FRENCH EMBASSY AND CULTURAL CONSULATE

Albertine Library and Book Shop

Location: New York, NY
Size: 21,500 square feet
Project Type: Core and Shell and Interior Renovation

The Albertine Library and Book Shop is located in what was the Payne Whitney mansion, one of the few remaining imposing town houses on Fifth Avenue. Designed in the style of the high Italian Renaissance by McKim Mead & White, the house was designed for the town residence of Payne Whitney. The French Consulate selected Jeffrey Berman Architect to showcase French design, arts, culture and language in this country. JBA worked closely with Decoration Jacques Garcia Project Designer for the Albertine Library and Book Shop in the first phase of the renovation. 

Serving as the Building Architect, Jeffrey Berman Architect’s (JBA) has responsibility for the design of a phased renovation that creates space both for the Albertine Library and Bookshop and brings the building up to date, in conformance with current codes, while maintaining Landmark features and elements and supporting ongoing work and events. JBA negotiated a phased implementation with the NYC Department of Buildings tht allowed the building to remain open during construction and the French government to manage capital construction projects over several years to meet their budget restrictions. At completion the building will have new Certificate of Occupancy and public assembly permits.