This “boutique” office building is in Long Island City, New York, an area undergoing rapid gentrification due to ongoing redevelopment along the East River. Avenue

The elements, consisting of indoor parking, conference rooms, offices, and office support systems, have been arranged on this flag-shaped lot to take advantage of views of the adjoining public park at the rear.

The conceptual design process was drawn directly from the client’s needs as a company specializing in securities consulting.

The facade communicates this quality through modern building technologies, such as a sloping glass curtain wall and a tiered synthetic stucco facade. The divided central glass wall, individual windows, and stepping-back of the facade give the impression of a solid, grounded building. The use of these elements gives a monumental scale to what is otherwise a minor building. The austere and simplified design helped to complete this 6,000-square-foot building in less than 12 months at the cost of $80/SF. Similarly inspired designs are beginning to be constructed nearby.

As the neighborhood continues to develop, the building has contributed to the local community by stretching the boundaries of the typical brick office building. One neighbor said, “The building is private, but the facade is public.”