American Copper Buildings
Overview
These copper-clad residential towers rise 47 and 40 stories above the East River. A glass skybridge connects the asymmetrical buildings, housing amenities that include a 75-foot lap pool, a bar and lounge, and a fitness center.
Challenges
Located on the waterfront, the development was one of the first that had to meet post-Sandy requirements for flood zone properties. In addition, the dual towers required close coordination throughout the foundation excavation. The commercial space on the bottom floors created issues for the amenity areas in the residential section, and the swimming pool in the skybridge triggered Department of Health oversight.
Solutions
At the start of the project, Metropolis worked with the design team to secure a separate approval for the new flood-zone requirements. While the foundation for the complex site presented several hurdles, the project team guided the client in coordinating with the Department of Buildings Excavation Unit. Code and zoning experts secured determinations to resolve issues arising from the building’s status as a mixed-use property, as well as other challenges related to the pool.