Playwrights Horizon

Rehearsal Studios Renovation – 3rd Floor

Project at a Glance
Location

New York, NY

Architect

Marvel Architects

Project Type

Renovation

Project Overview

  • Fast-track occupied renovation in an occupied multi-tenant building
  • Extensive pre-planning and coordination with the project team to accommodate busy rehearsal and performance schedules
  • Logistical challenges related to rigging of mechanical equipment to the rooftop

Playwrights Downtown, located at 440 Lafayette Street, is the physical home to Playwrights Horizons Theater School, Resident Company Program, and Rehearsal Studios: three vibrant programs from which close interactions form a dynamic center for the creation and exploration of new work. It is one of the largest rehearsal spaces in downtown Manhattan, and it rents studio and performance space to over 1100 art organizations, theater artists, and companies annually.

The scope of work included a comprehensive overhaul of the studio spaces to enhance acoustic performance and operational efficiency. The project included the installation of acoustic paneling on walls and ceilings to soundproof a total of six studios, ensuring an undisturbed environment for creative work. Our team achieved this by incorporating three-inch built-up acoustic flooring with an underlayment of insulation and a wood finish, as well as STC-rated doors to isolate the studios acoustically. Each studio also now can be individually temperature controlled. The transformation of the 3rd-floor reception and lobby area into a new gathering space was a substantial aspect of the renovation, featuring fully controllable lighting systems, acoustic panels, new flooring, and finishes, with the lobby acoustically isolated from the studios. Consigli also installed a new VRV system complemented by an ERV and sound attenuators, significantly improving mechanical and acoustic performance. The logistics of delivering and installing a new condensing unit and dunnage on the roof were meticulously coordinated, taking into account the steel delivery and placement. The lighting system was upgraded to include new theatrical lighting with DMX controls, allowing for fully controlled dimming and individually addressed fixtures. The renovation extended to the bathrooms, with new piping and fixtures installed to accommodate usage during theater events.