Portfolio:Residential

243-253 East 78th Street, NYC

Project Details

ADDRESS: 243-253 East 78th Street, NYC
OWNER/DEVELOPER: Copperwood Real Estate
ARCHITECT/LEAD: BKSK Architects

Project Key Features

The project included the gut renovation and merging of two existing 6-story plus cellar apartment buildings into a single multi-family residential building, as depicted on preliminary building plans prepared by BKSK dated 7/13/15. A new seventh story plus a roof terrace were proposed to be part of the top-level apartments. The existing center light shaft between the buildings was partially infilled to incorporate a new elevator accessing all floors. There was a retail area component on the first floor of approximately 1,200 sf. The total building was seven stories (± 38,000 sf) and was not considered a “high-rise” as defined by the NYCBC.

The retail component was designed as a “Warm Dark Shell” with all utility and system provisions required to obtain a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO). The project included a full MEP/FP fit-out of all residential and retail spaces, ensuring that all necessary mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems were in place and functional to meet regulatory and safety standards.

Throughout the renovation, careful consideration was given to maintaining the historical integrity of the buildings while integrating modern amenities and systems to provide a comfortable and efficient living environment for residents. The addition of the roof terrace and the new elevator significantly enhanced the building’s functionality and appeal. Furthermore, the project achieved Energy Star certification, demonstrating a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability in the building’s design and operation.