Located in Manhattan’s West Village, Westbeth Artist Housing has provided affordable living spaces for artists and their families since 1970. Originally part of an industrial complex, three buildings were transformed into residences, galleries, artist studios, and commercial spaces. One of these buildings is currently used by The New School, housing classrooms, set and costume studios, offices, and a double-height theater on the top floor.

Collado Engineering was initially brought in to assess the existing building systems and document their condition. Following this assessment, CE took on the role of Building Engineer for the complex, addressing MEP-related issues, training maintenance staff on the infrastructure, and assisting with long-term planning—such as white-boxing tenant spaces, completing occupancy surveys, and ensuring compliance with local laws.

As part of a large-scale renovation focused on energy efficiency, CE provided MEP consulting services, including re-piping the heating system and installing individual radiator controls in each apartment. Additionally, CE performed the retro-commissioning of the Building Management System (BMS).

When the complex’s domestic roof tank began failing, CE initially planned a straightforward replacement. However, further investigation revealed that converting to a booster pump system would be a more reliable and cost-effective long-term solution despite higher upfront costs.

Other projects CE has contributed to include elevator modernization, modifications to the laundry exhaust system, and the renovation of locker rooms and the marketing office. Currently, CE is advising Westbeth on Local Law 97 compliance, helping ensure deadlines are met and efforts to reduce the complex’s carbon footprint are effectively implemented.