128E28 Lofts, the Luminaire, NoMad, NYC

A small building with great presence: how to create a modern AESTHETIC that respects the context

128 East 28th Street, NYC, Kips Bay, NoMad, NY 10026 Completion: 2024 Size: 28,000 SF Type: New 8 Stories Mixed Use

TRA studio’s Assistance : Architectural Design + Documentation, Interior Design, FFE, Lighting, Visualization

Recent News: interview with Caterina Roiatti discussing the 28th Street project

128E28 Lofts, The Luminaire

126-128 East 28th Street, NoMad, New York, NY 10026

The Challenges

128E28 is an innovative 8-story residential building strategically located at the intersection of NoMad and Kips Bay. This unique site comprises two zoning lots governed by distinct regulations. Our massing strategy maximizes permitted obstructions, effectively utilizing the tight zoning envelope, limited height restrictions, and narrow lot width to create spacious living environments.

The Site

While the zoning classifications present challenges, the site itself is classified as contextual and is situated between the historic masonry buildings of Park Avenue and the smaller walk-up tenements of “Indian Restaurant Row.” This area is currently undergoing revitalization, with new high-rise developments replacing outdated low-rise commercial structures. As a result, this neighborhood is a blend of historical charm and modern innovation.

The Massing Strategy

TRA's expertise in navigating the City’s zoning regulations has optimized the site’s potential, creating maximum value within beautifully designed envelopes. By fully utilizing the allowable envelope, the building steps back above the sixth floor to feature a shared terrace, while the duplex penthouse stands out as a private, elevated retreat.

The Design

The design pays homage to the area’s history, drawing inspiration from the large loft buildings to the West. The focus is on texture and complexity, achieved through the thoughtful shaping of volumes rather than superficial decoration. The façade aligns with our client’s vision for a contemporary, sustainable loft building that harmonizes with its surroundings.

The Façade

The angular geometry of the matte aluminum pilasters creates a vertical thrust, resonating with the decorative masonry of landmarked structures. The folded aluminum panels, distinct from the prevalent masonry, underscore the building's contemporary yet contextual aesthetic. All materials selected for both the exterior and interior are energy-efficient, sustainable, and recyclable, ensuring enhanced functionality and technical performance. The upper structure gracefully hovers above the commercial space, increasing visibility and scale for the two-level, skylighted retail area.

The Curtain Wall

The modern curtain wall, framed by the pilasters, connects with the new glass towers rising in the vicinity. Its modulation visually extends the building's height, creating an inhabitable thickened skin that includes bay windows and window seats. The angled glass planes reflect both the sky and the street below, enhancing views of the narrow street.

The glass wall assembly incorporates sustainable passive house tools, including airtight enclosures and thermal bridge-free construction, tested through full-scale mock-ups in collaboration with our façade consultants. This project also celebrates local craftsmanship, as the New York façade installer has collaborated with our design team on numerous projects.

The Interiors

Our design philosophy prioritizes enhancing the living experience, adapting to the evolving lifestyle demands. Each floor features only two full-floor loft-like units, maximizing space and natural light. Large windows, treated with film for comfort, provide cross ventilation, while passive house practices and attention to acoustics contribute to a mentally rejuvenating environment.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a serene lobby featuring a three-dimensional light wood screen, echoing the pilasters' design. Each unit connects to private outdoor spaces and shares recreational areas with stunning views of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings.

The versatile public space accommodates various living modes—be it lounging, entertaining, or working. The smart kitchen boasts two ovens and a statement stone oversized island, serving multiple purposes. The den functions as a quiet retreat or guest bedroom, acoustically separated from other areas.

Even the circulation space doubles as a gallery, featuring a museum-quality display system. Natural materials are used throughout, with a cool palette for East units and a warm palette for West units, creating a tranquil atmosphere away from the city’s chaos.

Sustainable Practices

Initiated in 2017, the design incorporates sustainable practices informed by the latest energy codes. Analytic tools such as acoustical reports and extensive mock-ups guided the process.

The glass wall assembly features passive house tools, ensuring airtightness and thermal efficiency. Climate control systems enhance mental wellness, while an energy recovery ventilator reclaims heat and moisture from exhaust air.

Our holistic and biophilic design connects residents to nature, providing access to outdoor spaces at every level. Additional sustainable features include a water retention blue-roof system, building-wide water filtration, and low-maintenance, recyclable materials.

The Catalytic Urban Effect: TRA’s Projects on East 28th Street

One successful project often leads to further development in rapidly changing areas. The modern aesthetic of 128E28 has already sparked interest in future developments along the street.

Our second project, 251-253 Fifth Avenue (1 East 28th), focuses on restoring a landmark while introducing a new tower in the heart of the Madison Square North Historic District. This complex will become a recognizable symbol of the area, visible from both the Park and the Empire State Building, further enhancing the neighborhood's architectural landscape.

#NoMad real estate, #Kips Bay apartments, #sustainable architecture, #modern loft design, #energy-efficient buildings, #urban revitalization, #luxury living spaces, #contemporary residential development

TEAM

Developer :Charlie Sinha-Architect:

TRA studio: Caterina Roiatti, Robert Traboscia, Winston Wolf

Interiors and lighting: TRA studio

Structural and SOE Engineer: Wexler Associates

MEP Engineer: Jack Green and Associates’

Zoning Consultant: Jam Consultants

Facade Consultant: FSA Associates

Elevator Consultant: Hubert H. Hayes

Acoustical Consultant: Jaffe Holden

NEWS

Built by New York, 2024 show at the Center for Architecture