The United Nations International School, originally built in the early 1970s along New York City’s East River, underwent a major renovation and expansion led by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM). The redesign introduced new educational and community spaces while reinforcing the school’s connection to its waterfront setting and supporting a collaborative learning environment.
United Nations International School
Architect
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill
Photographer
Lawrence Anderson
Renovating a School for Collaboration and Community
Maximizing East River Views with Flexible Glass Walls
The first-floor redesign aimed to capitalize on sweeping views of the East River by opening the cafeteria to the outdoors and allowing the space to serve as a function hall after school hours. To achieve this vision, the design team required a curved, highly transparent glass wall that could disappear completely when open while preserving unobstructed views.
A Custom Solution for Transparency and Performance
NanaWall was selected for its ability to combine minimalist aesthetics, acoustic performance, and extensive customization. The curved opening glass wall slides neatly out of sight, transforming the cafeteria into an open lobby while maintaining the transparency and architectural elegance envisioned by the design team.
“We specified NanaWall because of the high quality, durability and minimalist appearance of the system.”
Acoustic Separation for a Multifunctional Space
Beyond creating visual openness, the NanaWall system provides the sound attenuation needed for a busy school environment. When closed, it acts as an effective acoustic barrier for the cafeteria, while in the evening it opens the space for events and gatherings, demonstrating the flexibility required of modern educational facilities.
"NanaWall was up to the technical challenge of manufacturing a track and adequate seals between panels for a curved wall application,” continues Cicconi. “Now the cafeteria doubles as an open-air function space in the evening, and when closed, the exterior grade system provides the necessary acoustic barrier."
Configuration
SOM's design team specified NanaWall’s HSW60 Thermally Broken Aluminum Framed Single Track Sliding System, with 19 panels divided among two openings. The solution was a segmented application with no floor track and a unique docking bay for the panels.
What Our Customers Have to Say
St. Bonaventure Catholic School
St. Bonaventure Catholic School uses NanaWall systems to transform an existing educational space into a flexible learning environment that adapts to different group sizes, activities, and instructional needs.
Centerview Elementary School
This elementary school uses NanaWall systems to create flexible spaces that adapt to diverse learning styles and teaching needs.
“The NanaWall installation has transformed a dismal, dark space into a year-round light-filled studio perfect for painting and drawing. The visual connectivity enhances both the student experience and the school’s public visibility.”
