744 Madision Avenue

Location: 744 - 748 Madison Avenue Next Project →
Architect: Page Ayres Cowley Architects

ICS Builders, Inc. were retained as General Contractors for the second phase of construction at 744 Madison Avenue, Manhattan. The initial phase of the project; demolition of the site’s original structure required the retention of the building’s distinctive façade. This façade, a testament to the Federal Revival Style architecture of the 1800’s is landmarked by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission. At the conclusion of the projects’ initial phase the two story facade remained freestanding from the original structure and secured in place by temporary steel supports.

The second phase of the project for which ICS Builders, Inc. was responsible consisted of the ground up construction of a new structure including a new basement and four new stories - whilst retaining and refurbishing the site’s aforementioned façade, matching the distinctive appearance and tone associated with the architecture of the 1800’s.

The project, consisting of 33,000 square feet of core and shell retail space had an aggressive schedule of nine months. Unique facets of the project included replicating the storefront trim to simulate the original profiles. In the exterior restoration process six cast iron columns were cleaned and refinished - custom light fixtures were fabricated and installed, and replicated cornice and entrance pediments were also incorporated along with cast iron fascia panels. Existing marble arches and bases had to be cleaned – patched and honed. Custom elements were installed including skylights, custom mahogany arched entranceways, and a distinctive patterned tile was fitted throughout the lobby.

The nature of the project was not without challenges; ground up construction on a busy Manhattan thoroughfare with limited site accessibility, an aggressive schedule and the challenge of maintaining and incorporating a freestanding landmarked façade played a significant role in the project’s execution. In spite of these apparent challenges however ICS’ Team met the tenant occupancy deadlines.

Today the site serves as the home to some of Manhattan’s most prestigious retail brands. Furthermore due to the foresight of project engineers and the use of large capacity plate girders and shear walls the structure is in a position that it will be able to facilitate a future expansion of an additional fifteen stories.