Ray Harlem Trellis

As a feature amenity at Ray Harlem, the rooftop trellis defines space and provides shade for residents to enjoy one of the best views in New York City.

Beginning with a design assist in collaboration with the architect, engineer, and clients, the trellis was detailed and developed to maintain the aesthetic intent while aligning with the project budget. Stock profiles were used wherever possible with strategic use of bent sheet metal panels to create a visual presence without adding extra weight. The exaggerated 18” perimeter beam, along with a 16 foot double cantilever corner, contributes to the floating overhead mass. All steel was finished with a custom color powdercoat to match the adjacent storefront and windows, while thermally modified ash louvres provide a soft counterpoint to the structure.

The three phase install began with attaching knife-plate brackets to the 23rd floor slab edge prior to the masonry wall cladding. Primary structural beams were then connected to the brackets at one end and steel columns at the other. Waterproofing of the slab connections were carefully coordinated with the GC, especially since the columns were located within planter boxes. Once the post and beam skeleton frame was erected, prefabricated cassettes were slid into the w-section beams. The final phase was attaching the notched and slotted wood slats with a concealed fastener. The design maximized shop fabrication and mechanical connections to avoid hot-work (welding) on site, which led to a quick installation.

A secondary function of the trellis is to provide a growing lattice for wisteria. As the plants grow they will climb up the cables that flank each column, eventually providing shade to residents on the rooftop.