“With time and patience, the project team begins to function as a unit with a universal appreciation for the building’s past and excitement for the possibilities of its evolution.”
— Katherine Malishewsky, Director of Preservation at MBB Architects for Madame Architect
Trinity Wall Street Revitalization
Location
New York, New York
Owner
Trinity Church Wall Street
Team
Acoustics - Threshold
Architect - Murphy Burnham & Buttrick Architects
Organ Builders - Glatter-Götz
Size
18,000 square feet
Schedule
Opened 2021
Music is both a tradition and a ministry at Trinity Church Wall Street.The church was badly damaged by the attacks on 9/11, and the organs were deemed to be damaged beyond repair. Through this tragedy a larger, necessary restoration project rose to the benefit of worshipers and lower Manhattan. The nave now houses two new organs, and the chapel features a third. Renovations to the choir room and sacristy provide better use of space, and accessibility in the nave is greatly improved. Threshold assisted Trinity Church with the church's restoration through consulting on noise control and restoration of finishes to improve worship service, organ and choral performance, and recording.
Trinity’s pews were originally constructed on large, raised platforms, which had to be removed to make the space more accessible. A new air supply system had to be devised to supply air without using those platforms. Threshold worked with the design team to deploy creative solutions while maintaining original woodwork and notably improving background noise while utilizing existing equipment.
In addition, a full restoration of the choir room brought the space up to energy code with increased flexibility. Designed for up to 80 people, including their world-renowned Choir, the room now has better capability for rehearsals for Trinity’s ensembles but also in accommodating visiting choirs and music artists.
The New York Landmarks Conservancy awarded Trinity a prestigious Chairman’s Award in 2018.
