This project aims to transform lives and build communities through the expressive, educational and therapeutic powers of music. The client's project goals include continuing the mission of community outreach and brand identity, expand student outreach beyond the New York area, improve inclusion and accessibility for all, and provide increase flexibility of space utilization.

Located within a Brooklyn New York historic district, we were charge to both renovate the existing brick and terracotta building on the site and provide a new state-of-the-art 3 story addition to be located in the existing garden to the west. Design goals include redefining the street edge of the addition to contribute to a new experience along the streetscape with the new addition as backdrop. Provide a new double height entry lobby between the old and new portions of the building that celebrates the mission of the school and it's inclusivity motto.

To help further anchor and connect the old to the new, the overall building profile of the addition has chamfered edges that ease the corner transitions. Set within the garden and pathways surrounding it, this simple form complements the existing mansion while clearly defining a new modern addition distinct from it. A total of 24 music teaching classrooms/studios of varying sizes are distributed through the complex, connecting renovated studios with state of the art music teaching classroom. A new rooftop terrace anchors the project and allows for both outdoor teaching areas and social gathering for the community and guests alike.