Not all tales of restoration begin with ancient relics of bygone eras. In the heart of Brooklyn, nestled along the storied East 9th Street, lies a testament to this truth—a modern architectural gem awaiting its renewal under the meticulous care of M+S Architecture.

With each brick, each stone, and every inch of its facade, this building whispers tales of contemporary design and construction, yet its need for maintenance and repair remains as vital as any historic structure. In the unforgiving Northeast, where freeze-thaw cycles reign supreme, even new buildings succumb to the ravages of time without proper upkeep.

Our journey begins not in the annals of history, but with a discerning eye cast upon the present. A careful inspection reveals a tapestry of challenges demanding our unwavering attention. From addressing sealant deterioration at railing penetrations to rectifying improperly installed waterproofing on lintels, our restoration efforts are a testament to our commitment to preserving Brooklyn’s architectural heritage, no matter its age.

But our mission extends beyond mere repair. It’s about infusing this contemporary landmark with a newfound vitality that respects its past while embracing the promise of the future. To achieve this, we’ve curated a selection of premium products, meticulously chosen to ensure the integrity and longevity of our work.

As we lay the groundwork with CORROSION RESISTANT ALKYD PRIMER BY Benjamin Moore, our restoration journey unfolds, guided by the promise of SIKAGUARD 570 ELASTOMERIC FACADE COATING from Sika Corporation and Glen-Gery MORTAR BLEND for brick mortar. These products, renowned for their durability and stunning finishes, set the stage for a transformation unlike any other.

And yet, our pursuit of excellence knows no bounds. With the meticulous precision of SIKAFLEX CONSTRUCTION SEALANT, also from Sika USA Corporation, we seal the bonds of our restoration efforts, ensuring a seamless integration that withstands the tests of time and tide.

Join us as we chronicle every triumph and challenge along this epic journey on our blog. From the innovative solutions that define our approach to the meticulous craftsmanship that breathes new life into Brooklyn’s skyline, witness the evolution of architectural preservation unfold before your very eyes.

Step into the heart of Manhattan and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history woven into the fabric of this 54-unit post-war cooperative completed in 1955. Its prime West Village address puts it near the Hudson River, the High Line, Pier 45, Abington Square Park, the Whitney Museum, and the top shopping, nightlife, and restaurants of the Meatpacking District.

Yet, beneath its facade of timeless grandeur lies a narrative of resilience and endurance. Over the decades, the building has withstood the tests of time, weathering the elements with stoic grace. However, the passage of years has not left it unscathed. Cracks spiderweb across weathered bricks, testament to the relentless march of time and freeze -thaw cycles. Steel window lintels, once sturdy and resolute, now show signs of wear, hinting at the toll of years gone by.

Enter M+S Architecture, a beacon of innovation and expertise in the realm of architectural restoration. With a keen eye for detail and a reverence for the building’s storied past, our team has embarked on a monumental journey to breathe new life into this beloved building.

Every crack, every blemish tells a story—a story of decades gone by, of lives lived and memories made. And it is our mission to honor these stories, to preserve the legacy of this architectural icon for generations to come.
Our approach is meticulous, our dedication unwavering. We identify and address each deficiency, ensuring that no aspect of the building’s heritage is lost to the ravages of time. Utilizing time-honored craftsmanship and materials, we employ products such as Glen-Gery MORTAR BLEND and JAHN M90 PRECAST PATCHING MORTAR by Cathedral Stone Products, Inc.. These premium materials serve as the cornerstone of our restoration efforts, seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern resilience.

But our commitment to excellence doesn’t end there. We go above and beyond, employing “SIKAFLEX CONSTRUCTION SEALANT” from Sika USA to fortify the structural integrity and waterproofing of the restored areas. It’s a testament to our unwavering dedication to quality and longevity, ensuring that our restoration work will stand the test of time.

🌟 Today- thanks to funding from the M+S team, 10 students were awarded new uniforms to support them in their educational journey 🌟

Education is a fundamental human right. It serves as a powerful catalyst for development and plays a crucial role in alleviating poverty, improving health, gender equality and achieving peace and stability. At the heart of social progress, education is the cornerstone of equality and inclusion.

💡 By empowering people, they access better employment opportunities, raise their income levels, improve health outcomes, and drive poverty reduction efforts. Globally, the impact is profound: hourly earnings increase by 9% for each additional year of schooling.

🏫 At Mayta + Sebastian Architecture, we are deeply committed to collaborating to ensure that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have access to quality education. With the support of our clients and our team, we are making the dreams of boys and girls from the most remote communities of Acolla – Peru come true.

Together, let us continue to build a better future by investing in education and empowering the next generation.

The M+S team, led by Luis Enrique Villar Moya embarked on a monumental mission: to carry out a study of Hacienda “El Fortín”, a bastion of history in Lima, Peru. More than a simple symbolic gesture, this action represents a firm commitment to the preservation of our cultural heritage. During two exhaustive visits, every detail of the building was meticulously documented, from the imposing towers to the most humble rooms, with the help of laser scanning and cutting-edge drones, which became the compass that guided the path to restoration.

Using DJI drones for detailed photogrammetry, the team captured stunning aerial images, allowing for an unprecedented level of detail in the three-dimensional reconstruction of “El Fortín”. These high-resolution images provided invaluable information on the condition of the structure, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of restoration needs.

The result of this process was the creation of a three-dimensional model, a time capsule that allows us to delve into the past and project ourselves into the future with unprecedented clarity. However, this 3D modeling is only the first step in a long journey that will culminate in a comprehensive assessment of restoration needs. Every crack, every sign of deterioration, will be carefully analyzed to draw up plans that will return “El Fortín” to its lost splendor.

“El Fortín”, a witness to the fight for liberation and home to African slaves who forged their greatness with sweat and blood, deserves to be rescued from oblivion. It is a call to action to protect and revitalize our cultural heritage, reminding us that the past is not lost but patiently awaits its rediscovery and restoration for future generations.

#ElFortín #CulturalHeritage #History #DJI #3DModeling #Preservation #Lima #Peru #RestorationEfforts #bimtechnology #propertymanagers #propertyowners #bimmodeling #nycarchitecture #nycarchitects #HistoricRestoration #PreservingThePast #BuildingRevival #InnovationInRestoration #BIMConsulting #AECIndustry #NewTechnologies #Efficiency #MaytaSebastianArchitecture #laserscantobim #3Dmodels #architecture

Attention all building owners and stakeholders! If a Qualified Engineer Wall Inspector (QEWI) determines your building is unsafe, immediate action is crucial.
🔴 Step 1: Notify the DOB
The Department of Buildings (DOB) must be notified promptly with a Notifications of Unsafe Condition Report (FISP3), commonly known as FISP 3. The DOB conducts follow-up inspections to review reported conditions.
🏢 Step 2: Owner Obligations
Owners are obligated to install protection (netting/sidewalk shed) to ensure pedestrian safety and restrict access to unsafe areas along the building’s facades. Failure to do so may result in violations and penalties.
⏰ Timeline for Unsafe Buildings
Unsafe conditions must be corrected within 90 days. If extensions are needed, the QEWI may submit for FISP2 filings, granted at the commissioner’s discretion.
🔧 FISP Extensions
Extensions require a comprehensive submission including premises securing measures, repair program details, estimated repair time, permit requirements, owner affidavit, and specified fees.
🏗️ Unsafe Repair Programs
Repair programs must be designed by a registered design professional (RDP) and filed with the DOB. It’s recommended to work closely with the initial QEWI for cohesive progress and documentation.
🛠️ Repairs Completed? What’s Next?
After repairs, the QEWI must inspect the premises within two weeks and file a detailed amended report with the DOB. Upon acceptance, a wall certificate must be displayed in the building lobby until the next FISP reporting cycle.
Ensuring building safety is paramount for public well-being and regulatory compliance. Act swiftly and diligently to address unsafe conditions!

#BuildingSafety #DOBCompliance #ConstructionSafety #FISP#UNSAFE 🏗️🚧#HistoricRestoration #PreservingThePast #BuildingRevival #InnovationInRestoration #AECIndustry #NewTechnologies #Efficiency #MaytaSebastianArchitecture #laserscantobim #3Dmodels #NYCarchitecture #engineering #team #bimtechnology #hiring #building #workhardplayhard #dreamteam #bim #buildingowners #propertymanagers #propertyowners #nycarchitecture #nycarchitects #womeninconstruction #dowhatyoulove

Brought in by the producers of HGTV “Home Inspector Joe” and in collaboration with Sasha Marie Interiors LLC M+S had a blast learning the behind the scene secrets of making a TV show, while expertly guiding the design and construction team in the Structural requirements to bring to fruition their open concept dream home.
🔨 From start to finish, our team poured their expertise into every detail, ensuring that the space not only met but exceeded expectations. And now, the results speak for themselves! 🛠️
💫 One of the most remarkable features of this renovation is the removal of a load-bearing wall between the kitchen and dining room, opening up the space and creating a seamless flow between the two areas. The once-separated rooms now blend harmoniously, inviting guests to gather and enjoy the space together.
✨ In the kitchen, sleek new appliances, cabinetry, and lighting fixtures breathe new life into the space, while the Livingroom boasts a chic new workspace area complete with stylish floating shelves. The transition from tile flooring in the kitchen to warm wood flooring in the dining room adds depth and character to the space, creating a sense of cohesion and warmth. 🌳
💡 And let’s talk about the ambiance! Thanks to the interior design talents of Sasha Marie D., Finishing touches and stunning new lighting fixtures cast a soft, inviting glow, setting the perfect atmosphere for cooking, dining, and entertaining. ✨
🎉 We couldn’t be prouder of the final result and are thrilled to invite you to take a closer look at the transformation! Swipe through the images to see the stunning before-and-after shots, and be sure to let us know what you think in the comments below. 📸

#MSRenovation #KitchenDesign #DiningRoomMakeover #PineKnollRoad #MamaroneckNY #HomeinspectorJoe #HistoricRestoration #PreservingThePast #BuildingRevival #InnovationInRestoration #BIMConsulting #AECIndustry #NewTechnologies #Efficiency #MaytaSebastianArchitecture #laserscantobim #3Dmodels #architecture #engineering #NYCBuildingManagement #team #bimtechnology #workhardplayhard #dreamteam #bim #buildingowners #propertymanagers #propertyowners #bimmodeling #nycarchitecture #nycarchitects #womeninconstruction

🌍 Continuing with our team’s cultural exchange program, we’re thrilled to announce that our Principal Architect, Raul Mayta, RA – QEWI, had the opportunity to visit our Lima office and collaborate closely with the team. Together, they explored innovative solutions to address ongoing challenges in our Lima projects and identified areas where they can lend support to our NYC team’s day-to-day project tasks.

🏗️ Currently, our team in Peru is deeply engaged in researching materials to enhance thermal performance and is committed to embracing sustainability by integrating eco-friendly materials into our projects. Stay tuned for updates on our exciting research endeavors!

🙏 We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such a dedicated and passionate team. Looking forward to many more fruitful collaborations in the future!

#TeamWork #CulturalExchange #Sustainability #Innovation

Today, we want to emphasize the critical importance of utilizing the right tools for project surveying. Recently, our valued clients embarked on a sunroom installation project at their residence, entrusting a turn-key fabricator with the task, based on the design intent provided by M+S.

Unfortunately, errors in manual field surveying by the fabricators led to the misalignment of the pergola structure on-site. What might seem like minor discrepancies in dimensions can quickly escalate when components are brought together, resulting in unsafe joineries that deviate from the shop drawings.

Upon reviewing the errors and field conditions, it became evident that litigation was necessary to find a resolution. Ultimately, our team relayed information for our laser scan survey, and based on accurate field dimensions obtained by our team, devised a solution involving the installation of additional steel joinery members to ensure the structural integrity of the sunroom.

While our clients can now enjoy their sunroom in the delightful spring weather, it’s crucial to acknowledge that much of the distress they endured could have been avoided if proper laser scanning tools had been utilized by the sunroom fabricator, rather than relying on hand measurement tools during the initial surveys.

This case underscores the paramount importance of precision tools in project surveying. Investing in advanced technologies not only enhances accuracy but also safeguards against costly errors and ensures the successful execution of construction projects.

Let’s learn from this experience and prioritize the use of the right tools to achieve excellence in every project endeavor.

#ProjectSurveying #PrecisionTools #Construction #LaserScanning #EngineeringExcellence #buildingowners #propertymanagers #propertyowners #HistoricRestoration  #PreservingThePast #BuildingRevival #InnovationInRestoration #BIMConsulting #MaytaSebastianArchitecture #nyc #team #dreamteam #HBIM

At M + S, we believe in the power of cultural exchange and learning from each other’s experiences. Recently, our teams in New York and Peru embarked on a journey of knowledge sharing and collaboration.

We were thrilled to host Ana Vesho, Assoc. AIA from our New York team in Peru, where she immersed herself in the vibrant culture and rich heritage of this beautiful country. From savoring the delights of Peruvian gastronomy to delving into its fascinating history and marveling at its breathtaking architecture, Ana had an unforgettable experience!

Now, we’re extending an invitation to all those who are curious and adventurous at heart. Who else is interested in exploring the wonders of Peru firsthand? Let’s embark on this enriching journey together!

🌎✈️ #MPlusS #CulturalExchange #PeruAdventure #DiscoverPeru #Architecture #Gastronomy #History #TeamCollaboration