Construction may not be visible yet, but work is certainly underway on our new home – The CNY Philanthropy Center! Our project managers and architects recently completed a fact-finding mission that enabled them to identify the project’s scope. Carpets were peeled away, paint was chipped off and elevators were tested. After extensive interviews with our staff, the board and inspectors, the architects presented plans for the best use of the building’s interior and exterior, taking into consideration the need for both efficient office space as well as a welcoming community gathering place.
Going "green" will be a key focus of the renovation project. The designers have been tasked by our board to incorporate environmental-friendly elements into their plans wherever possible. To recognize sustainable design, the U.S. Green Building Council created a rating system called Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). Our renovation plan will take steps, such as using recycled building materials and opening up spaces to take advantage of natural light, that ensure environmental efficiency. Our goal is to secure LEED certification for our new home. Before the ground-breaking in May, the winter months will be filled with extensive design development, site visits, surveying, scheduling and the hiring of contractors. When all of the hard work is complete, our vision as a sustainable and lasting steward of our community’s philanthropic goals will be represented by our permanent, welcoming and "green" home.
We invite you to follow the renovation’s progress by visiting our CNY Philanthropy Center construction blog at www.cnycf.org/blog.