Staten Island’s historic Curtis High School – originally founded in 1904 – underwent a significant transformation through a major renovation and the construction of a new three‑story, 33,000‑square‑foot addition. As architect‑ and engineer‑of‑record, STV modernized the over 350,000‑square‑foot landmark campus while preserving the rich Collegiate Gothic architectural character that defines the school. The new addition features a state‑of‑the‑art competition gymnasium on the main level, with 11 classrooms, a graphic media room, offices and specialized support spaces on the upper floors.
What challenges did STV address?
The campus consists of six interconnected buildings of varying ages; all protected as New York City landmarks. Designing an addition that blended seamlessly with this historic fabric required close collaboration with the New York City School Construction Authority and the New York State Historic Preservation Office. Limited space, steep site conditions, and proximity to a 20‑foot‑high concrete retaining wall added considerable structural challenges, requiring careful engineering and construction planning.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV developed a contextual architectural design that honors the school’s historic character while introducing modern educational and athletic facilities. The engineering team designed a complex underpinning system to stabilize the adjacent retaining wall and facilitate construction in the constrained project area. The addition is fully ADA‑compliant and meets the sustainability criteria outlined in the New York City Green Schools Guide. The project was recognized for its technical excellence with an Engineering Excellence Award from ACEC New York.
How does this project benefit Staten Island?
The addition expands learning and athletic opportunities for Curtis High School students while preserving and enhancing one of the borough’s most iconic educational assets. The modernized facilities support academic success, community activities, and the long-term vitality of a school that has served Staten Island for more than a century.
Key Stats and Accolades
- 33,000‑sf addition with gym, classrooms, and media spaces
- 11 new classrooms
- Founded in 1904; designated New York City landmark campus
- Complex underpinning engineered for steep, constrained site
- Meets New York City Green Schools sustainability requirements
- ACEC New York Engineering Excellence Award recipient
