The Gallery for International Naïve Art (GINA), which resided on the UWS from 2007-2011, showcased the work of amateur artists, particularly those from South America and Eastern Europe. Fradkin & McAlpin designed the NYC branch of the Tel-Aviv based gallery to reflect the natural, simple elegance of the art it housed. Bamboo floors and an integrated lighting system created an inviting atmosphere while a series of cantilevered dividers projected from the walls, providing an intimate experience for the visitor while nearly doubling the gallery’s wallspace and keeping the floor clear for visual continuity throughout the space.

The conversion of the building’s dirt-floor cellar storage was critical to the success of the project. Fradkin & McAlpin’s design for the basement transformed it into a cohesive extension, as well-appointent and welcoming as the ground floor gallery, more than doubling the site’s existing usable space.