Columbia University ADA Study
New York, NY
Li · Saltzman Architects was retained by Columbia University to undertake a Barrier-Free Entry Access Study of six academic and administrative buildings on the Morningside Heights campus that were all part of the original McKim, Mead & White master plan for the campus. Built between 1897 and 1925, five of the structures: Fayerweather Hall, Havemeyer Hall, Mathematics Hall, Philosophy Hall, and Chandler Hall, were designed by McKim, Mead & White. The sixth, Lewisohn Hall, conformed to the master plan but was designed by Arnold Brunner. Together, the buildings enframe Low Library and form four smaller quadrangles on the main campus.
The study placed emphasis on identifying one or more options that would provide barrier-free access at the main campus entrance to each building. Because of the significance of the historic fabric at these locations, alternate options were provided either adjacent to the main entrance or at a secondary elevation. Recommended solutions included the addition of exterior ramps, reconfiguring exterior stairs and landings, reconfiguring interior stairs and vestibules, and installing interior or exterior lifts.
