How IBEX helped the Architecture Center flourish.

This month, the AIA NY Chapter Center for Architecture celebrates its second anniversary. A hub for anyone interested in design and construction, or New York in general, the Center promotes a broader appreciation of the influence of architecture in shaping this great city. The exhibitions and events the Center hosts foster an exchange and collaboration among members of the real estate community. The Center also explores cutting-edge topics, technological innovations and other issues concerning the built environment.

The Center is home to the AIA New York Chapter, the Center for Architecture Foundation, the New York Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects and the Structural Engineering Association of New York. Since it opened in October 2003, it has hosted a great number of exhibitions and events, including the AIA New York Design Awards, New York NOW, Architecture Magazine's P/A Awards and numerous architecture showcases.

It was a privilege for IBEX Construction to help shape this important venue for the AIA New York Chapter, the oldest and largest component of the American Institute of Architects, by spearheading the renovation of the space two years ago.

IBEX began construction in March 2003, following a competitive contractor selection process which included submissions by over 40 construction companies. Andrew Berman, of New York, was the architect. The 12,000 s/f public resource center officially opened on October 7 and is located at 536 LaGuardia Place, just two blocks south of Washington Square Park. With multiple exhibition galleries and conference rooms, an auditorium, library, workshop and lounge for informal meetings, the Center provides critical resources for the general public and seasoned professionals alike.

Additions to the site included a new storefront, allowing for a clear view from street level down two stories, as well as a new elevator, featuring a new cab and doors. The transparency and the accessibility that the new storefront represents strengthens the public outreach effort. The project required converting three floors, two of which were below street level, in an eight story, fully-occupied residential co-op building.

To complete this unconventional design, IBEX broke nearly every rule in retail construction. The firm removed parts of the existing floor slabs at street level and the floor below it, opening up three floors, including the basement, to natural light. The main floors are below street level and we created a 'reverse' atrium effect.

The Center is also equipped with two 1,250-foot-deep geothermal wells, which are used for the HVAC system. The wells recycle water and save energy simultaneously--a technology currently used at only 50 sites around the country. The Center's geothermal system is the only publicly accessible in the region.

In the last two years, the Center has established itself as a vital part of New York's design community. IBEX is pleased to have played a role in bringing the center's vision to life, and expects that it will continue to be a central hub for New Yorkers involved in the built environment.

ANDY FRANKL

PRESIDENT

IBEX CONSTRUCTION