This bank branch is currently vacant and has been completely reclad in 90s era ceramic tiles. A simple structure incorporated into an existing commercial row, the building was originally identified by a facade of precast aggregate panels and a large bay of windows that looked onto the banking floor.
This diminutive building still exists but the 1968 design is obscured by a contemporary design. Originally passerby saw a law firm housed behind a facade of glass in bronzed aluminum framing and surrounded by a peripheral frame of marble facing; today one sees a plain box of concrete painted blue and housing a karaoke bar.
As noted in the original awards program, the Corona Library is a simple steel frame with the roof deck laid over bar joists. Most of what can be seen today on the exterior is part of an extensive renovation and upgrade by Gruzen Samton (also a firm which has received Queens Chamber awards). There is a minimal brick and metal facade covering and originally the entrance was recessed, but has since been filled in with a contemporary glass storefront. Gruzen Samton’s project also address modern needs such as ADA compliance and adding much-needed space with a light-filled reading room at the rear.
Yellowstone Park is built on a sloping hillside amidst the apartment buildings of Forest Hills. At the base of the hill is the playground and larger recreational areas, while more passive spaces rise above. The design of the park uses curving ramps and retaining walls throughout to break up the steep slope into more informal areas. According to Ann Butter, who worked on the park, one lawn area was designed around a singular existing tree, now gone. However many of the existing plantings such as birch and hemlock trees still remain an integral part of the park, In addition, Ms. Butter noted the involvement of prominent landscape architect Clara Coffey in the design of Yellowstone Park.
This narrow two-story residence sits on a steep bluff with the rear of the property looking out over Alley Pond Park. The front elevation is distinguished by a one story wing projecting toward the street and clad in Featherock, a natural volcanic stone. There are minimal windows visible from the street. The frame of the house is cantilevered, both the walls and floors over a reinforced poured foundation to account for the siting.