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NYC Department of Cultural Affairs Receives Revamp

The design team maintained original architectural details, such as ornamental plaster.

Mairi Beautyman -- Interior Design, 3/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

In downtown Manhattan, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs recently received a renovation by design firm Swanke Hayden Connell Architects. Located on the second floor of 31 Chambers Street in a J.R. Thomas designed-building, the offices are now equipped with all the latest technology.

The design team maintained the original ornate architecture of the space, which is recognized for details including ornamental plaster, marble wainscot, fireplaces, and door and window surrounds. The HVAC system was replaced, and the entire space was reconfigured into an open office environment including an enclosed library, conference rooms, and storage facilities.

For heating and cooling, SHCA replaced radiators with fan coil units, a move which retained the original ceiling and the original volume of the rooms. Floor trenches hide all mechanical and electrical piping.

The New York City Department of Cultural Affairs is the largest government funder of the arts in the nation. It funds public services and advocates for nonprofit cultural organizations throughout the city's five boroughs.