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Harlem School of the Arts: Public Space Improvement

Structural engineering for the Herb Alpert Center improvements at one of New York City’s founding arts schools.

Project facts

Client / owner	Harlem School of the Arts
Location	Harlem, NY
Role	Structural engineer
Disciplines	Structural Design

Overview

Gedeon GRC Consulting performed structural engineering services for the Harlem School of the Arts (HSA) Public Space improvement project. As part of a team, Gedeon GRC provided enhancements to the HSA campus — one of New York City’s founding arts schools — for the Herb Alpert Center, presenting a welcoming and safe environment for children and the community alike.

While the improvement is dedicated to American musician and philanthropist Herb Alpert, HSA has built a school organization devoted to the success and well-being of a diverse future generation in the community. It was founded in 1964 by soprano Dorothy Maynor, who was succeeded in 1979 by mezzo-soprano Betty Allen as principal, when the 37,000-square-foot student arts facility was built to include dance, music, theater and community space.

Scope of services

The project consisted of renovations to the main entrance lobby and facade, including a “storefront” glazing system to bring more light and openness into the facility. Gedeon GRC designed the new feature stair between the first and second floors and performed a structural review of the storefront design. The main entrance terrace stair and ramp were reconfigured; structural framing for a mechanical screen was provided on the existing roof, and the roof slab was extended to support the sloping facade.

Gedeon GRC also provided construction administration and support services for this public space improvement project.