New York, NY
ABC No Rio is an internationally known, collectively run center for art and activism, and a venue for oppositional culture that seeks to facilitate cross-pollination between artists and activists. ABC No Rio was founded in 1980 by visual artists committed to political and social engagement, a place where people share resources and ideas to impact society, culture, and community in an atmosphere of mutual support.
Paul Castrucci Architects is designing ABC No Rio's new four-story building at 156 Rivington Street—the original site of the organization. Set to open in 2026, the new building is being designed to meet LEED Silver and Passive House Certification Requirements and is estimated to be approximately 33 percent more efficient than the current NYC Energy Code. A 2025 FCI Implementation Grant supported a new green roof that plays a key role in reducing energy consumption by providing natural insulation and cooling over the course of the year, while other features include the significant reduction of stormwater runoff and increased biodiversity in the local community.
A 2026 FCI Implementation Grant will support a rooftop solar array installation. The system is expected to reduce net annual energy use by approximately 90 percent relative to a code-compliant baseline and offset $25,000–30,000 in annual energy costs, completing a fully integrated climate strategy for one of the Lower East Side's most beloved cultural institutions.