New York State Equal Rights Heritage Center
TYLin provided structural engineering services for this new cultural center in Auburn, New York.
Located within a historic downtown district among several state landmarks, this new structure is the first new municipal building in Auburn in 40 years. The building’s three distinct yet interconnected volumes have varied plan orientations and roof slopes. Two of the volumes contain exhibition spaces and a gift shop; the third houses administrative functions.
During schematic design, TYLin explored the possibility of using either perimeter steel columns or perimeter concrete walls to support the long-span glulam roof beams. The eventual selection of concrete walls with large window openings and poured-in-place lintel beams allows the structure to be aesthetically incorporated into the overall building design and eliminates the need for interior finishes. TYLin used wood stud walls at the interior to help support the glulam beams. The sloped roof, composed of tongue and groove wood decking that is exposed on the interior, contrasts with the exposed concrete walls.
Image credit: James Ewing/JBSA