School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)
Over several years, Marble Fairbanks completed three renovations within Columbia University’s International Affairs Building, home to the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA). Together, the projects addressed different aspects of academic life, from large lectures and student services to faculty research and public programming.
Location
New York, NY
Client
Columbia University
Altschul Auditorium
Altschul Auditorium was renovated as a 400-seat teaching and event space and served as a prototype for Columbia’s broader program of multimedia classroom upgrades. The design sought to create an intimate teaching environment within a large auditorium, using computer-modeled acoustics, a curved ceiling, and digitally fabricated perforated wall panels to distribute sound evenly while minimizing the need for amplification.
Year
1999
Size
4,500 sqft
MFA Design Team
Scott Marble, Karen Fairbanks, Todd Rouhe, Scott Paterson
MEP Engineer
Arup
Acoustical Engineer
Arup Acoustics
General Contractor
E.W. Howell
CNC Acoustical Panels
Peterson, Geller, Spurge
Photography
Eduard Hueber / Arch Photo, Inc.
Career Services
Career Services transformed 1,800 square feet of offices along one of SIPA’s busiest corridors into a welcoming resource for students. A system of transparent and translucent acoustic glazing brings daylight into the offices while balancing visibility and privacy. Layered interior windows extend views and light into spaces farther from the building’s exterior.
Year
2003
Size
1,800 sqft
MFA Design Team
Scott Marble, Karen Fairbanks, Jake Nishimura, Stacey Jacovini
Metal Fabrication
Product & Design
General Contractor
Ideal Interiors
Photography
Gregory Goode Photography
The Harriman Institute
The Harriman Institute, a center for research on Russia, Eurasia, and Eastern Europe, required spaces for faculty, fellows, students, and public programs. The 4,000-square-foot renovation introduced a gallery, lounge, reception area, and meeting spaces. A custom exhibition system integrated into the surrounding office walls supports changing displays, while white and blue glass clerestories bring daylight into the central gathering area. The renovation helped establish the Institute’s ongoing exhibition program.
Year
2004
Size
4,000 sqft
MFA Design Team
Scott Marble, Karen Fairbanks, Jake Nishimura, Stacy Jacovini
General Contractor
Ideal Interiors
