UNITED NATIONS CAPITAL MASTER PLAN
WITH EYP (IN PART)
Following a conditions assessment in 1998, the United Nations determined the need for a major Capital Improvements project.
The stated goals of the UN Capital Master Plan were:
•Bring the facility into compliance with local codes and standards
•Replace deteriorated building components and systems
•Preserve the architectural integrity and original design intent of this landmark complex
•Enable the complex to be operated in accordance with current principles of energy conservation, sustainability and efficiency
•Create a dignified, accessible and appropriate environment for the work of the Organization
The resulting project was divided into several components, and EYP was awarded the Conference and General Assembly Buildings.
CONFERENCE BUILDING
While the primary focus of the master plan was the systems and code upgrades, preservation and adaptation of the character defining rooms and spaces of the Conference Building were equally important. To that end, the three Council chambers (ECOSOC, Trusteeship and Security) were restored and adapted to current function through partial gifts from the original donor nations (Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, respectively).
The renovation of the Trusteeship Council Chamber recreated the original horseshoe seating arrangement, expanding it to allow for full membership meetings. The original carpet was recreated, as was the drapery and the original delegate chair was adapted to allow for closer seating at the delegate tables. Ceiling and wall elements were restored. To a somewhat lesser extent both the ECOSOC and Security Council Chambers were restored to their earlier conditions.
For security reasons the lower two floors of the Conference Building were reorganized, with a reorientation and redesign of the three large conference rooms and the relocation of the UN broadcast facility.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY BUILDING
Above the basement levels, the General Assembly Building consists of lobbies, balconies and the Plenary Hall. All of the public spaces were restored, and the Plenary Hall was restored and somewhat modified to accommodate additional member states and observers. All the delegate tables were restored (or made new) by the woodworking company that had built them starting in 1951.
As was the case throughout the UNHQ, new audio, video and interpretation equipment was installed, and the mechanical systems upgraded.
The large Conference Room 4, on the first basement level, was refitted so that every delegate and advisor position is now accessible, as are about half of the interpreter booths, and virtually the entire campus.