Sometimes the most respectful intervention is a contrasting one. Our renovation at Sr Jane Manor revitalized a supportive housing building located on a hospital campus in Staten Island, originally constructed in the 1930s. Most of the original brick, carved stone, and terra cotta details were still in place as we set out to completely reconfigure the interior space and install all new mechanical systems in the existing building. The new interior space is finished in industrial, abstract materials – metals, terrazzo, and acrylics – which spill out at the entry, welcoming residents and visitors to the new facility.

We wanted to improve the approach and entry experience to the building, which is surrounded by parking and accessed via a driveway. A new ramp and stairs, with a wedge of plantings in front, provide a buffer to the roadway and a more comfortable approach for pedestrians. An aluminum awning provides shelter and a marker of the entry point, over custom stainless steel and glass doors which allude to the original Art Deco ornament of the building. Soft lighting of the plantings and façade gives a sense of security and comfort for residents to socialize outside on warm evenings. 

For many residents of Sr Jane Manor, their time here is a stepping-stone to independent living. Having the support of their social workers is key to their success. Common lounges and dining areas host structured group activities, but we also calibrated the central hallway to facilitate more casual interactions – small recesses around doorways allow for easy sight lines and a quick conversation. Bright colors are used throughout the interior to create a luxe, calm atmosphere. It would be easy for this building to feel institutional – instead we created a chic hostel vibe.