Waterside Plaza is a four tower residential complex built in the 1970’s as middle-class housing under the Mitchell-Lama statute. It holds an iconic, but somewhat isolated presence on the east side of Manhattan.

As part of a larger overall update and improvement, Michielli + Wyetzner Architects were asked to create a new event space to draw residents and visitors with a program of lectures and performances. The new facility contains an auditorium with loose seating for 70 people with a moveable glass wall that allows it to expand to 140 people. In addition, there is a bar and lounge area with a fireplace and computer tables, and a conference room for private meetings. Combining rigorous technical requirements with a wide variety of programmatic elements the space is designed to be flexible and refined. 

The project emphasizes light, acoustics and materials to create a welcoming and refined environment that is a backdrop for a variety of program uses including quiets study, socializing, banquets or performance.      

Equipped with a state of the art audiovisual system, the lecture space was soundproofed with double wall and ceiling configurations to screen out sound from the residential apartments above and the adjacent FDR Drive to the west.

An illuminated vestibule distinguishes the event space from the surrounding retail storefronts on the plaza level. Clad in stainless steel panels on the interior, terrazzo floors and acoustical wood paneling combine with a metal baffle ceiling to provide a warm and welcoming environment for this community gathering space.

Awards and Publications:
2019       AIANY Interiors Speed Presentation Selection