On November 15th, 2024, the American Institute of Architects – Central New York Chapter hosted their annual Celebration of Architecture at the Palladian Hall in Syracuse, NY. The event acknowledged 15 Architectural Design Award Winners and celebrates the achievements in design excellence by Architects in Central New York. They honor the Architects, Consultants, & Clients who work together to create and enhance our building environments. SMSA Architects was the recipient of two Awards: A Citation for Design & Award of Merit.

A Citation for Design was awarded for the Facade & Vestibule Renovation of National Abstract / North Search, Inc. located on S. State Street in Lowville, NY. This award represents exemplary achievement in a specific aspect of a project.

COPYRIGHT PROTECTED IMAGE

The existing ground floor Façade & Vestibule of the three-story building posed Itself to be an eyesore and building envelope failure. Life Safety concerns were also to be addressed as access to the second floor was non-compliant with the building code. While no original photos or documents of the building were available for reference, the owners’ intentions were to restore the glory of the ‘old main street’ look and complement the façades of neighboring buildings on the block. There is a large prominence of brick, stone, wood trim, and tall slender windows within the existing context of the block. The final design incorporated similar materials, showcasing the existing brick and stone sills of the upper floors, while boasting a new wood trim, windows, and entrance door façade on the ground floor.

 The former vestibule portrayed an uncomfortable and unwelcoming small space. The newly designed vestibule provided improved stair access and accessibility to the second-floor offices and a renovated first-floor waiting area of the first-floor business office. Structural improvements were also completed to eliminate the low ceilings and create a welcoming reception room with an abundance of natural daylight from the new façade windows.

The team included:

 Architect: SMSA Architects, PLLC

S. Michael Steiger, Architect / Principal, 

Melinda Green, Architect / Principal

Maria Internicola, Architectural Drafter

 Client: Dennis Mastacusa, Owner of Building & Company

North Search, Inc. / National Abstract

General Contractor: Cedarcrest Construction

Tim Pierce, Owner 

 Photographer: Full Frame Works Photography

Joseph T. Meirose IV

 

PLATINUM INVESTORS