City celebrates construction start of new Center for Architecture

Real Estate Weekly, April 16, 2003

New York City Buildings Commissioner Patricia Lancaster, AIA, recently joined the American Institute of Architects (AIA) NY Chapter to celebrate the beginning of construction for the Center for Architecture.

Over 200 public officials, friends, colleagues and architects gathered on Feb. 6 at the center's future site to celebrate the milestone.

"The Center for Architecture will establish an important design presence in New York City. Serving as a public resource center and exhibition facility, the CFA will extend an invitation to the public to engage with architects and the greater design, construction and real estate community," said George H. Miller, FAIA, president of the 3,200-member professional group and managing partner of Pei Cobb Freed.

The AIA New York Chapter also used the event to announce that New York-based IBEX Construction was selected to construct the project following a selection process that included submissions by over 40 construction companies.

"We are excited about working closely with the ALA as this important center comes to life," said Andy Frankl, IBEX Construction president. "It's an honor and a privilege to have the leading architectural organization in New York select us for such a vital project for the city and AIA."

The chapter and its affiliate, the New York Foundation for Architecture, Inc., continue to receive the community's support for its capital campaign, having raised $4 million of the $6 million goal to date to fund the purchase and construction costs.

"This project has been a vision of the AIA for some time now," said Rick Bell, FAIA, AIA New York Chapter executive director.

With multiple exhibit galleries and conference rooms, an auditorium, library, workshop and lounge for informal meetings, the Center for Architecture will provide critical resources needed by the public, and young and seasoned professionals. The 12,000-SF facility will be located at 534 LaGuardia Place, just two blocks south of Washington Square Park. Construction is expected to be completed by fall 2003.

Andrew Berman of New York is serving as architect for the project.

The AIA New York Chapter, the oldest and largest component of the American Institute of Architects, provides a wide range of educational programs open both to members and the general public. Information about programs and membership is available by calling 212/683-0023 or by visiting the web site, www.aiany.org.