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COOKFOX

COOKFOX

New York, NY

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641 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS

When COOKFOX outgrew a previous location in Cooper Square, we saw our next office space as an opportunity to reflect our culture and convey a vision for the future. Guided by a passion for design excellence and a deep commitment to sustainability, we wanted to create the best possible work environment—one that would inspire our designers to produce their best work. Accomplishing this would mean preserving the studio-based spirit of the firm while challenging ourselves to “walk the walk” of green design that we advocate to all our clients.Today, our LEED-CI Platinum certified office space at 641 Avenue of the Americas is a light-filled studio and showcase for sustainable design. Located in the penthouse of a former department store in the Ladies’ Mile Historic District, the space features an open floor plan, 14-foot ceilings, and original details from its circa-1902 dining room. Daylight fills the interior from several directions, with a sweeping curve of nine-foot windows offering wide-angle views of the Manhattan skyline and Empire State Building.A defining feature of the new office – and a strong biophilic element – is a 3,600 square foot roof. This restorative green plane, visible from nearly every workplace, is planted with drought-tolerant, low-maintenance sedum species. The green roof reduces stormwater runoff, decreases the building’s cooling load, and fights the heat island effect that burdens the city’s energy infrastructure. The roof also features four raised planting beds, integrating a “Three Sisters” garden of beans, corn, and squash as well as an apiary with over 50,000 Italian bees.The first LEED Platinum certified project in New York, our office incorporates integrative design to produce a healthy, productive work environment. A daylight-based lighting scheme uses zone controls and daylight-dimming fixtures to save energy while highlighting the ornate detail of the original columns and coffered ceiling. An upgraded HVAC system, operable windows and low-VOC materials together provide natural ventilation and protect indoor air quality year-round. Advanced water-saving features, including waterless urinals, dual-flush toilets, and sensor-activated lavatory faucets, reduce water consumption by over 40%.The interior design palette was selected for everyday durability with priority given to natural materials—these selections act as a “learning lab” for a range of local, eco-friendly materials. The office is actively used to advocate for the long-term sustainability goals of Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC by promoting the benefits of green roofs in New York and served as the backdrop for the Mayor’s re-election campaign. COOKFOX also facilitates regular tours of the office and hosts a monthly environmental lecture series featuring distinguished scientists, authors, and filmmakers from around the world.In a district where the “commercial palaces” of past generations mingle with the creative industries of today, this office space represents a new kind of professional workplace for a sustainable, urban future.

 
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Status: Built
Location: New York, NY, US