1149 Broadway – New York, USA | Simple.Architecture

The building on 1149 Broadway has a long history. At the end of the 19th century it was a confectionery factory and later it became the headquarters of a local automobile brand. After a considerable period of abandon in the 20th century it now has to be re-established in order to be rented once again.

The building plan is narrow and long, which makes the interior quite dark. The only natural light comes from the windows on the main façade and the small openings towards the backyard. The client’s will is to transform the ground floor into a piano bar which will perfectly integrate the surrounding artistic neighborhood. The upper floors will become an office for a local industrial design brand. The project uses very few materials in order to keep the interior clean and as much spacious as possible. The concrete used to reinforce the two main structural walls gives a sense of solidity. In the piano bar it is emphasized by the use of hidden light coming from both the floor and the ceiling. In the offices it is left natural and visible as well. Floorings are made in white self-leveling concrete that reflect better the natural light. Ceilings are also tinted in white to improve the luminosity of the spaces.