Riverhouse, One Rockefeller Park

New York, NY, USA

Photo © Jeff Goldberg/Esto

Drawing © Ennead Architects

Photo © Jeff Goldberg/Esto

Architects: ennead architects

Year: 2009

This 264-unit condominium building establishes a new paradigm in sustainable development as the first residential use of double-glass wall technology in the United States. The double-glass curtainwall of the west facade defines the building’s identity: it exhibits a sense of depth, linking it to the rhythms and scale of the masonry construction, while at the same time displays the tautness of a modern glass tower. This duality ultimately informs the identity of the building and the glass wall makes a clear statement of the building’s green intentions. The design surpasses Battery Park City Authority’s rigorous sustainability requirements and integrates environmentally responsible materials, green roofs, progressive filtration and recycling technologies. The U-shape of the building’s footprint was prescribed as well to accommodate Teardrop Park South, an extension of the successful Teardrop Park on the adjacent site to the north. Riverhouse will be the greenest residential building on the East Coast and may achieve LEED Platinum certification.