Former Umbrella Factory Transforms into Luxury Condominium Building

The completion of the Umbrella Factory’s transformation has been completed in New York City. The former Embee Sunshade Company was refurbished into a mixed-use, high-end residential condominium building, successfully preserving the building’s historic charm. The project team included general contractor Gilbane Building Company, owner 722 Metropolitan LLC and architect Rawlings Architects PC. The Umbrella Factory’s unique façade, sustainable design and structural elements set it apart from many other buildings in New York City. The new residences feature large, exposed Southern Pine timber beams and approximately 90% of the building is wood, which spurred new challenges for the project team. All … Read more

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Lehigh University Awards $70M Contract to Redevelop Historic Clayton University Center in Pennsylvania

Lehigh University has awarded construction and development firm Skanska a $70-million contract to redevelop its historic Clayton University Center located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The 24-month project will encompass both the renovation and preservation of the existing Clayton University Center, while maintaining the historic nuances of the building. Key project elements include the delivery of utility upgrades, inclusive of new electrical service, mechanical systems and equipment, as well as the installation of a full fire protection system. Gathering spaces, offices, meeting rooms and lounge areas will undergo renovations and all doors, windows and the slate and copper roofing systems will be … Read more

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Technology, Innovative Strategies Key in Renovating Historic Sports Arena on Busy College Campus

By Jim Yechout Accommodating constraints on a jobsite is nothing new for superintendents. But the $110-million, 18-month renovation of Northwestern University’s Welsh-Ryan Arena, located in Evanston, Illinois, posed a few more challenges in one project than usual. Compact jobsite, surrounded by other highly active buildings, walkways and sports fields College activities, students, coaches and others that required access to all sides of the jobsite Close proximity to a residential neighborhood Fast-track construction timetable aimed at being fully operational for the 2018 basketball season Historic renovation with intricate and complex selective demolition Although building a new facility could potentially have been … Read more

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