Davidge Mansion Building Tour and Presentation of the Sachs Conservatory

31 Front Street,Binghamton NY 13905

19 July, 2022

Description

Schedule: 5:30-6:30 pm Part 1 Davidge Mansion / Chianis + Anderson Office Renovation Tour 1LU HSW6:30 pm Dinner and and beverages provided7:00-8:00 pm Part 2 Sachs Therapeutic Conservatory Project presentation 1LU HSWTicket Pricing: AIA Members: $15.00AIA Associate Members: $10.00Students: freeNon-members: $20.00PART 1 - Davidge Mansion Building Tour (1 LU HSW) This 3-story Neo-Classical style mansion is located on the west side of Binghamton and is a local landmark. It has been in continuous use since 1904. Initially constructed as a home for Sherwood B and Ella A Davidge. In 1923 the building was acquired by St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and a 3 story convent and teaching center (annex) addition was built in 1928. The building was designed by Binghamton architect Sanford O. Lacey who is attributed to many structures in the Binghamton area including the Binghamton Public Library, a Carnegie Library. Sanford’s most memorable acclaim is for completing the New York State Capitol building in Albany with Isaac Perry. The building was purchased by Chianis + Anderson Architects, PLLC in 2020. The community overwhelming supported this reuse as the building was initially targeted by developers to utilize it for student housing. The project is eligible for listing on the State and National Register. Chianis + Anderson Architects is working with the Historic Preservation Officer at the City of Binghamton to further protect this important historical edifice. The building houses the firm’s staff of 18 and has 2 lease spaces on the first and second floor of the annex. During this tour, Architect and Partner, Jeffery Smith will summarize the structure and its unique architectural features. He will review the challenges with maintaining the structures historical integrity and characteristics while adapting the facility for modern use and safety regulations, including working in a pandemic world. The tour will include a walk through of the spaces with a narration on pre- and post-occupancy conditions. The Architect will also explain the process of applying for and obtaining a listing on the State and National Register of Historic Places. Learning Objectives: Summarize the buildings history and architectural features Identify key considerations for adapting and reusing an existing building Discuss the benefits of such a project on the neighborhood and greater urban environment Highlight the process of engaging municipal assistance and jointly working towards protecting and preserving a historic structure PART 2 - Project Presentation: Sachs Therapeutic Conservatory (1LU HSW) The Alice and Herbert Sachs Therapeutic Conservatory is an integral part of the MossRehab facilities at the Einstein Medical Center Elkins Park hospital. The project was generously funded by a patient's family who realized that the Philadelphia area was lacking an adequate facility. During this presentation, architect Jeffery T. Smith of Chianis + Anderson Architects, will talk about the visioning process- facility tours and master planning - and how the outcomes from that process impacted the final design of the structure. The architect will briefly discuss the history of glass houses, how this glass house was adapted for human occupancy, distinct features of the building that support sustainability, rehabilitation and overall wellness of occupants. Also, key challenges of the project that include life safety, egress and accessibility will be discussed and solutions that are integrated into the final project will be demonstrated. A guest speaker, therapist and team leader Anne Wieland, CTRS, MHA, will summarize horticultural therapy and the impact that the conservatory has had on patient outcomes, staff satisfaction and guests and family. After attending this program, participants will be able to: Discuss the history of glass house buildings. Illustrate the path of research taken to design a modern day structure utilizing a utilitarian envelope for a safe and accessible occupancy Discuss the functionality of a such a structure in a healthcare setting Identify the health benefits of horticultural therapy and how the building typology contributes to patient recovery and family and staff well being