Owner
New York City Convention Center Operating Corporation
Architect
I.M. Pei & Partners / Javits II Architects
Engineer
Weidlinger Associates
Construction Manager
Tishman Construction
Facade Consultant
R.A. Heintges & Associates
Completion
2013
Contract Value
67m
Program
3-stories, 150 ft
LEED Rating
Seeking Silver certification
Building Type
Convention Center
Facade
459,000 sqft; 4-sided structurally glazed system with exterior wet seal
Glass
1 1/8 inch IGU's spanning 10 ft x 10 ft dimensions, glass also in 5 ft x 10 ft dimensions; provided by Viracon
Description
Reclad of one of the largest applications of space frame technology in the world
|
This exhibit space on Manhattan’s west side has been a benchmark for early space frame structures since its opening in 1982, and represents one of the largest applications of the technology type in the world. I.M. Pei & Partners flexible glass box design can be divided into nine self-contained halls to accommodate trade shows of varying sizes, and has served up to 3.5 million visitors annually.
In 2006 a major renovation and expansion was undertaken to meet the demand for additional exhibit space and performance upgrades. With the original 1982 facade showing signs of aging, a reclad program began in July 2010 to replace the entire curtainwall system. Enclos is responsible for this retrofit program, which includes removal of the existing facade and the engineering, fabrication and installation of new curtainwall and skylight systems. After three decades of advancement by the glass industry, the new glazing system will increase energy performance dramatically in comparison to the original structure while simultaneously increasing building transparency — ultimatly having a dramatic effect on both visitors and building performance.
The Javits retrofit program was designed around a series of energy performance standards ultimately aimed at LEED Silver certification. While previously operating at 10% below the performance requirements of current energy codes, the post-retrofit convention space is expected to exceed it by 25%.
Enclos and Baker Metal Products provided fabrication services, with Enclos alone handling the assembly and glazing of curtainwall units. Two performance and visual mock-ups were conducted to confirm these glazing systems.
To speed both the removal and installation of the glazing systems, Enclos will operate its own dedicated tower crane throughout the construction process. A double picking technique (lifting two units at a time by crane) will also be employed.
The Javits facade renovation and expansion program is scheduled for completion in December 2013. |
