BKSK architects, the firm responsible for the renovation of the historic Olmsted Center at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, completed the first phase of the project last week.
The center was used as the administrative building for the World’s Fair in 1964 and 1965, and continues to serve as the headquarters for the Parks department. It was named in honor of Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr., who designed the landscape architecture for some of America’s most notable park systems, including Central Park in Manhattan and Prospect Park in Brooklyn.
In a release from BKSK architects, they outlined the specifics of work completed so far:
“Phase I of the 60,000 square foot project includes a 10,000 square foot addition, which features distinctive exposedsteel honoring the original structure’s design along with abundant daylight and park views. The Capital Projects Division of the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation now also benefits from several new offices, a new public procurement/bidding room, and other new meeting rooms. Notably, staff members remained at Olmsted Center throughout Phase I construction, ensuring business continuity.”
The second and final phase of the project is scheduled for wrap up next year, and includes installation of raised water channels to ensure the space will be protected from floodwaters in the future.