Transforming Kips Bay Tower: Rooftop Oasis & Vibrant Plaza

Located in the heart of Manhattan's east side, the Kips Bay Residential Tower stands tall as a 36-story testament to comfort and convenience. Real estate agency Kibel enlisted the expertise of EDG to renovate the property's shared roof and ground plaza areas, with the aim of maximizing the value of these existing spaces. EDG faced numerous challenges, including navigating complex building codes, conducting structural analysis, and repurposing existing components to achieve a cohesive and welcoming design.

On the ground plaza, the EDG team introduced geometry and materials to enhance the existing site elements. This privately-owned public space (POPS) serves as a bustling hub in Midtown East, drawing in lunchtime pedestrians and shoppers. In desperate need of an update, EDG redesigned the plaza, addressing issues such as wear and tear and overall aesthetics. Circulation and accessibility were also improved, seamlessly connecting the plaza with the retail, office, and recently updated residential lobby entrance. With a prominent position on the 2nd Avenue corner, the plaza now features an inviting image field created by a selection of paving materials, beckoning visitors and passersby.

The roof of the Kips Bay Residential Tower presented its own set of challenges. To transform this previously inaccessible space into a private oasis in the sky, the EDG team extended elevators to provide easy access for tenants. They meticulously reviewed building codes, conducted a structural analysis to ensure the existing roof could handle increased loading, and repurposed mechanical rooms into amenity space. The result is a sprawling outdoor building amenity spanning 10,000 square feet, complete with a pool, lush garden, and pergolas. From this vantage point, residents can enjoy breathtaking 360° views of the city, making it the ultimate summer destination for the tower's 300 apartment tenants.

EDG's expertise in architecture and engineering truly unlocked the potential of the community spaces within the residential tower. The ground plaza has been transformed into a more functional and robust space, serving as a vibrant hub in the neighborhood. Accessibility, visibility, and seating capacity have been increased, maximizing retail potential and creating a distinct landmark piazza with carefully considered geometry and materials. This unique gathering space caters to both the building's residents and the surrounding community, providing intimate areas for relaxation and larger units for social interaction. The result is a rich civic space that breathes new life into the area.

The Kips Bay Residential Tower project serves as a shining example of how architects and engineers can create tremendous value in previously inaccessible and underutilized building spaces. Through the vision and expertise of EDG, the roof has been transformed into a private oasis, while the ground plaza has become a vibrant and functional space. With meticulous planning and attention to detail, EDG has enhanced the overall experience for residents and visitors alike, creating a harmonious blend of comfort, convenience, and aesthetic appeal in the heart of Manhattan's east side.

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