General Theological Seminary, Chelsea Enclave

The design for this residential building unites past and present, updating a palette of two centuries of architectural history to meet the modern era.

During the design development of Chelsea Enclave details like the texture, color and value of every brick and molding were researched extensively to create a seamless transition between old and new – a distinction already lauded by the NYC Landmarks Commission.

Susan T. Rodriguez, Design Partner

An historic landmark and one of the oldest seminaries in North America, General Theological Seminary provides a context of tradition, natural beauty and tranquility for the residences of Chelsea Enclave.

The landmarked enclave employs scale, palette and open space consistently. In facing the challenge of integrating housing into this site, the design presents a modern intervention respectful of its existing context.

The design references the scale and material quality of the Gothic-inspired architecture of the historic Chelsea Square precinct, employing a subtle interplay of brick, brownstone and glass to create a dialogue between old and new. Modern glass panels illuminate the textured brick façade, offering an outstanding architectural complement to the surrounding sanctuary.

Details

  • Year 2010
  • Location New York, NY
  • Size 170,000 GSF
  • Program Fifty-four residential units

Team

  • Design PartnerSusan T. Rodriguez
  • Management PartnerTimothy Hartung
  • Project Manager Damyanti Radheshwar
  • Design TeamSean Baumes, Lois Mate, Dona Orozova, Harry Park, Patricia Salas, Melissa Sarko, Daniel Stube
  • Associate ArchitectDaniel Frankfurt P.C. Engineers & Architects

Press

  • 2011"General Seminary to Honor Three Church Leaders, Dedicate New Library" (Episcopal News Service, 10/10/2011)
  • Stoelker, Tom. "Not Too Close" (The Architect's Newspaper, 6/21/2011)
  • 2010Harris, Elizabeth A. "A Fraternal Twin for a Seminary" (The New York Times, 1/3/2010)

Consultants

  • StructuralSilman
  • MEPWSP Flack + Kurtz, Inc.
  • CivilLangan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.
  • LightingBrandston Partnership, Inc.
  • AcousticsShen Milsom & Wilke
  • SpecificationsConstruction Specifications, Inc.
  • Code/Life SafetyDesign 2147
  • TheaterHarvey Marshall Berling Associates
  • PhotographyAislinn Weidele/Ennead Architects