John W. Baumgarten Architect, P.C, wins AIA Long Island Chapter‘s Healthcare Award for Renovation

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Long Island Chapter presented its 2011 Archi Award Commendation for Health Care to John W. Baumgarten Architect, P.C., for its renovation of the Glengariff Healthcare Center’s Pratt Pavilion for Rehabilitation and Healing in Glen Cove, N.Y.

The AIA presented the Jericho-based Baumgarten firm with this award for the firm’s work at the one-time Gold Coast manse after a juried competition. The award was presented at the AIA chapter’s 47th Annual Awards Celebration on Oct. 19 at Oheka Castle, an event space in Huntington, N.Y.

The Baumgarten firm, a major player in the design of healthcare facilities throughout the tri-state area for many years, encountered a myriad of challenges in remodeling the mansion.

The original building, which dates to 1912 and sits on12 acres on the shore of the Long Island Sound, was converted to a skilled nursing facility in the 1970s. The property was sold to its current owner, Sanjay Ahuja, in 2008. The project started with the carefully engineered removal of a 2-foot thick brick-bearing wall in order to expand the building’s main lobby. The removal of this circa 1912 construction involved a logistically sophisticated sequence of bracing, shoring and underpinning, along with the threading in of new supporting steel to carry the floors above. The next phase of the project involved the conversion of an underutilized dining room into a physical therapy suite modeled after an upscale health club.

As a result of the renovation, the lobby became a significant focal point with its open and airy feeling inviting residents/patients and their families to a comfortable and warm area to socialize and congregate.

The two-story lobby features inlaid marble floors and wood-paneled wainscoting that pays homage to the building’s history. The existing grand lobby stair with its ornamental railings and ceilings were preserved, as was an original marble fireplace. Capturing abutting office suites and creating distinct seating areas defined by inlaid carpeting, further expanded the lobby footprint.

The AIA Archi Award jury praised the project for creating a “bright environment“ and for its “interesting use of furnishings.” BD+C

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