SGA uses virtual design and construction technology to redevelop N.Y. building into modern offices

A 121,059-sf, nine-story building located at 287 South Park Avenue in New York City’s Gramercy Park neighborhood is undergoing a makeover to become a modern office building.

Spagnolo Group Architecture (SGA), the lead architect for the project, is making use of virtual design and construction (VDC) technology to help design, construct, market, and manage the redevelopment. Through the use of the VDC technology, SGA is able to visualize the building improvements and make design changes in real time.

“Our use of VDC technology lets us identify optimum layouts for potential tenants and demonstrate a variety of layout possibilities in three dimensions,” says Brooks Kendall Slocum, Studio Manager, SGA, in a release. “With an understanding of the tenants’ requirements, we can more easily customize layouts in the early stages of design and present them in a visual style that is easy to understand.”

As part of the redesign, all building systems for the project will be upgraded. The upgrades include new HVAC, perimeter heating, telecom, electric, plumbing, fire protection, and an advanced BMS system. Additionally, a new stair core will be created.

The improved building will feature 14-foot ceilings and two lobby entrances with lacquered wood, chiseled limestone, grey marble, brushed granite, and stainless steel finishes. Each office floor will provide about 13,000 sf of space. Arched windows on all four facades will provide the office space with abundant natural light. A penthouse floor will include 22-foot ceilings, an 85-foot skylight, and a private roof terrace.

The project is scheduled for completion in 2018.