41 Cooper Square

Thom Mayne · 2009

41 Cooper Square
Editor's Pick

A high-performance vertical piazza wrapped in a breathing steel skin that redefines the academic lab for the 21st century.

Major PracticeEditor's Pick
Architect
Thom Mayne
Year
2009
Coordinates
40.7285°, -73.9903°
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Visitor Guide

Visitor Tip

The grand stair only goes to the fourth floor to encourage walking and interaction. Look up to see the sky-lit atrium reaching the full 11-story height.

Best Photo Spot

The intersection of 3rd Ave and 7th St. The corner entry 'lifts up' in a deferential gesture towards the historic Foundation Building across the street.

Access & Hours

Institutional building. 41 Cooper Gallery and the Frederick P. Rose Auditorium host public events. Student labs are restricted.

Insider Note

The stainless steel panels have an 'angel hair' finish. The perforation holes (1/8-inch) cover 50-90% of the surface to reduce glare while maintaining a 50% reduction in heat load.

Time Needed

1 hour

Design & Structure

TessellationFoldingParametric SurfaceMinimal Surface
Computational Process

Digitally integrated design brought project players together early. Computer-modeled components were sent directly to manufacturers for shop drawing checks.

Materiality

Perforated 304 stainless steel and off-the-shelf window wall systems. The double wall system kept costs to 10% of the overall budget.

Structural Innovation

Achieved NYC's first LEED Platinum for an institutional building. It uses radiant heating/cooling ceiling panels and a cogeneration plant.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed 41 Cooper Square?+

41 Cooper Square was designed by Thom Mayne and completed in 2009.

When was 41 Cooper Square built?+

41 Cooper Square was completed in 2009. It was designed by Thom Mayne.

Can I visit 41 Cooper Square?+

41 Cooper Square is a real building in the world that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.