Magnusson Architecture and Planning completes 205-unit renovation of Selis Manor

Manhattan, NY Magnusson Architecture and Planning (MAP) has completed Selis Manor, a tenant-in-place renovation of a 205-unit special needs apartment building serving a population that is blind and physically disabled. The subject is located at 135 West 23^rd St. between 6^th and 7^th Ave.

Associated Blind Housing Development Fund Co., Inc. is the owner/developer and building manager. The contractor was Procida Construction Corp. 

Located in the borough’s Chelsea neighborhood, the building consists of studio, one- and two-bedroom units, as well as amenities such as a laundry room, multi-purpose room, and two types of outdoor spaces. It also hosts program space for Visions, an organization that provides services for the blind and visually impaired.

To increase sustainability, new MEP systems were installed, sunshades were added to the façade, kitchen appliances were replaced with energy efficient models and bathroom fixtures were replaced to ensure water conservation. Apartments were also given new finishes and layouts to improve livability.

“We were honored to work with Associated Blind and Visions and extremely pleased to be a part of a project that delivered fully renovated and comfortable apartments, greater energy efficiency and air quality, improved circulation, and more beautiful and functional shared spaces,” said Sara Bayer, associate principal and director of sustainability. “We hope that these measures improve the day to day lives of all who use them.”

To enhance service capacity, the first floor was redesigned, alleviating the traffic in and out of the main entrance and maintaining security for both residents and visitors. This new scheme saw the creation of separate entrances for residents and clients of the service center, as well as the reconfiguring of housing management offices (including a large meeting room) and the Visions Community Facility offices and classrooms. 

The addition of a new open stair and elevator between the first floor and the service activities in the cellar further aids circulation; and a new material lift to bring trash directly out to the street, enabled a restoration of the courtyard.