Completed in August 2023, 160 Water Street stands out as New York City’s biggest office-to-residency conversions in recent years. The project, also known as Pearl House, transformed 525,000 square feet of office space into a new residential building of 588 rental units. Above All Storefronts was proud to play a key part in the building’s façade installation.
Project Details
For this project, Above All Storefronts supplied and installed several key architectural systems to support the project’s design and performance goals. Our scope of work included:
Kawneer 1600 System Curtainwall
For the main façade, we used the Kawneer 1600 system. This versatile curtainwall solution is designed to strengthen a building’s performance while giving it a sleek appearance. The Kawneer 1600 system is also known for having excellent thermal insulation. This is crucial for meeting modern building codes and improving energy efficiency.
Metro Wall Window Wall and Glass Vents
We also supplied and installed Metro Wall window wall systems with integrated glass vents. The window walls allow natural light to seep in, enhancing the building’s exterior and creating a more open interior. The operable vents also provide residents with fresh air circulation, making the apartments more comfortable to live in.
Custom ACM and Plate Panels
To complete the building’s façade, Above All Storefronts installed aluminum composite material (ACM) and plate panels designed by CAM architectural. These panels create an exterior finish that’s easy to maintain. They also complement the glass exterior and give the building a modern look.
Despite some delays in manufacturing, our shop team was able to stay on schedule by pre-glazing all window units before shipping them. This crucial step made the installation process more efficient and saved valuable time.
On the ground, Jonathan, Bob, and the rest of our field team members managed a complex jobsite with multiple leading edges and limited staging areas. Their ability to coordinate logistics, work within tight footprints, and maintain safety standards was an important part of the project’s success.
Project Impact
The curtainwall, window wall, vents, and custom panel systems were an essential part of transforming 160 Water Street into the modern residential property it is today. Our materials helped create a building that meets modern design and performance standards. The building also features an energy-efficient façade customized for residential use.
This project also highlights the broader trend of converting underused or abandoned commercial spaces into housing in New York City. In a place where housing is scarce and rents are high, transformations like these add new life to these aging buildings. By upgrading its façade to current standards, Above All Storefronts met the client’s vision.
Learn More About Our Capabilities
160 Water Street is one of many large-scale projects that the Above All Storefronts team has been a part of. From hospitals to residential properties, we understand the challenges of working on different construction sites and want to deliver solutions that work. If you have a project in mind, please contact us at (631) 627-3535 to learn more about how our team can help.
