Tisch School Of The Arts - Entry and Lobby

The “Broadway block” is the common name for the entire city block between Washington Place and Waverly Place that is an assemblage of four NYU occupied buildings. The 721-725 building houses the Tisch School of the Arts administration, in addition to several department academic facilities. The main ground floor entry lobby was not efficient, and NYU wanted to install turnstiles for an improved security and student experience.

After a thorough analysis of the existing lobby and the potential entry points, we were able to determine that a new entrance location for the TSOA would allow for the introduction of the turnstiles and public safety desk while improving student flow. Our design reinterprets an existing service corridor as the new entrance for the TSOA. A gallery was introduced as part of the beautification of the entry path leading to multiple display areas found further inside the building. The existing raw ceiling received acoustical blades to dampen sound while acting as a filter from the noisy and energetic streetscape. Carefully designed gallery spaces allow for the entry process to also support student artwork and exhibits.

The removal of the existing interior elements opens the arrival area for the custom patterned Corian public safety desk, turnstiles, and wayfinding signage to welcome visitors, faculty and students alike. The project provides an open mixing chamber that interconnects multiple buildings and is reinforced by the new lighting strategy.