Our goal was to improve residents/workers circulation as well as the light quality of the main common space. The renovation included replacement of the HVAC systems, storefront systems, installation of new air curtain, replacement of exterior pavers, floors, refinishing of walls, and relocation/replacement of reception desk.

353 East 72nd Street is a post war Cooperative building built in 1975. With 138 residential units, the Fontaine can easily be thought of as vertical neighborhood in “The Big City” of New York. With its original design including a setback plaza and green space, as well as an additional buffer of the building arcade prior to entry to the building’s lobby, there is clear intent by the designer to provide a secluded setting for a relatively dense complex of residential cooperative homes. Add to that a name like “the Fontaine” and one can further imagine the original architect’s desire to provide an oasis for the buildings residents.

In the proposed redesign of the building’s lobby it is our goal to bring in the idea of “the Fountain”; water, cleanliness and refreshment in to the building, while paying homage to the strength and beauty of the buildings structural expression evident in its Façade. We intend to continue the pause provided by the plaza and arcade, and provide a peaceful, secure welcome into the building that provides for a life to be lived well.
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The Materials selected; Slate Stone, Terrazzo, Concrete, and Wood as well as a soothing color pallet speak to the materials found on the exterior of the building while bringing in some of the natural elements of the plaza’s green space. A feature water-wall is a literal expression of the buildings name, but more importantly provides an acoustic buffer form the outside city along with a sense of serenity and refreshment to the inhabitants of the building. ​