Building:   New York, N.Y.
Client:   Dormitory Authority of the State of New York
Architect:   Mitchell / Giurgola Architects
Structure Type:   Concrete and Steel Structure
Project Category:   City State Federal Buildings
Photos:   Click photos to enlarge

Ysrael A. Seinuk Area of Specialization:

Construction Inspections and Structural Investigations Building Alterations and Renovations

Project Award

2006 Award of Merit New York Construction

Project Description
Although the original scope of work on the Manhattan Family Court involved a renovation of the interior space in order to increase pedestrian flow, in performing the space planning study, it was discovered that the existing structure had a number of code violations. This led to an investigation of water infiltration at the basement level. In addition, the cladding for the building has had a long history of technical problems. Sidewalk bridge protection had become a permanent fixture at the building's perimeter. An extensive review of the exterior stone cladding was performed. Water samples were taken and tested at a laboratory to determine the chemical properties. The results were reviewed and solutions applied.

We also reviewed the attachments of the existing granite panel. During our inspection, it was noted that the stonework was not properly attached to the structure. Core samples of the existing concrete were taken and analyzed to determine the condition and compressive strength.

As a result of this process, it was determined that a new façade needed be installed. To rectify this public safety issue, the client directed the architect to provide the building with an entirely new skin. The new façade is constructed as a curtain wall, with granite, various forms of glass and painted aluminum panels set in full-story extruded aluminum frames. Additionally, substantial changes were made to the appearance of the building in an attempt to make the structure's image appear more approachable and open.

The Architect requested that the seven 2'-0"x12'-0" columns at the ground floor be removed and turned from a 45° angle to a 90° angle. These seven columns support 12 stories of the structure. A computer generated 3D model was generated to determine the effects of removal of the structural columns on the exterior. In order for the building to remain in full operation during construction, our office had to develop a shoring and construction sequence of work. This was accomplished by inserting temporary steel beams to support the exterior structure and the interior 3rd floor beams.

In the interior lobby space, a concrete column was removed in order to improve circulation. This was accomplished by providing a structural steel framing at the floor above and a hanging connection to support an 8'-0" deep concrete girder which spanned 90'-0". All the above work was performed with the building occupied and in full operation.