The Morgan Library & Museum

Sciame was the Construction Manager responsible for the construction and extensive renovation of a 150,000 SF multi-building complex including a new 75,000 SF, multi-level structure that ties three Landmark buildings together. The design included a below-grade vault and auditorium while above-grade is a steel and glass structure housing a new Madison Avenue entrance, a large piazza space, gallery space and a reading room. In addition, the intricate design called for the restoration and preservation of the library’s existing complex, which includes the 1906 Charles McKim Building, the 1928 Annex and a 19th Century property that once served as the Morgan family residence. Each of these three buildings were NYC Landmarks.

In addition to meeting rigorous landmark regulations, Sciame devised innovative solutions to overcome the challenges of a confined construction site located atop solid bedrock in the midst of one of Manhattan’s prominent residential districts, Murray Hill. Most challenging was the creation of the foundation 50’ below grade situated adjacent to the landmarked properties. Underpinning and rock anchors were required throughout. The team also extensively restored the exteriors of three historic facades. For the Morgan residence building contractors performed a complete exterior brownstone restoration. For the McKim building new stone was installed with a lead joint system, a system rarely used, if at all, since the early part of the 20th century. For the Annex building, new stone was installed including carving as per original details.