W. Lerman Architecture redesigns 145,600 s/f AST building in Brooklyn

Built in the late 1940s post-war era as an industrial building, 6201 15th Ave. has evolved over the years into an office building, currently owned by American Stock Transfer & Trust Co. (AST) and serving as the firm's operations center. A major overhaul of the 145,600 s/f asset is underway, and W. Lerman Architecture is providing the design for the top-to-bottom project. The project cost was not disclosed. "Besides a general modernization, the building will be redeveloped, at AST's request, with the substantial integration of sustainable and green products and systems," said Wayne Lerman, president of the full-service architectural and design firm, based in West Long Branch, N.J. "Those elements are a very important part of everything we do, and 6201 15th Ave. is a prime example of what can be done to bring older buildings into the 21st Century." Interior and exterior work on the four-story building is expected to be fully completed by the fourth quarter of this year. The design direction for the project incorporates state-of-the-art energy management, lighting, heating and cooling systems, as well as friendly task-oriented furniture for employees. The finished product will utilize natural light and interior finishes designed to create a pleasant and efficient workplace environment. AST, which occupies the majority of the building's space, is currently in an expansion mode. "Based on the new corporate direction, we will be redesigning the building's exterior façade to conform to AST's new brand identity," Lerman said. The exterior will feature a new main entrance, new surface materials including granite, and all-new window systems. Inside, the building's floors will be redesigned with new office layouts, as well as furniture and finishes that tie in with AST's new look. The building's age has provided a number of challenges for the design team, including adapting all improvements to current building codes and ordinances. At the same time, the building will continue to be fully occupied throughout the process, requiring that AST and its employees remain fully functional throughout the project. "At the end of the day, the final result will convey a new state-of-the-art corporate facility that blends the newest technology, energy efficiencies, employee comfort, and sustainability," Lerman said. John Torres, AST senior VP, operations, said, "Wayne has been a great partner for the Brooklyn project. He listens and immediately grasps our business needs, being cost conscious while accentuating architecture and design. He's able to incorporate the existing structure of our building, but also meet the challenge of being an appropriate fit for the neighborhood in which we're located." ­th Avenue - Brooklyn, NY