#RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE PROJECTS
Orchard Street
Architects Kathryn Ogawa and Gilles Depardon note that Wabi-Sabi – the concept of finding beauty in imperfection and profundity in nature – influenced the design of this 11-story building in Manhattan’s Lower East Side.
Imperfection here is clearly found in the Cor-Ten steel walls that cover the party walls and touch the sidewalk in the front of the building. The architects answered some questions about this building on Orchard Street.
What were the circumstances of receiving the commission for this project?
This project was the result of an integral developer/design/build team. (Architect/Contractor/Developer venture)Can you describe your design process for the building?
The building was designed with input from the team and developer from initial schematic design through the end of construction.
How does the completed building compare to the project as designed? Were there any dramatic changes between the two and/or lessons learned during construction?
The apartment mix was radically changed during construction – Going from ‘Master One Bedrooms’ to mostly ‘Two Bedroom Full Floor’ units.
How does the building compare to other projects in your office, be it the same or other building types?
The building was designed as a high-end residential unit not unlike many of the townhouses Ogawa | Depardon has previously completed.
Concept Rendering - Orchard St facade
How does the building relate to contemporary architectural trends, be it sustainability, technology, etc.?
We intended for this building to be timeless and to find its place in the Lower East Side through the craft-like quality of its materials and detailing.
Concept Rendering – Orchard St Terrace
Are there any new/upcoming projects in your office that this building’s design and construction has influenced?
We are now using many of the principles and lessons learned from the “rain screen” exterior cladding system in a few of our smaller residential projects.
