This five level, 670 car parking structure presented a fascinating urban design challenge. The site is located among several architecturally distinguished institutional buildings, most notably the landmark Gothic revival State University of New York headquarters. The property is flanked by I-787 and presents a significant and large ‘first face’ to the Albany skyline. The original location of the Hudson River riverbank crosses the property making it a significant archaeological site upon which old Albany was constructed.
The design places the building on a base of flat arches, empathizing with the SUNY building. Corners are anchored by solid stairwell masses. The top deck floats above the facade as a cornice supported by detailed, stepping columns. The second through fourth levels are enclosed by a terracotta screen.
