparing my application to the AIA N   required that I assess the arc of my career and my impact on the profession.  Some of it rewarding, some of it less so, but always an investment in something that was more than just a “job”. The worsening climate crisis and our City’s, State’s and Country’s affordable housing crisis call for architects to be civically engaged to guide public policy as well as designing environmentally responsible buildings.  My application for Fellowship intertwined three themes that embody the Dattner Architects ethos and summarize my work: Affordable Housing, Leadership through Advocacy, and Innovative Sustainable Design. Architecture is an incredibly rewarding profession that requires patience and collaboration.  The body of work that led to my elevation to the AIA College of Fellows resulted from both my personal and my colleagues’ dedication to civic and essential architecture.” – John Woelfling, FAIA John has presented his experience successfully applying passive house principles to mid- and high-rise multifamily developments to a variety of audiences across North America including different organizations, professionals, students, and communities. He has led discussions at different events including the AIA National Conference, USGBC’s Greenbuild Conference, and was the keynote speaker at the PHIUS National Conference in Chicago. He was also named as one of Crain’s Notable Leaders in Sustainability last year. As a board member of the NYS Association for Affordable Housing and of his local community board in Brooklyn, NY, John advocates for community based affordable housing and sustainable design approaches. His “open source” approach to knowledge sharing serves as an inclusive approach to environmental design and sets a national model for integrating affordable housing with sustainable design. Under John’s leadership, the firm’s affordable housing work integrates sustainable design standards to achieve buildings with superior indoor air quality and energy performance that address environmental inequities and result in positive impacts on communities.
In March 2024 project features, Metropolis Magazine highlighted Chestnut Commons as a case study in successful passive house design for an affordable, mixed-use development. Chestnut Commons is one of Dattner Architects’ recently completed projects that not only follows passive house principles but also provides housing to the formerly homeless and low-income individuals. In addition to the housing, the project integrates a Community Center in the base of the building, which includes a satellite campus for CUNY Kingsborough Community College, a food manufacturing incubator that provides job training, a social services center run by the Cypress Hills Local Development Corp, and a Brooklyn Federal Credit Union branch. Sustainability and affordability are issues often dealt with separately—while  in case of Chestnut Commons, the intent was to build a project that not only houses people in need but also works toward creating true affordability for the residents. Viewed through a broadened lens of environmental equity and recognizing that utility bills are one of the largest burdens on a household’s income, the Passive House design strategy significantly lowers the cooling and heating loads on the building – providing a direct synthesis of affordability and sustainability. To read the full article: https://metropolismag.com/projects/this-brooklyn-multifamily-community-is-sustainable-and-affordable/
Dattner Architects is a women-owned design firm. This is a milestone for our practice, which was founded 60 years ago. Our long-standing commitment to equity and inclusion has organically fostered women to thrive and achieve at the highest level of leadership. Today the firm is led by 10 partners, half of whom are women; and the women are the majority owners. We are a firm that continues to evolve and advance. Our core mission is unwavering, and it unites our work and our practice. We proudly take on the planning and design of the region’s most essential projects, creating architecture that enriches the urban experience, transforms environments, and strengthens communities. Today Dattner Architects is over 100 people, 59% of whom are women, 41% BIPOC, and 17% LGBTQ+ all working together from one office in New York City. A steadfast dedication to our mission, a strong and varied portfolio of that spans sectors, and a thoughtful leadership transition plan allows our 60-year-old practice to continue to remain vital and vibrant—reflecting the diversity and relevancy of our practice. "Driven to work at the urban scale, I initially sought out Dattner Architects because the firm had designed many of the civic spaces that were formative in my life," notes Gia Maneiro, Principal and Corporate President.  "This passion fueled my career here—from junior designer to Principal—supported by the confidence, camaraderie and mentorship that defines the culture of the office.  Raising my daughter solidified my commitment to leadership in the future of sustainable public architecture, and I could not be more proud to share in a majority women owned partnership that embodies these values." Dattner Architects is certified as a WBE with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.
Dattner Architects’ Director of Sustainability, Shefali Sanghvi and Associate, Heather McKinstry will be speaking at the Passive House Accelerator’s Reimagine Buildings’ 24 (RB’24) held on March 7 and March 8. A new vision for what a global conference can be, PHA’s, RB’24 is a virtual experience tailored to provide essential knowledge, connections, and inspiration to create impactful buildings that are resilient and equitable. For 24 hours speakers and audience members will discuss new, innovative buildings, exploring topics like deep energy efficiency, low-embodied carbon and more. Heather will join a panel of experts on the main stage to discuss the climate crisis and the affordability crisis. She will highlight Dattner Architects’ 425 Grand Concourse project as an example of how affordable housing projects benefit from Passive House solutions. Friday March 8th, 2024: 8am – 8:50am Hour 21: Haven For All: Climate Resilient Affordable Housing Shefali will be speaking at the closing panel during the conclusion of the event, presenting a global view on resiliency of buildings, sites, and the future of sustainable, equitable development. Friday March 8th, 2024: 11am – 12pm Hour 24: Closing the Circle: Equity, Resiliency, and Future Horizons Learn from people from around the world are adopting better building techniques that not only embrace Passive House standards but also plant-based materials, and localized approaches to decarbonization and resiliency. More and register here: https://www.accelevents.com/e/passive-house-accelerator?aff=AIANYS
Stanley Manne Research Institute
12.12.23

Bronx High School of Science has been awarded AN’s Best of Design 2023, Editor’s Pick

Bronx High School of Science, Stanley Manne Research Institute has been awarded an Editor’s Pick in the Education - Kindergarten, Primary & High School category for The Architect’s Newspapers Best of Design 2023! Located at the Bronx High School of Science, one of New York City’s top public schools, the Stanley Manne Research Institute is a new state-of-the-art research building, gifted to the campus by Bronx Science ’58 alum Stanley Manne. This university-level facility allows high school students from across the Bronx to conduct long-term experiments and prepare for college or professional settings. The building houses three multidisciplinary labs, a walk-in cold room, tissue culture room, microscopy room, sterilization room, animal room, and a multi-purpose room for special events. Like a professional lab, spaces are modular and flexible, as equipment and science requirements change over time. The façade is composed of tightly spaced, fiber-reinforced concrete panels, punctuated by modular openings that relate to the compact and rational laboratory plans. The three-dimensional panels cast changing and dynamic shadows on the façade over the course of the day. Bright green brick accents representing the school color mark the entrances and carry inside to the main stair and lobby. These design elements serve both an aesthetic and performance function, as the tight building envelope and careful design of the exterior allowed for reduction in heating and cooling loads, which made the all-electric systems feasible for the project.  Based on the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories benchmarking, the project’s Energy Use Intensity is expected to be 70% of typical laboratory buildings.
Featured in the January/February 2024 issue, The Architect’s Newspaper included the latest updates on Dattner Architects’ Alafia Master Plan and highlights from a discussion with Daniel Heuberger, the Principal in Charge of the plan, and subsequent phase 1 design...Situated on a 27-acre site at the northern edge of Jamaica Bay in Brooklyn, Alafia is an ambitious master plan that will transform a decommissioned state psychiatric hospital into a wellness-oriented resilient community designed to address the chronic social, economic, and health disparities in a historically underserved area. The project is based on notable planning principles. Integrating a mix of scales to foster a sense of place, identification, and belonging. The personal scale includes small scale spaces, individualized buildings, lobbies, and finishes. The communal scale includes buildings centered around shared amenities and garden spaces. The neighborhood scale creates a publicly accessible interior campus, crossed by city streets, welcoming pedestrians and vehicles. Currently in the first phase of construction, the mixed-use, mid-rise Building C1/C2 will provide 452 units of affordable housing including units for the formerly homeless and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it will include exterior and interior amenity spaces, a social services suite, a health clinic, and retail spaces. Building C3 will provide 124 units and will include exterior and interior amenity spaces. The buildings are designed to be Passive House certified. We have started construction of the Maintenance Hub, which will serve as a flexible operational facility, ensuring compliance with both current and future waste regulations. The centralized trash and recycling collection facility will allow waste, biowaste, and recyclable waste streams from throughout the development to be centralized.   As one of the largest projects to result from the New York State Vital Brooklyn Initiative, Dattner Architects designed the master plan in collaboration with landscape architect SCAPE. “The buildings share a number of common characteristics: a communal identity built around a shared, defensible, and safe outdoor space; a lively, activated ground plane with residential, commercial, and community facility activities on all sides of the structure; a sense of place created by a mix of scales and unique massing to each building; and a healthy, comfortable environment based on sustainable, Passive House principles.”- Daniel Heuberger, Principal at Dattner Articles. Read full article here: Alafia by Dattner and SCAPE is underway in East New York (archpaper.com)
With a diverse portfolio spanning six decades, Dattner Architects has played a pivotal role in reshaping urban landscapes, creating spaces that not only provide shelter but also foster a sense of community and dignity for those in need. Grounded in principles of inclusivity and sustainability, our work reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of homelessness and the importance of providing holistic support systems. We are designing two shelter and supportive housing projects that will not only provide for those in need for housing but also clinic services for the community at large. 59th Street Shelter 59th Street Shelter is a new 200-bed women's shelter on West 59th Street in Manhattan under construction that, in addition to providing much needed emergency housing for the unhoused, will also include a public-facing Article 28 outpatient medical clinic. This project will be operated by Project Renewal and as a joint development venture with the Hudson Companies, two NYC based organizations with a long history of providing local affordable and supportive housing. The new building unlocks the available floor area on the site to provide a 51,000 square foot, 9-story building designed to achieve LEED Gold. The building features green roofs and a street-facing landscaped terrace for residents to engage in gardening and passive recreation. This terrace was born from the project's unique site context which informed the building massing, diagrammatically allowing the adjacent public park to fold over and onto the setback roof. Understanding the importance of the first impressions of a building by an arriving shelter resident, the façades were composed with a multi-family residential association in their materiality, scale, and detailing. The building’s superstructure was leveraged to create large windows in the primary façade that provide an abundance of natural daylight into the shelter dormitories. New Providence Redevelopment New Providence is the redevelopment of a 6-story women’s shelter on East 45th Steet in Manhattan that Project Renewal operated for several decades. The building did not meet the programmatic needs and the site was significantly under-built. In a joint venture between Project Renewal and Monadnock Development, Dattner Architects was retained to design a new building to redevelop the site with a purpose-built women’s shelter and supportive housing. The new 130,000 square foot, 21-story building will include a 171-bed women's shelter and will provide 130 supportive and affordable housing units. The shelter will function as transitional housing for shelter clients and the supportive and affordable units will be permanent housing for residents. The shelter is located at the base of the building and includes exterior amenity space, recreation areas, a full kitchen for food service and cooking/hospitality training, and extensive therapeutic and social service support facilities. The supportive housing component includes its own exterior amenity space and a large social services suite. A public-facing Article 28 health clinic operated by Project Renewal on the ground floor will serve both the residents of the building and the surrounding neighborhood.
Principal Paul Bauer and Director of Sustainability, Senior Associate, Shefali Sanghvi joined industry leaders and peers at this year’s New York Build Expo on February 14th at the Javits Center. Panel: From Waste to Wealth: Circular Construction for a Sustainable Future Date & Time: February 14, 2024, at 12:00pm Speakers: Shefali Sanghvi (Dattner Architects); Nicole Spina (NYCEDC); Amanda Kaminsky (Americas - Lendlease); Kritika Kharbanda (Henning Larsen); Kat West (Turner & Townsend); Sheida Shahi (Adaptis); Jonathan Munkley (WSP, Zero Construct) Panel: Designing a Safer City for All Date & Time: February 14, 2024, at 11:00pm Speakers: Paul Bauer (Dattner Architects); Adam Paul Susaneck (AECOM Metro New York); Roberto Vila (Stantec); Sofia Berger (WSP); Aaron Mendelsohn (New York City Council)   The New York Build Expo is the largest construction and design show for New York and the Tri-State area. The show features 500+ top industry speakers across 15 different tracks and AIA CES approved workshops, 400+ exhibitors, exclusive free-to-attend networking events including the Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction, an Architect’s Hub, and much more.  
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10.24.23

Vital Brookdale wins ULI NY Award for Excellence in Affordable Housing Development

Dattner Architects’ Vital Brookdale won the ULI Award for Excellence in Affordable Housing last Thursday night at the Awards Gala.  The Urban Land Institute’s New York Awards for Excellence in Development are a highly competitive program that recognizes best in class projects that excel in design, sustainability, and impact. Vital Brookdale, developed through a public-private partnership sponsored by New York State, was applauded for demonstrating “how targeted interventions through supportive housing can change life trajectories.” The Passive House project includes deeply affordable apartments with a host of amenities, job training and empowerment facilities, and a new healthcare center. Director of Sustainability and Project Manager, Shefali Sanghvi (right) receiving the award with Catherine Levenson from MDG construction An exceptional model of affordable, sustainable, community-based housing, Vital Brookdale combines a f health-focused community resources and affordable apartments for the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn. The low-carbon development is Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) certified, an international standard of building for maximized energy efficiency. The project includes a 100kW roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system, a series of green roofs and plantings, and other energy efficient measures to ensure the comfort and affordability for residents as well as sustainability of the building. Videos of Vital Brookdale and the other 2023 Award winners are available on the ULI New York website: 2023 ULI New York Gala Winners | ULI New York Gala
Dattner Architects’ Associate Principal Rachel Ehrlich AIA, LEED AP BD+C talks with Urban Omnibus (The Architectural League of New York) about designing projects that address the intersectional crises of affordable housing and climate change, the role of architects when creating housing within tight sites and underserved communities, and the value of collaboration. In the interview with Mariana Mogilevich, editor-in-chief of Urban Omnibus, Rachel highlights design solutions and challenges faced during design and construction of the recently completed affordable housing project Santaella Gardens, and supporting housing project St. James Terrace. The way that we create housing in New York City is its own ecosystem and industry. The architecture is a tiny piece of it. We think of the building as being the most important part, but the people that put together the financing think of money as the most important part. And then the people who are providing social services to the people in these homes are like: “Obviously, caring for these people is the most important part. If we don’t figure that out, what are we doing here?” Rachel is a leader in the design of affordable housing, and she has a distinct focus on supportive and senior living spaces. A climate activist, her dedication centers around enriching communities, creating vibrant, livable neighborhoods that serve as the foundation for social equity. Through her expertise, she strives to provide well-designed, sustainable homes for individuals across all income levels. For the last four years, Rachel has represented Madison, New Jersey as a council member where she supports the town’s concerns regarding infrastructure, capital projects, and climate action. “We recently adopted climate goals in our town of 17,000 people and are working towards cutting carbon pollution and increasing resiliency to mitigate the effects of climate change that are already here.” Read more: https://urbanomnibus.net/2024/01/building-out-of-a-tight-spot/  
Dattner Architects will host The Architectural League's First Friday on March 1st, 2024. As part of The Architectural League’s well-regarded First Friday Series, we are opening up our office to members on March 1, 2024. Join us for an evening of drinks, conversation, and a look into our ongoing and award-winning projects, culture, and space. The League’s First Friday events are informal social gatherings that allow members to visit the offices of leading design practices and see work on the boards. We will be highlighting projects from our archives as well as exhibiting new projects, our Passive House affordable housing, and a group of adaptive re-use projects. We also hope to provide insight into our professional development programs and ERGs. Registration opens soon, directly through the Architectural League: First Friday: Dattner Architects - The Architectural League of New York (archleague.org)
Dattner Architects proudly announces the promotion of four new Senior Associates and three Associates. These promotions reflect these employees’ dedication to our firm, commitment to our civic architecture mission, and professional rigor. Aaron Campbell, Lola Rodriguez, Pascale Baladi have been elevated to Associate. Our new Senior Associates are Adam Siegel, Jon King, Patrick McAffrey, and Wei Wang. “The dedication and achievements of these seven professionals is celebrated through these promotions. They each bring a welcome and distinctive perspective to our practice, and we are excited about their continued impact on our firm and our projects.” - Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Aaron Campbell, RA, CPHC, Associate has worked in architecture, exhibitions, fabrication, real estate development, and general contracting. These experiences shaped his understanding of how architectural knowledge operates within a larger industry context. His focus is on the design of accessible public facilities, and he is currently a team member for the design of the Hoboken Maritime Park. Lola Rodriguez, RA, LEED AP, Associate has focused her career on projects that serve the public. She balances her broad international perspective from her training and practice as a licensed architect in Peru with her local work experience, to guide each project from conception to completion. Lola is an essential part of the team designing and building JFK’s Central Terminal Roadways and Ground Transportation Center Pascale Baladi, AIA, Associate is fascinated with the different ways in which cultures shape the inner workings of modern urban environments, and how they influence the way humans’ paths cross, intertwine, mingle, and engage with each other. This fascination has led her to pursue design of urban multi-family residential buildings, where she hopes to contribute to the provision of safe, equitable, and affordable homes for each diverse community. Pascale was nominated for 2023 METROPOLIS’ inaugural Arch30 Event which recognizes the next generation of leadership in architecture.  She is a member of the firm’s EDI Task Force. Inspired by the city of New York, Adam Siegel, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, Assoc. DBIA, ENV SP, PMP, Senior Associate believes in architecture’s ability to create a sustainable future through design excellence. Concentrating on the design of urban transportation and infrastructure projects, he is committed to an engaged, collaborative process that fulfills the team’s design aspirations as well as meets the needs of stakeholders. Adam’s skill as a project manager carries through to the construction site. Jon King AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Associate has the ability to integrate and manage functionality and design goals results in built projects with enduring and sustainable value. He applies a deep understanding of high-performance building practices to his projects informed in part through continual research and collaboration with industry experts on subjects including thermal envelope assemblies and building systems. Formally trained in both architecture and product design, Patrick McAffrey AIA, Senior Associate ’s passion for intelligent urbanism has led him to focus his work on infrastructure and transportation projects, which he believes have profound impact on the building fabric and urban lifestyles they support. Patrick is the project manager for Department of Sanitation’s (DSNY) District 3 Garage under construction in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn and the Studio Director for our Transportation/Infrastructure Studio Wei Wang AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Senior Associate believes the architect’s role goes beyond design and function; it also uplifts communities and fosters social equity. She has experience managing projects, from mixed-use high-rise residential developments to commercial buildings. Passionate about building materials and research, Wei co-chairs the firm’s Sustainable Practice Group and AIA Committee on the Environment.  She was called upon to represent the next generation of architects as the Young Architects Representative for AIA New York State.
Congratulations to William (Bill) Stein FAIA as he steps into the role of Principal Emeritus. Bill has been a vital leader of Dattner Architects for over forty-five years. His career exemplifies architecture in service to society, committed to design excellence and civic engagement. Bill studied with Richard Dattner at the City College School of Architecture (now the Bernard and Anne Spitzer School of Architecture) and joined Richard’s practice in 1977. He became an associate in 1980 and a principal in 1999. At Dattner Architects he has fostered a collaborative, inclusive culture, shaping buildings that serve social needs and improve neighborhoods. He has directed notable civic and housing projects throughout New York City and guided the growth of the firm’s affordable housing practice. From Public School 234 in the heart of Tribeca, to the landmark West 72nd Street Subway Station, to The New York Public Library’s Bronx Library Center, to Via Verde, the award-winning, sustainable affordable housing development, Bill’s work has had a lasting impact on the public realm and the lives of New Yorkers. Bill is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects. He served as a Vice-President of AIA NY and President of the Center for Architecture Foundation. He chaired a code review committee for the NYC Model Code Adoption and is a board member of the Citizens Housing & Planning Council. In 2021 he received the Henry Hobson Richardson Award from the AIA NYS, recognizing architects who have made a significant contribution to the quality of public architecture in New York State.
We are thrilled to share that Dattner Architects’ project Bronx High School of Science; Stanley Manne Institute was recognized as ENR (Engineering News- Record) 2023 New York Best Project k-12 Education Project. Located at the Bronx High School of Science, the Stanley Manne Research Institute is a new state-of-the-art research building named after, and generously funded by, Bronx Science alumnus Stanley Manne. This university-level facility will allow high school students from across the Bronx to conduct long-term experiments, preparing them for college or professional settings. The building houses three multidisciplinary labs, a walk-in cold room, tissue culture room, microscopy room, sterilization room, animal room, and a multi-purpose room for special events. Like a professional lab, spaces are modular and flexible, as equipment and science requirements change over time. Each lab is served by a computational room for group meetings, lectures, and experiment data review. For more information about this category award and full list of winners: Best Project K-12 Education: Bronx High School of Science - Stanley Manne ’52 Institute of Science | Engineering News-Record (enr.com)          
We are thrilled to share that Dattner Architects’ projects Vital Brookdale and Chestnut Commons projects each won multiple PHIUS Design Competition awards at the PhiusCon 2023, held earlier this week. Vital Brookdale, an exemplary model of community-based housing plus healthcare, won Best Overall Project and was named the Winner in the Low-Rise Multifamily category.    Vital Brookdale is the first project in New York State’s Vital Brooklyn Initiative, a program designed to improve Central Brooklyn’s low-income residents’ access to health, wellness, and housing. The design and programming of the building sets a new benchmark for high-quality, sustainable, health-focused, affordable housing mixed-use developments. The low-carbon development is Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) + 2015 certified, an international standard of building for maximized energy efficiency. Chestnut Commons was announced as a winner for High-Rise Multifamily Category. One of the first developments stemming from the East New York Neighborhood Plan, Chestnut Commons provides affordable housing for formerly homeless and low-income households. 275 affordable housing apartments are supported by an integrated programming package, including communal spaces on the second floor with direct access to a landscaped roof terrace. Community-centric in both design and development, the project integrates a community center operated by Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation, a satellite Community College campus, a food manufacturing incubator that provides job training, and a credit union.  
Chestnut Commons won two awards at the SARA National Design Awards this weekend! The project is the winner of both the Design Excellence Award and the Multi-Family Residential: Affordable Housing, Low Income Housing, Market Rate Housing. Chestnut Commons is an innovative, sustainable, mixed-use development that provides critically needed affordable housing to over 600 formerly homeless and low-income households. Community-centric in both design and development, the project integrates a satellite Community College campus, workforce training, and a credit union – all within a Passive House building. Developed and operated by locally based organizations with strong community ties, the project strengthens the neighborhood with the inclusion of economic development and educational opportunities, arts programming, and job training services. Chestnut Commons exemplifies an innovative affordable housing model for sustainable development. The project provides not only urgently needed affordable housing, but a deep commitment to environmental equity and community building. The Society of American Registered Architects (SARA) National Design Awards celebrates excellence in architecture & design.
AIA New York State, New Jersey and Pennsylvania will present a three-part online series on equity and affordability in housing on November 10, November 17, and December 1, 2023. The panel From the Architect’s View: The Challenges and Opportunities Implementing Sustainability in Housing, will feature Shefali Sanghvi, Director of Sustainability, Dattner Architects. It is being held on Friday, November 17, 10:30am-12:00pm EST. The panel will examine challenges and opportunities around implementing sustainability in affordable housing covering topics such as how design sustainability should be defined, how we ensure that we, as designers, do not lose aspect of the human scale of our work, and how we are looking forward in our work. At Dattner Architects, we are dedicated to achieving high levels of urban sustainability and density – pioneering green civic and residential design and helping communities affected by climate change. Our Sustainable Practice Group (SPG) facilitates a positive environmental impact and improves occupant health, equity, and the resilience of Dattner projects through research on energy use, renewable energy, indoor environment and human health, sustainable materials, site ecology, and urban infrastructure. Join us for insightful discussions on the housing sector in the tri-state region. You can register for entire series or individual programs here: About - Tri-State Equity and Affordability in Housing Webinar Series (cvent.com)      
Chestnut Commons is the 2023 Multi-family/Mixed Use winner of the Metropolis Planet Positive Award!  This awards program recognizes design for a regenerative and equitable future. Judged by four expert juries across project types, regions, and product categories, award winners represent “the highest achievements in design that addresses climate change, ecosystem health, human health, and equity.” Chestnut Commons is an innovative and community-centric Passive House development that provides 275 critically needed affordable apartments to formerly homeless and low-income households in the Cypress Hill section of Brooklyn. This project is part of the East New York Neighborhood Plan and delivers on the commitment to provide meaningful affordable housing that allows residents to stay within their community. A model for sustainable development through its community-centric approach, and in its Passive House systems and detailing, Chestnut Commons exemplifies an innovative affordable housing model. Projects such as Chestnut Commons provide not only urgently needed affordable housing for those that need it most, but a deep commitment to environmental equity by utilizing a building type that is both highly energy efficient and resilient. Developed and operated in conjunction with local organizations, Chestnut Commons supports the neighborhood with economic development and educational opportunities, arts programs, and job training services. Programming includes a Brooklyn Cooperative Federal Credit Union branch, a café, and a kitchen incubator.
Open House New York (OHNY) is back with its annual citywide celebration of architecture! Offering a unique opportunity to experience New York City and the built environment, Dattner Architects will participate in this year’s OHNY Weekend with in-person tours at projects on Saturday, October 21, Chestnut Commons and Sunday, October 22, Broome Street Development. Chestnut Commons Located on an underused public land bounded by Dinsmore Place, Chestnut Street, and Atlantic Avenue, Chestnut Commons provides 275 affordable housing units to formerly homeless, extremely low-, very low-, and low-income households. This project is part of the East New York Neighborhood Plan, released in 2016 as part of the East New York new neighborhood rezoning, outlining a commitment to expedite the construction of deeply affordable housing. This new 14-story development offers a variety of uses contributing to a self-sustaining community with activities that support, enhance, and stimulate the surrounding community. The residential portion of the building integrates programming throughout, including communal spaces on the second floor with direct access to a landscaped roof terrace for residents, extending indoor activities to the outdoors. A large portion of the 14th floor roof is a gardening area with raised planting beds to create opportunities for active planting and vegetable cultivation. Broome Street Development Our recently completed Suffolk and Norfolk buildings are located just South of the Essex Crossing in the Lower East Side. The 460,000 square foot mixed-use development encompasses a diverse mix of market-rate, affordable and senior housing, as well as a community facility, retail space and the headquarters for a well-known neighborhood social services organization. The building covers most of the city block, fronting multiple streets.  It incorporates a combination of different building heights, window proportions and careful brick detailing that relate to the mix of scales that characterize this vibrant and ever-changing neighborhood. We can’t wait to celebrate OHNY Weekend with all of you. See you on October 21-22!
Dattner Architects' Brandon Wang and Pascale Baladi were invited and engaged participants at the inaugural METROPOLIS Arch 30 program, which recognizes the next generation of leadership in architecture. Collaborating with leading design firms in select cities, METROPOLIS identifies top talent under the age of 30 that share a commitment to sustainability and knowledge sharing. Each group meets for a workshop led by the magazine's editors, followed by networking opportunities with program partners. Avi Rajagopal, editor in chief, and Verda Alexander, editor at large, were workshop facilitators. They "encouraged the young leaders in architecture to think about the challenges they face at work, how to find the support they need, and how to identify and pursue purposeful work."  Pascale and Brandon found the evening energizing and the interactive experience connecting with peers, exchanging insights, and sharing thoughts about leadership, sustainability, and architecture practices at their respective workplaces incredibly valuable. “It is an honor to have been nominated for METROPOLIS' inaugural Arch30 Event and to have the chance to connect with many like-minded young professionals who are eager to learn and push the industry forward with ambition, innovation, and camaraderie. I came out of it feeling empowered to be part of such a capable generation of architects, who simultaneously have become a peer support network.” – Pascale Baladi Read more: METROPOLIS Honors its First Arch30 Cohort in New York - Metropolis (metropolismag.com)
A decade after being selected as the winning entry in the New Housing New York Legacy Competition, Via Verde continues to serve as an archetype for future subsidized housing in New York City and beyond. The project set a precedent for how to achieve lofty design and sustainability goals for an affordable housing development while adhering to a strict budget. Ultimately creating 202 apartments spread across three distinct residential programs, Via Verde will continue to provide equitable, sustainable housing for South Bronx residents well into the future. In celebration of Via Verde's 10-year anniversary of operation Jonathan Rose Companies and Phipps Neighborhoods compiled a video detailing the history of the community. Included below is a snippet from the video, along with a link to the full version. We teamed with Grimshaw Architects and Weintraub Diaz Landscape Architecture to bring this visionary building to life. [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://www.dattner.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sequence-01.mp4"][/video] To watch the full video please visit this link: https://youtu.be/lFNdULp9xD4
JFK Areal Rendering
08.24.23

Dattner Architects on team for the $1.24B contract to design and build JFK’s Central Terminal Roadways and Ground Transportation Center

Dattner Architects is excited to be the Architect on the team for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $1.24 billion contract to design and build John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Central Terminal Area Roadways, Utilities and Ground Transportation Center (GTC) in Queens, New York. Parsons Corporation is serving as lead designer to the Skanska Halmar JFK Joint Venture. The project is a key part of the $19 billion public-private transformation of JFK into a world-class airport. When complete, it will dramatically improve access to the airport by simplifying the existing complex roadway network, providing easier to navigate access to terminals with improved frontage areas, and building a new ground transportation center for passengers to connect to taxis, for-hire vehicles, mass transit and parking. The design-build project consists of the design and construction of the on-airport roadway transportation network which includes roadway reconfiguration, maintenance and protection of traffic, intuitive wayfinding and enhanced traffic technologies, at-grade pavement, retaining walls and bridges as well as utility relocations and upgrades. The project will improve user connectivity and access to the surrounding terminals. Also included, is the design and construction of a modern Ground Transportation Center which features: 1,950-space multi-level vehicle parking facility equipped with electric vehicle charging stations and an eco-conscious timber façade 400-foot-long elevated pedestrian bridge with pedestrian canopies Rainwater harvesting facility Energy-efficient provisions for solar paneling Read more below: https://www.panynj.gov/port-authority/en/press-room/press-release-archives/2022-press-releases1/port-authority-signs--1-24-billion-contract-to-design-and-build-.html
Launched by the City of Hoboken, the Maritime Park Concept Design spans from March 2023 to November 2023 and includes a multi-disciplinary core team led by Dattner Architects, with SCAPE, Indigo River and Kimley Horn. As the final missing link in completing Hoboken's section of the New Jersey Hudson River Walkway, the site's conversion to the new Maritime Park will create a contiguous waterfront park from southern Pier A all the way north to Weehawken Cove. The Hoboken Maritime Park Project is a visioning, planning, and community engagement process to re-imagine the former Union Dry Dock, the last remaining industrial site along the Hoboken waterfront. The intent is to build sustainable and resilient pieces of public parks infrastructure for the visitors and residents while maintaining the city’s waterfront history. The first of three planned public meetings was held April 4th, 2023. Its aim was to share and discuss the project team’s site analysis and include the community in the visioning process though science fair-style thematic stations. The feedback gathered in the first workshop as well as the online survey informed three design approaches that were presented in a Public Meeting on July 11, 2023. We are excited to share the Design Approaches presented at the meeting. By aligning the Hudson River Walkway with Frank Sinatra Drive, the Civic Pier Approach provides expansive spaces for gathering including a Civic Hub (building), Lookout Lawn, and a reconstructed Programmed Pier with berths for Event Barges. The Civic Pier Approach provides Hoboken with a civic waterfront destination centered around gathering and immersive river experiences. You can view the presentation and work the team has done to date and stay informed for future updates at the following website:  https://maritime-park-cityofhoboken.hub.arcgis.com/ The future Maritime Park site sits within a short walking distance to a series of well-loved public parks and open spaces. The close proximity of a number of existing programs and amenities should inform the program selection for the future park to avoid redundancy. The unique location of the site along the waterfront should be seen as an opportunity to establish a new relationship with the water. “This is an important moment in Hoboken’s history, in which residents will help us build a beautiful waterfront park that will benefit generations of Hoboken residents to come... We’ve fought long and hard to ensure this site is preserved for resident access, and I’m excited to hear what amenities our community envisions for this world class park.” said Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla in his fourth State of the City address in March 2023.
Dattner Architects’ Principal Ruth Ro AIA is featured in Madame Architect, a platform that highlights and celebrates diverse and inspiring women that shape the architecture industry. In an interview with Madame Architect founder, Julia Gamolina, Ruth gives her thoughts on authenticity, inclusivity, and bringing your whole self to work. “I’m always inserting my identity into casual conversation. It’s important. As a Partner, I try to create a work environment that is inclusive, to give everyone an opportunity to do their best work, and to encourage diverse perspectives.” Ruth joined Dattner Architects in 2012 and was elevated to Principal in 2022. In 2020, Ruth founded the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion group at Dattner Architects — tackling intersectional issues that affect minority employees in the workplace. As a leader and mentor, she is dedicated to facilitating an inclusive and understanding workplace. Ruth leads many of the firm’s large mixed-use projects, which currently include Steiner Sequel in Sunset Park.
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06.20.23

Neighborhoods Now: Kingsbridge Community District Needs Assessment

Neighborhoods Now is a community-led design initiative to help NYC recover from the effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Launched in Spring 2020, by the Urban Design Forum and Van Alen Institute, the initiative taps into a collective network of architects, engineers, and designers to support local organizations leading their community’s recovery. Dattner Architects stepped forward to lend support, and we have been involved with the initiative ever since. Through Neighborhoods Now, one of the groups we worked with is the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition (NWBCCC) – a member-led, grassroots organization fighting for racial and economic equity in the Bronx. They have completed a Community District Needs Assessment to illustrate the current challenges and opportunities for small businesses and tenants in the immediate vicinity of the Kingsbridge Armory as it undergoes a potential redevelopment. The report aims to highlight the features of urban life in the Kingsbridge Neighborhood and tell a story of the diversity, passion, and tenacity of this neighborhood and its residents. “For us, the Bronx is home. It’s where we raise families, get an education, go to work, own businesses, create art, and find spiritual connection. We are people whose families have lived here for generations. And we are people who have come here from other boroughs and countries. Our community reflects a diversity of races, ethnicities, cultures, and faith traditions.” -NWBCCC In a joint effort to empower and uplift the Kingsbridge community, Dattner Architects joined Neighborhoods Now’s collective network of interdisciplinary partnerships, along with Scalar Architecture to support NWBCCC in their vision for a more resilient future. Learn more about the initiative here.
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04.27.23

425 Grand Concourse Wins Green Good Design Award

Dattner Architects is proud to share that 425 Grand Concourse has won a 2023 Green Good Design Award! Organized by the European Centre and the Chicago Athenaeum, the Green Good Design Sustainability Awards recognizes "outstanding individuals, companies, organizations, governments, and institutions — together with their products, services, programs, ideas, and concepts — that have forwarded exceptional thinking and inspired greater progress toward a more healthier and more sustainable universe." The largest PHIUS-certified Passive House project in North America, 425 Grand Concourse is a new mixed-use and mixed-income development, providing the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx with 277 affordable housing apartments. The project also includes an educational student services center, health clinic, supermarket, cultural space, and other community amenities. The design of 425 Grand Concourse honors the history of the site, which sits on land formerly occupied by Public School 31, a Bronx institution originally built in 1899. The former property fell into disrepair and remained abandoned for many years. In tribute to the site’s rich history, the PS 31 sign and other decorative façade elements were salvaged and are on display in the lobby of 425 Grand Concourse. The development implements high-efficiency building systems with an air-tight building envelope, energy recovery ventilation, and sustainable features to significantly reduce heat loss and gain. The project will surpass the Enterprise Green Communities Criteria and the design incorporates NYC Active Design Guidelines to encourage opportunities for physical activity. This benchmark sustainable project provides a model for healthy living environments in a district with one of the worst childhood asthma rates in the country. Architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning projects, product, and graphic designs from over 32 nations were awarded with Green Good Design awards, representing the world’s most important design firms, manufacturers, and leading FORTUNE 500 corporations that are forwarding a new emphasis on a more sustainable design and environment worldwide.
AIA New York State Excelsior Award, Vital Brookdale
04.25.23

Vital Brookdale Wins AIA New York State Excelsior Award

Dattner Architects is proud to announce that Vital Brookdale is a recipient of a 2023 AIA New York State Excelsior Award! This prestigious award recognizes a project's overall performance, design excellence, and impact on the community — all within the context of a publicly funded project. “It is an honor for our Vital Brookdale project to be recognized as a recipient of the 2023 AIA New York State Excelsior Award. Offering community-based healthcare, supportive services, and sustainable and modern features, Vital Brookdale has created a new standard for the future of affordable housing developments. Thank you to AIA, the Brooklyn community, the State, and all of our incredible partners for making this possible.” — Michael T. Rooney, Founding Principal, MDG Design + Construction Vital Brookdale is located on a unique site that was originally an ineffectively-used surface parking lot for an adjacent hospital. Through an innovative public-private partnership, the site was transformed, creating 160 units of affordable housing and 25,000 square feet of health-focused community space in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn. "Vital Brookdale is a successful example of how Passive House can be incorporated into our existing affordable housing framework in NYC. As the first project to be completed as part of NYS’ Vital Initiative, it’s been gratifying to work on a project that highlights health and wellness as just as critical to sustainability as energy efficiency. Construction started in April 2020, and it was a true team effort to get this project completed while navigating how to build a Passive House project when most people were working from home. We’re glad to see our collective hard work, the mission of the project, and the overall design, recognized by AIA NYS." — Shefali Sanghvi AIA, Director of Sustainability, Dattner Architects This Passive House project has a 100kW roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system, green roof, high-performance mechanical systems, insulation and windows, LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, and several other energy-efficient measures to ensure the comfort and affordability for residents as well as sustainability of the building. The design team also carefully selected interior materials while keeping in mind the ease of install, cost of material, maintenance, and impact on resident health. The end result is a project that is a model of affordable, community-based, sustainable multifamily housing in New York City. "Smith & Henzy is proud to be a member of the amazing team of professionals that came together to make Vital Brookdale a leading example of affordable sustainable development in New York.  We wish to commend Dattner Architects for their innovative design and vision for this project." — Timothy Henzy, Principal, Smith & Henzy
Crain's New York has selected Dattner Architects' Principal John Woelfling as one of this year's sustainability pacesetters propelling New York toward a greener future. Crain's Notable Leaders in Sustainability features a list of 50 individuals who are pioneers in their fields, driving innovation, and advocating for sustainability in the areas of energy, real estate, technology, finance, and more. "As a New Yorker that has dedicated the last two decades of my professional career to designing and delivering high performance, sustainable buildings, it is an honor to receive this recognition from Crain's. Reduction of our energy usage and altering the amount of greenhouse gas emitted by humans is the existential challenge of our times. I am glad to be honored with like-minded problem solvers." — John Woelfling AIA John leads Dattner Architects' residential work, designing large-scale, urban affordable housing that embodies environmental responsibility and resident wellbeing. Under his leadership, the firm has developed specialized expertise in designing and building sustainable multi-family buildings; his commitment to sustainability and innovation has resulted in the completion of 961 new units of Passive House affordable housing for New Yorkers.
Dattner Architects' Associate Wei Wang has been named the New York State Young Architect Representative (YAR) within AIA National's Young Architects Forum (YAF) program. She has also been selected as the Committee on the Environment (COTE) liaison for YAF. The YAF program is organized to help emerging designers address important issues and serves as a collective voice for recently licensed architects. YAF's mission is to: Engage recently licensed architects in leadership to become agents of change within the profession Inspire professional growth among recently licensed architects through camaraderie and networking Advocate for issues of particular relevance to recently licensed architects Serve to make AIA memberships meaningful to recently licensed architects through programs and services Promote mentorship at all career stages to enhance personal growth, community involvement, and professional development As YAF's New York State representative, Wei will be an advocate for recently licensed designers at the local, state, and national levels as well as the bi-directional conduit of information from National to State; State to Local; and vice versa — providing monthly and bi-monthly update reports. COTE is an AIA Knowledge Community working for architects, allied professionals, and the public to achieve climate action and climate justice through design. As YAF's COTE liaison, Wei will attend monthly COTE Leadership Group meetings, provide updates on YAF activities, identify collaboration opportunities and resource needs, and engage with the Next Generation Working Group. She will also participate in YAF coordination and communicate opportunities at the national level. "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to represent the next generation of architects as the Young Architect Representative for New York State and the Committee on the Environment liaison for YAF, allowing me to collaborate with like-minded professionals to drive positive change in our industry. With sustainability and equity at the forefront of our goals, the AIA provides an ideal platform for us to translate these aspirations into tangible action. As the YAR, I am committed to fostering cross-disciplinary engagement and promoting innovative ideas that will transform the way we design and build. I look forward to working closely with YAF and COTE to advance our shared mission and make a meaningful impact in our communities." — Wei Wang AIA, LEED AP BD+C
ASLA-NY Design Award - Alafia
04.03.23

Alafia Wins ASLA-NY Design Award

Alafia is the recipient of a Merit Award in Community Impact from the American Society of Landscape Architects - New York (ASLA-NY) chapter. The Community Impact award recognizes built and unbuilt projects focused on landscape architecture in underserved communities or impacting disadvantaged populations. Situated on a 28-acre site at the edge of New York City, Alafia is an ambitious master plan that transforms a decommissioned state psychiatric hospital into a new wellness-oriented resilient urban development designed to address the chronic social, economic, and health disparities in a historically underserved area. Once completed, Alafia will bring over 2,400 affordable apartments to the neighborhood, including units for the formerly homeless, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and seniors. This is the result of community engagement and the collaborative efforts of a public-private-nonprofit partnership. This year's ASLA-NY Design Award winners will be recognized during a ceremony on April 19 as well as on display at the Center for Architecture through the month of April in celebration of World Landscape Architecture month.
On March 28, Dattner Architects hosted a panel discussion in collaboration with ArchNative — a women-owned platform that aims to celebrate and empower the dynamic women within the AEC and Real Estate industries. Panelists included Gia Mainiero, Heather McKinstry, Kathy Mu, Gabriella Orsi, and Annabelle Swain with ArchNative's Diana Fedorkova as moderator. The group discussed their journeys into architecture, sustainability and the built environment, the future of technology and its impact on design, and the piece of advice they would give to their younger selves. The panel concluded with a Q&A from the audience, including students from local universities, followed by a tour of the Dattner Architects' office.
Citizens Housing & Planning Council (CHPC) has honored 425 Grand Concourse with the Impact for Community Investment Award. "After working with a village of collaborators for seven years, 425 Grand Concourse can now be a healthy, resilient, and sustainable home for hundreds of New Yorkers. It has been such an honor for our team at Dattner Architects to have worked on this project and to demonstrate that affordable, multi-family buildings can be designed and built to Passive House standards while at the same time respecting the neighborhood history and integrating with the context. Congratulations to our clients—Trinity Financial and MBD—and all the partners that have helped raise the bar for what New York City housing can be." — John Woelfling, Principal 425 Grand Concourse provides the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx with 277 units of affordable housing, while the two-story base includes a medical facility; supermarket; community spaces for a local non-profit; comfort station for neighboring city park and playground—activating what was for nearly 20 years, an abandoned site; and a CUNY Hostos student services center. The largest PHIUS-certified Passive House development in North America, 425 Grand Concourse is a model for healthy living environments in a district with one of the worst childhood asthma rates in the country. Active ventilation brings filtered fresh air to all bedrooms and living rooms, keeping a constant flow of clean air without pollutants, pollen, or respiratory virus particles, increasing interior comfort and air quality. Continuous insulation at the façade, lack of thermal breaks, and high-quality windows mean the building stays temperate no matter the weather outdoors, even with a temporary loss of power. 425 Grand Concourse is the result of the collaboration between the design and development team, city and local stakeholders, and community members to understand and address the community’s need for more high-quality affordable homes.
Duberstein, GSA Design Awards
03.23.23

Duberstein Wins GSA Design Award

On March 15, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) recognized the Conrad B. Duberstein U.S. Bankruptcy Courthouse with a Citation Award in Workplace Design at an awards ceremony in Washington DC. During the event, GSA and its Administrator Robin Carnahan presented the agency's top design awards for 19 federal projects, representing the best in architecture and arts. "Through these awards, we are reaffirming our belief that excellence in design means creating spaces in which the federal government can deliver government effectively while also providing great overall experiences for the people who work in and visit federal facilities." — Robin Carnahan, GSA Administrator Duberstein, a four-story Romanesque revival structure, was originally completed in 1892 with a subsequent seven-story expansion in 1933. Today, the U.S. Courts Bankruptcy and Probation Consolidation aims to reactivate the Johnson Street entrance and upgrade the workplace through a phased approach to design and construction. This renovation reimagines the workplace environment for each U.S. Courts department and bridges the historic elements of the building with contemporary state-of-the-art office needs for future flexibility. The investment on integrated design such as energy efficiency and smart building technologies was key to the design philosophy. "The spaces are understated and straightforward, letting the building's history and its architecture speak for themselves." — Kay Sargent, GSA Design Awards Juror "On behalf of the entire AE team, I am so proud to receive this GSA Workplace award for the U.S. Courthouse consolidation project at the Conrad B. Duberstein U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in conjunction with GSA project manager, Robert Olohan. [Dattner Architects' Principal] Paul Bauer and I were excited to connect with GSA leadership, the jury, and fellow award recipients after the event in DC. Dattner looks forward to continuing these conversations on current and future endeavors." — Catherine Selby, Dattner Architects' Principal
On March 8, Dattner Architects' Principal Gia Mainiero participated in a panel discussion on the future of collaborative project delivery in New York City as part of this year's New York Build Expo. Gia was joined on the panel by Alison Landry (Associate Commissioner, NYC Department of Design & Construction), Kimberlee Toscano (Senior Principal, Toscano Clements Taylor), and Raquel Diaz (Public Sector Area Manager, Gilbane) with Dennis Sanschagrin (Senior Vice President, PULLMAN SST) as panel moderator. "Our panel at New York Build was an invigorating discussion on the future of collaborative delivery in New York. Bringing together leaders from all stages of the process embodied the spirit of partnership and communication that is so core to the success of the delivery model." — Gia Mainiero, Principal New York Build is the largest construction and design show for New York and the Tri-State area, bringing together thousands of senior-level decision-makers, buyers, experts, and thought leaders from the AEC and real estate industries. The expo features 350+ high-level speakers across 12 tracks; workshops; 300+ exhibitors; live demonstrations; and networking events.
On January 26, AIA New York (AIANY)'s Women in Architecture (WIA) Committee celebrated women architects, who became licensed in the past year, during the committee's annual new year party at Brickworks Design Studio. As part of the festivities, the committee also honored Dattner Architects' Dana Moore with their Women in Architecture Recognition Award. This awards program highlights a recently licensed architect who demonstrates strong leadership skills and a commitment to the growth and advancement of the profession. Dana will receive a $1,000 stipend towards travel and miscellaneous expenses at this year's AIA National Conference in San Francisco. "Thank you to the Women in Architecture Committee! I'm honored to have been recognized among so many dedicated and accomplished candidates. I look forward to attending the AIA Conference in June and connecting with more sustainability-minded architects." — Dana Moore AIA Committed to socially responsible and sustainable design, Dana is an active member of the firm's Sustainable Practice Group where she has helped develop research, publications, and other knowledge-sharing initiatives. Beyond the office, Dana has taken part in the NYC Department of Sanitation's 2021 Zero Waste Academy and currently serves as an Urban Design Forum Forefront Fellow.
On February 8, Associate Heather McKinstry will take part in Passive House Accelerator (PHA) Live's Next Gen series for "Scale: Exploring the Extents of Passive House." Heather will discuss how large buildings can lower energy use, while overcoming the challenges presented by the density of urban housing. As real world solutions have been developed to meet Passive House standards, new opportunities have been created to build more efficiently across all building types. Join us as we talk about how Passive House has helped rapidly transform the market. PHA Live is a weekly series that brings together Passive House experts and those curious about Passive House to share lessons learned and best practices. PHA Live's Next Gen edition highlights the work of the next generation of practitioners and how their contributions are shaping the future of Passive House.
In recognition of their demonstrated leadership, dedication to our firm and our values, and passion for civic architecture, Dattner Architects is proud to announce the promotions of our four new Associates: Gustavo Munoz, Brandon Wang, Kristy Phillips, and Matthew Barlow. “Our four new associates each bring a unique perspective to our practice. We are grateful for their commitment and accomplishments—and quite excited to have them join the leadership of our associates group.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Gustavo Munoz AIA With over 30 years of experience, Gustavo Munoz’s architectural expertise is in constructability and detailing. He is passionate about seeing projects come together in the field, and uses this passion to bring mixed-use, affordable housing developments to life. Gus has previous experience working directly for general contractors, developers, as well as having his own firm. Brandon Wang RA Brandon Wang approaches design with conceptual tact and environmental sensitivity. He is invested in architecture that supports and propels the infrastructural operations of cities, and promotes civic spaces. Brandon has contributed to infrastructure projects and competitions of different scales in forms of research, working drawings, visualizations, and fieldwork. He serves as a Studio Resource Leader for the firm’s Transportation and Infrastructure studio as well as a Co-Chair for the Sustainable Practice Group. Kristy Phillips AIA Kristy Phillips is interested in the environmental and social implications of her work, and focuses on designing spaces that educate, inspire, and expose people to humanized design, natural materials, and thoughtful craftsmanship. She has experience working on a variety of projects types, including schools, community centers, office buildings, and mixed-use residential developments. Matthew Barlow As Proposal and Business Development Director, Matthew Barlow leads new business development initiatives and works closely with firm leadership, design teams, and clients to develop thoughtful, tailored proposals. He is dedicated to fostering and promoting the vitality of the design process, and the evolving impact it has on the communities and environments it serves.
Ruth Ro Joins Dattner Architects’ Partners Group Dattner Architects is pleased to announce that Ruth Ro AIA, LEED AP BD+C has been elevated to Principal in recognition of her contributions to the firm and her evolving role in the practice. “After 11 years at Dattner Architects, Ruth Ro is joining our partnership, becoming our fifth woman owner. To each endeavor, she brings her characteristic energy and optimism, her commitment to diversity and social equity, and her talent as a designer and project leader—I am excited to see what she creates with this expanded platform.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Naturally adept at bringing people together and facilitating dialogue, Ruth Ro leads the planning and architectural design of large-scale mixed-use projects. Her approach to working with clients and consultants is characterized by a commitment to problem solving through design and the belief in successful collaboration. Ruth is part of Dattner Architects’ Design and Technology Committee and she is one of the leaders in the firm’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee. “I am proud to be joining a partnership of colleagues whose combined strengths, shared mission, and commitment to great design continue to reinforce Dattner Architects’ reputation as good neighbors to the communities we serve and respected leaders in the profession.” — Ruth Ro Keith Engel is Elevated to Associate Principal Dattner Architects is also pleased to announce that Keith Engel AIA, LEED AP BD+C, CPHD has joined the Associate Principals group. “Keith’s professional work and advocacy for providing housing for those most in need is remarkable. As a Studio Leader at Dattner Architects, he has created an environment where professionals at all levels flourish. We are pleased to welcome him to our Associates Principals group.” — Kirsten Sibilia, Managing Principal Keith Engel values architecture’s ability to affect change and provide meaningful and equitable experiences, and he has dedicated his career to practicing socially responsible design with a focus on affordable and supportive housing. Keith has a nuanced perspective of a city in constant transition, and a personal commitment to a collaborative practice that invigorates neighborhoods and promotes constructive dialogue within the urban realm. He also currently serves as one of the firm’s Housing Studio Directors. “I am grateful and honored to join the Associate Principals and Principals in leading the civic mission of Dattner Architects. Consideration for essential and socially-engaged architecture is what drew me to Dattner 10 years ago, and I’m excited to continue to evolve a practice in service of those most vulnerable members of society—the unhoused in particular, and those that experience housing insecurity writ large.” — Keith Engel
QBBAAwards Web 3
12.22.22

QBBA Awards

Dattner Architects had the recent honor of receiving two significant awards at the Queens & Bronx Building Association (QBBA) Gala. Located in the East New York neighborhood of Brooklyn, our design for 50 Penn was recognized with a QBBA Building Award for its elegant design on a complicated site. The transit-oriented, mixed-use development sits adjacent to the elevated J/Z Subway and the below-grade A/C Subway. As a former industrial site, it was remediated through the Brownfield Cleanup Program. 50 Penn includes 218 apartments, 42 of which are dedicated to formerly homeless and elderly households. Commercial and retail spaces activate the ground floor, including a health-food grocery store developed through New York City's FRESH program which promotes nutritious, affordable, and fresh food in underserved neighborhoods. We were also honored with the first-ever QBBA Bronx Borough President's Award for 425 Grand Concourse. Borough President Gibson's Deputy BP, Janet Peguero, complimented the building design in her remarks as a gateway to the Bronx and an appropriate replacement for the former PS 31 school that previously occupied the site. 425 Grand Concourse is a model for dense urban development with 277 all-affordable apartments, a mixed-use podium that includes a CUNY Hostos student center, community medical center, and grocery store. At 26 stories and over 300,000 square feet, 425 Grand Concourse is the largest certified PHIUS Passive House project to date. "Thank you to QBBA for this great honor. We are so proud to have our work recognized for the impact that can be made through reinvesting in our New York City neighborhoods." — John Woelfling
Dattner Architects joined MDG Design & Construction, Smith & Henzy Advisory Group, The New York Foundling, City and State officials, and local community partners for the ribbon cutting ceremony at Vital Brookdale, a new mixed-use Passive House development in Brooklyn. "Vital Brookdale is a superb example of affordable, multifamily passive house housing in NYC. The unique site created some challenges, but the design and construction teams worked together to create a beautiful project. This building integrates well into the community and furthers many of the State's goals in the Vital Brooklyn initiative. We are honored to be part of this team and excited to celebrate this milestone." — Shefali Sanghvi, Director of Sustainability Vital Brookdale is the first building to be completed under New York State’s Vital Brooklyn Initiative—an ongoing community development program for underserved neighborhoods in Central Brooklyn. An exemplary model of affordable Passive House and community-based housing with healthcare, Vital Brookdale brings 160 units of affordable housing and 25,000 square feet of health-focused community space to the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn. Alongside deeply affordable apartments, Vital Brookdale provides resources that promote health and wellness, job training, outdoor green space, and opportunities for recreation, supporting residents and the surrounding community. Tenants have access to a second floor terrace, and front and rear-courtyards, which includes landscaping, a dog run, play area as well as passive recreation and seating areas. Additional amenities include complimentary building-wide wireless-internet access, a multi-purpose community room, game room, library/co-working space, fitness room, laundry room, cold-storage locker and package rooms, and a bike storage room. This Passive House project has a 100kW roof-mounted solar photovoltaic system, green roof, high-performance mechanical systems, insulation and windows, LED lighting, low-flow water fixtures, and several other energy-efficient measures to ensure the comfort and affordability for residents as well as sustainability of the building.
Dattner Architects' Associate Heather McKinstry has been named one of Professional Women in Construction (PWC)'s 20 under 40. The recipients represent a diverse group of 20 individuals excelling in their respective careers. "I’m honored to have been selected as one of PWC’s 20 under 40 Women in Construction.  The tireless work of organization like PWC have changed the culture of the construction industry, and I’m proud to be able to contribute to the work of building our cities."— Heather McKinstry Heather believes that architecture's most important role is to create inclusive, healthy, and sustainable buildings for communities, while minimizing their impact on the natural environment. As a leader in the firm's Sustainable Practice Group, she chairs the committee on building energy usage. Heather was most recently the Project Manager for 425 Grand Concourse, the largest Passive House (PHIUS) certified building in North America. The 2022 20 Under 40 Class will be honored and celebrated at a ceremony during PWC's holiday party on December 8.
DA WEB PhiusConAwards Feat
11.21.22

PHIUS Design Awards

Dattner Architects is proud to share that 425 Grand Concourse and Santaella Gardens were big winners at this year's PhiusCon in Chicago. 425 Grand Concourse took home the award for Best Overall Project as well as Best High-Rise Multifamily, while Santaella Gardens won the Best Project by a Young Professional. 425 Grand Concourse is the largest Passive House (PHIUS) certified project in North America. The 26-story building implements high efficiency building systems with an air-tight building envelope, energy recovery ventilation, and sustainable features to significantly reduce heat loss and gain. The development will consume up to 70% less energy than a conventional housing project. Santaella Garden's super-insulated, virtually air-tight building envelope includes thermally broken, high-performance windows and advanced air sealing details to eliminate condensation and air exfiltration. The high-performance envelope offers residents enhanced thermal comfort while lowering heating and cooling costs. The 8th Annual Passive Projects Design Competition recognized fully certified passive building projects of all types and in all climate zones. Competition categories included: Best Overall Project; Best Single Family; Best High-Rise Multifamily; Best Low-Rise Multifamily; Best Commercial / Institutional; Best Retrofit; Best Source Zero; and Best Project by a Young Professional.    
Dattner Architects is proud to celebrate the grand opening of the Stanley Manne Research Institute! Located at the Bronx High School of Science, the Manne Institute is a new state-of-the-art research building named after, and generously funded by, Bronx Science alumnus Stanley Manne. The donation from Mr. Manne represents the largest individual gift to The Bronx High School of Science Alumni Foundation ever, and the largest gift to a New York City public school in history. This university-level facility will allow high school students from across the Bronx to conduct long-term experiments, preparing them for college or professional settings. The building houses three multidisciplinary labs, a walk-in cold room, tissue culture room, microscopy room, sterilization room, animal room, and a multi-purpose room for special events. Like a professional lab, spaces are modular and flexible, as equipment and science requirements change over time. Each lab is served by a computational room for group meetings, lectures, and experiment data review. “The Manne Institute is a transformative project for Bronx Science and our biggest undertaking ever as a Foundation. We needed an architecture firm who could go beyond design. We needed a firm with true expertise, tremendous respect in the industry and the capabilities to help advise through all steps of the project. As we did our research, it became apparent that Daniel Heuberger and his team at Dattner checked all of those boxes and more. We simply could have never done this project without Dattner Architects and their talents.” — Eleanor Coufus, VP - Alumni Foundation, Bronx High School of Science Offering summer study programs and faculty mentorship opportunities, the Manne Institute will also enable promising students from Bronx Science and other area public high schools additional advanced research opportunities in Microbiology, Animal Behavior, and Genetics. “This is more than a unique research facility, but a wonderful Bronx story as well. A graduate of the school, Stanley Manne, has given another generation of ambitious and bright students an opportunity to embark on a lifetime of scientific inquiry.” — Daniel Heuberger, Principal, Dattner Architects Although its footprint is modest in size, this research center is a highly visible place-making addition to the school campus. Along with the much larger main building, it completes the outdoor courtyard where students gather between classes. The lab is visible from all sides, and subtle offsets in the massing and screening of the roof top mechanical plant give each façade a unique visual proportion and contextual relationship. The building is conceived as a precise, finely detailed scientific object. The façade is composed of tightly spaced, fiber-reinforced concrete panels, punctuated by modular openings that respond to the compact and rational laboratory plans. The three-dimensional panels cast changing and dynamic shadows on the façade over the course of the day. Bright green brick accents representing the school color mark the entrances and line the main stair and lobby. “The Stanley Manne Research Institute provides a unique opportunity for talented NYC public high school students to be trained in a university-level laboratory. Who knows what important breakthroughs in biology or medicine will be made by these future scientists?” — Brian Nesin, Senior Associate, Dattner Architects
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