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

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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.

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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.

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Access & Hours

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

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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.

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Time Needed

1 hour

Design & Structure

TessellationFoldingParametric SurfaceMinimal Surface
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Computational Process

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

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Materiality

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

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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.