CASE STUDY

Hudson Yards is one of the most complex construction projects that is changing the face of New York City. Opened in 2017, the 18 million sq. ft of commercial and residential spaces is quickly becoming a top destination to live, work and find entertainment. With several of the world’s largest corporations choosing to relocate their headquarters to this ultra-modern development, many believe Hudson Yards will become the new center of power in NYC. It is for this reason that SAP, a leading enterprise technology firm with over 350,000 customers in 190 countries, chose to locate its new innovation community center in the prestigious 10 Hudson Yards address occupying the top five floors.

THE CHALLENGE
The Executive Briefing Center (EBC), located on the 52nd floor, is a sophisticated space designed to accelerate high level engagement and discussion between SAP and client executives. Creating a “wow” experience when customers arrive is very important to set the host company apart from its competitors. During an EBC session, SAP executives first meet with customers for a series of lively experiential audio-visual presentations then relocate to the other side of the room for quiet, confidential, strategic discussions. It was necessary that the partitions be aesthetically pleasing in addition to offering a high level of sound control.

THE SOLUTION:
HLW International Architects gave SAP’s Executive Briefing Center the form, functionality and acoustic control it required by specifiying the Skyfold Classic 60 retractable vertical partition and the Modernfold Acousti-Seal Encore Single Panel operable partition.

With the push of a button, the 24’ ft. wide x 10.25’ ft. high Skyfold Classic retractable vertical partition, requiring no wall or floor tracks, quietly drops from its flush ceiling mount. The Skyfold provides an elegant design while respecting privacy and confidentiality with a state-of-the-art acoustic value of 60 STC.

The Modernfold Encore partition forms a unique “L” shaped wall that not only adjoins the eastward facing floor to ceiling windows, but it also effortlessly creates a 60’ ft. x 20’ ft. conference room. The distinctive layout allows the Skyfold to be laid perpendicular to the Encore partitions dividing the space into two smaller meeting rooms while still preserving its acoustic value.

“The Skyfold Classic and Modernfold Encore partitions applied with COM fabric perform exceptionally well and maintains the STC ratings of 60 and 56, respectively.” stated Frank D’Ambrosio of JRM Construction Management. The combination of form, functionality and technological sophistication made the Skyfold Classic 60 and the Modernfold Encore an excellent choice for SAP’s New York Executive Briefing Center. When the walls are retracted, the executive meeting space quickly and easily opens to an expansive space taking advantage of the stunning views of Manhattan overlooking Madison Square Garden, the Empire State Building and the East River.

SAP truly accomplished the “wow” factor in keeping with their innovative and forward-thinking philosophy. With workplace design taking center stage in attracting and retaining top talent, it’s easy to see why SAP was awarded 2018 “Best Places to Work” worldwide, and is continuously expanding their presence in new and exciting places.