Two Bryant Park

New York, NY

Originally constructed in 1906, the building is adjacent to subway tunnels on the south and west sides of the site. A new lateral load resisting system, new mechanical and electrical systems, and a new energy-efficient curtainwall replaced existing systems which were last updated in 1984. The repositioning of Two Bryant Park, formerly known as 1100 Avenue of the Americas, included relocating the lobby to the middle of the building, requiring the removal of a line of columns to create a passage from south to north, and required transfer girders and new columns to carry the gravity load down to the foundation.

The new lobby now connects to the Grace Building Plaza on the northern end and the floor above was removed to create a double-height space.  A new storefront, additional entrances, a new kiosk, and expansion of the pavilion on the plaza were also part of the renovation.  Additionally, GMS was previously retained to provide consulting services related to the waterproofing of the Plaza during the renovation of that building’s public spaces.  Design, bidding phase services and construction phase inspection services, including observation of the flood testing of the membrane, were included in GMS’s scope of work.

Owner: Brookfield Properties

Architect: MdeAS Architects