Center for Architecture

New York, NY

The Center for Architecture (CFA), open to the public since October 2003 is the American Institute of Architect (AIA)’s first-ever cultural institution, which engages local and international audiences with the value, impact, and wonder of architecture.

Located in Greenwich Village, CFA is in an eight-story, 100-year-old building that was converted from industrial use in 1980. Situated on the ground and basement levels of a mixed-use co-op, CFA's 1,500-square-foot, multi-use venue incorporates exhibition galleries, meeting, conference, and learning space, and office and administrative spaces. In 2023, CFA celebrated its 20th anniversary and launched development of a 2025 Strategic Plan, which set out clear initiatives for long term sustainability. This includes planning to comply with NYC Local Law 97 which mandates buildings over 25,000 square feet meet emissions thresholds starting in 2024, with stricter standards in 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2050. 

FCI funding will support  an ASHRAE Level II energy audit, lighting system audit, and engineering survey of single-pane windows. Resulting upgrades have the potential to halve CFA’s energy use by making critical energy-related improvements including an LED lighting retrofit and installation of thermally efficient glazing to the building’s rear facade. Savings from utility costs will be directed towards CFA's core mission of free of charge exhibitions, K–12 arts education, and public programs.

Milestones

• LED lighting retrofit

• Installation of thermally efficient glazing

• Improve staff and visitor comfort

• Enhance CFA’s technical ability to present engaging exhibitions and public programs