Pre-Construction - New Hudson Facades

In the simplest of terms, we’re builders, and we love architecture. That’s why we strive to work with the top architects, engineers, contractors and developers working today. Collectively, we’ve been privileged to build some of the most renowned and challenging facades in the business over the past 30 years, and with few exceptions, the success of the job owed directly to the robustness of the design assist phase, when the most crucial design and cost decisions are made. Our goal when engaging on any project is – first and foremost – to preserve the architect’s design intent, and to do so in a way that works within the project budget AND is something that can be constructed and reasonably maintained for the life of the building.

The Four Main Benefits of a Strong Design Assist Process:

1- Engineering Feasibility & Custom System Design

While the basic chassis of our system remains constant, every job we do requires that our system adapt to the architect’s design. We thrive on highly custom, engineered-to-order projects that require adaptation and innovation.

2- Continuous Cost Monitoring

As the design phase progresses, NHF provides conceptual budgets at every specified design milestone. Cost-saving (i.e., value engineering) proposals are presented at each interval.

3- Samples & Mock-Ups

As appropriate and stipulated by the project team, NHF builds mock-ups from the table top to the job site.

4- Input On Site Logistics and Means & Methods

NHF engages with the construction manager as early as possible to provide input on trucking & deliveries, loading dock logistics, material hoisting, equipment requirements, coordination & sequencing with other trades.

55 Hudson Yards Visual Mock-Ups

Cost Savings Solutions:

NHF will provide a roster of cost saving ideas. As a result of our engagement in design assist phases in our work, we would like to highlight the following solutions that maintained design integrity and met budgetary constraints.

15 Hudson Yards Façade Geometry Rationalization

The native geometry of the tower, which morphs from a rectangular plan at the base to a four-lobed “clover” at the top, resulted in roughly 80% unique, trapezoidal curtainwall modules. NHF devised a way to make 80% of the curtainwall modules rectangular and repeatable. To create the appearance of a soft, morphing surface, Diller Scofidio’s native surface geometry is curved using the principle of cold-warping, 100% of curtain wall panels in the “morph” are built flat, with one corner “warped” into position in the field.

15 Hudson Yards False Louver Design

NHF developed a custom false louver infill. This allowed the project to eliminate 29,000 sq-ft of expensive active, blanked-off, insulated louvers, and replace that with a standard-depth infill at a fraction of the cost and no negative aesthetic impact.

35 Hudson Yards Flat Wall With Stone Fins

NHF worked closely with SOM to produce a flat wall design with projecting stone fins, all while maintaining minimal depth from face of glass to inside back of mullion.

55 Hudson Yards Corner Features & Textured Exterior Paint

NHF devised a way to create the corner nodal shapes from aluminum castings, as opposed to other more costly fabrication techniques. NHF worked with PPG to develop a custom color, textured powder coat that faithfully simulates a wrought iron aesthetic without resorting to costly hand or machine finishing techniques.

Together we will find the perfect harmony among aesthetic, performance, and value in your building’s façade.

Pre-Construction Images:

prev next