New York Construction Report staff writer
A project to improve safety and access at a cultural center in the Bronx has been recognized with a merit award from the Society of American Registered Architects (SARA).
Building a new historically accurate gatehouse was part of the $3.5 million project to revamp Wave Hill’s public entry area and parking lot.
“Many New Yorkers may be surprised to know that through our Project Excellence program the City’s new libraries, cultural centers, firehouses and other public buildings are created by some of the country’s best design firms,” said NYC Department of Design and Construction Commissioner Thomas Foley. “This project improved the visitor experience at Wave Hill and replaced the existing gatehouse with a new structure that honors the site’s historic nature.”
The project, completed in 2021 at a cost of $3.5 million to build, reconstructed Wave Hill’s public entry with a new pedestrian entrance and pathway with upgraded lighting. The parking lot was repaved and nearby retaining walls that had deteriorated were replaced. New wall lighting and safety bollards were also added to the parking area.
“The NYC Department of Cultural Affairs is proud to work alongside DDC to invest in and build cultural infrastructure that is more beautiful, sustainable, and accessible for all New Yorkers,” said NYC Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo. “This wonderful project at Wave Hill is a great example of how this amazing partnership can benefit our city, and we thank the Society of American Registered Architect for this exciting recognition.”
Wave Hill’s public entry areas now includes a new gatehouse as well as a new pedestrian entrance and pathway with upgraded lighting.
A new gatehouse replaces an older one that had deteriorated near the garden’s entry. The new gatehouse was designed to be historically accurate, keeping with the landmark status of the site, and includes telecom and fiber optic capability for staff.
The design of the project was completed by CTA Architects.
DDC previously completed a renovation of Wave Hill House, a close to $10 million project that was a partnership between the City of New York, New York State and a group of devoted private supporters. The renovation of the building improved ADA accessibility, repaired water damage, upgraded lighting, plumbing and HVAC and replaced the boiler.
