NYCHA | Isaac Houses Brooklyn
Client
New York City Housing Authority
Architect
Raman & Oundjian Engineers & Architects P.C.
Completion
2021
Critical Capital Repairs and Modernization
Situated on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the Isaacs Houses project was a major resilience and infrastructure upgrade funded through the New York City Housing Authority’s Recovery and Resilience Program. This initiative was designed to protect public housing developments from the increasing risks of climate change, particularly coastal flooding and prolonged power outages.
The project
At the core of the project are two newly constructed MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) annex buildings, strategically elevated above FEMA-designated flood levels to safeguard critical building systems. These annexes are engineered to serve the entire Isaacs Houses complex and are equipped with full-capacity backup power generators, high-efficiency ventilation fans, electric unit heaters, upgraded electrical distribution systems, and automatic transfer switches. Thus, ensuring seamless transition to emergency power when needed.
The development
Built on drilled caisson piles for enhanced stability and flood resistance, the new annex structures feature robust steel frames and insulated metal panel enclosures, offering both durability and energy efficiency.
The project also includes comprehensive modernization of existing MEP systems throughout the development, including the installation of a new instantaneous hot water heater, housed in a fully waterproofed underground vault. This entails a strategic solution that maximizes reliability while protecting against water intrusion.
To support the enhanced infrastructure, the site underwent extensive upgrades to its underground electrical wiring network, along with full replacement of exterior lighting for increased visibility and safety. Finally, resurfacing site pavements and the on-site parking lot completed the transformation, improving both function and aesthetics across the campus.
The result
With these critical improvements, Isaacs Houses is now positioned to deliver safer, more resilient living conditions for its residents, while prepared to weather the storms of tomorrow and ensure comfort and continuity every day.
