Real Estate Weekly October 29, 2008 Aragon creating cultural center on 23rd Street

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NEW YORK, NY School of Visual Arts (SVA) will soon have a new cultural center with state-of the-att movie theater capabilities. Aragon Construction, working in conjunction with Laurence G. Jones Architects, has begun renovation on a 25,000 square foot two-screen facility for the world renowned college of art and design. The three-story site, formerly Clear view Chelsea West Cinemas, is located at 333 West 23rd Street.

The venue -- when Aragon completes construction in January -- will host film screenings and other events produced by SVA as well as lectures and cultural programs that support the educational mission of the college.

Aragon is renovating the existing basement and upgrading all of the theater's mechanical systems, fire alarms and electrical services. New screens and draperies, an up-to-date audio system and expanded stages (that can be used for performances and meetings) are also being installed. Lighting in the space is being redesigned, while the 1960s era front doors and entryway to the space are being entirely updated.

In addition, Aragon is constructing a stunning new lobby, which has been created by the renowned designer and SVA acting chairman Milton Glaser. “The existing theater lobby has been demolished, opening up a dramatic new entry space,” says Laurence Jones, the project architect.

One challenge the construction firm hurdled involved installing a new sprinkler system. To do so, Aragon had to assemble scaffolding throughout the entire building to reach the 30-foot high ceilings. The scaffold also enables other trades -- such as HVAC, stage lighting and ceiling installation -- to perform their work.

“For years, we were looking for a facility where SVA could stage public events in style, and serve as a store window for the College's various departments,” says Gene Stavis, Director of the Visual Arts Theater. “We hope to make this venue easily accessible to everyone, whether young or old, a long-time neighborhood resident or a tourist. Among other offerings, we will be showing different films that will be available for viewing by the general public.”

Stavis adds that SVA could offer programming throughout the day, as frequently as seven days a week. As for capacity, the small theater will seat approximately 280 people while the large theater will hold 480.

In what will be one of the largest noncommercial art displays in the city, the exterior facade of the building will be a changing set of graphic and sculpture art related to various aspects of the College's curriculum -- e.g. painting, photography, film, animation, computer art, alt history -- and other matters of public concern. This refurbished facade, also designed by Milton Glaser, will serve as the theater’s signature element. Current plans call for the display to be changed approximately four times a year.

The project is being funded by SVA. College officials hope the facility will serve as a cultural destination for all of New York City. SVA signed a 25-year lease for the space.

“We’re very excited about this opportunity, and look forward to creating an up-to-date and technologically advanced facility that will be a nexus of art, teaching and culture in New York,” said Alex Getelman, president and founder of Aragon Construction.