The Harper NYC, located in the Yorkville neighborhood on the Upper East Side, one of New York's most prestigious neighborhoods, is characterized by its modern design and façade applications requiring advanced engineering. This 21-story residential project consists of 69 apartments and commercial spaces. Fibrobeton has undertaken the facade cladding of the project and contributed to the architectural vision of the project with innovative design and engineering solutions.
The project was designed by ODA Architecture and developed by Izaki Group Investments. Executed under Hunter Roberts Construction Group as general contractor, the project required attentive architectural and engineering coordination, particularly due to its location directly across from the 86th Street subway station.
GRC elements, mounted on glass panel systems (unitized panel) were used in the facade design. In the project, 1,240 panels with acid etched surfaces, created with specially selected aggregates, were produced covering a total area of 3,400 m2. One of the most striking elements of the project is the dark beige rustic surfaces, used in the facade design, creating a dynamic and expressive form, especially on the façade facing 86th Street.
Dozens of test samples were produced in the factory and submitted to the architectural office for approval to ensure that each panel has a homogeneous surface texture. During this process, Fibrobeton's technical teams were specially trained and project-specific production methods were developed. Details requiring seamless transitions and sharp edges were produced with custom-made molds specially designed for the project, ensuring the implementation of the architectural design.
The façade elements, designed in accordance with the harsh climatic conditions of New York, were subjected to engineering calculations to withstand wind loads 2-3 times higher than in Turkey. In this context, embedded anchoring systems were used to securely attach the panels to the facade panels. Panel thicknesses ranged from 30 to 50 mm, and the connection system was developed using ribbed GRC panels with specially engineered anchoring systems.
Throughout the production process, Metal Yapı and Fibrobeton’s technical teams worked in close coordination to attentively develop the panelization, scaling, and installation details necessary to integrate the panels with the aluminium façade system. Stair-like panels, designed specifically for the façade, were acid-etched along their side returns to maintain surface homogeneity.
During the transportation process, the dimensions of the panels were optimized in accordance with the architectural requirements, reduced to portable dimensions and shipped in containers. In this process, thanks to the close cooperation with the architectural team for the exact implementation of the design, all details of the project were implemented precisely as planned.
The Harper NYC has become one of the pioneering projects that combine durability, aesthetics, and functionality, using FIBROSTONE® brand acid-etched finish panels.This project has made a significant contribution to New York’s modern urban landscape, showcasing Fibrobeton’s expertise in high-quality surface production, special material development, and advanced engineering solutions.
Our collaboration with ODA Architecture continues with the Post Office Rotterdam project. In this project, extensive R&D and application works have been developed on the application of special natural stone texture on curved surfaces as well.