Scope
The property extends block-to-block and avenue-to-avenue, with 280 units in two nearly-identical buildings. The existing buildings are situated off-center on the lot, creating an awkward 60-ft. rear yard. Site challenges included complicated zoning issues, a sloping site, parking constraints, as well as the impact of an addition on the existing structure. After seeing our success on another project in Queens, the client retained us to do an investigation of the site’s development potential. Two other architects had previously assessed the property and determined they could only build a small, 30-unit building on the corner of the lot.
Approach
With every project, we know there is a puzzle to solve and that anything is possible. We carefully navigate the Zoning and Building Code, which is often misunderstood, and involve the Department of Buildings in our analysis to ensure compliance. For this project, we obtained three “pre-considerations” from the Department of Buildings to clarify zoning issues that could potentially affect the feasibility of the project later on.
Impact
Where other consultants saw only a large backyard and an unsightly view of the back of a building, EDG planned a completely new structure. With our expertise in the Zoning and Building Code, we designed a compliant addition that spanned over 600 ft. in length. With two new building segments, our investigation enabled the addition of 180 units to the property. Ultimately over 150 units will be built. In addition to providing planning and architectural schematic documents, we are the structural engineers and owner’s representative for the project.